Eligibility Specialist I

Eligibility Specialist I

Salary

$46,779.20 - $56,846.40 Annually

Location

Various locations throughout the County, CA

Job Type

Full-time Permanent

Job Number

26.286

Department

Social Services

Opening Date

09/25/2026

Closing Date

10/18/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

The Position

The current vacancy is in Fort Bragg.

The list developed from this recruitment will be used for a limited period to fill open and promotional, regular full-time, and part-time positions throughout the County, should they occur. Pursuant to current bargaining unit agreements, employees regularly assigned to the coastal region or in Covelo are eligible to receive a 5% assignment premium.

Under close supervision, Eligibility Specialist I determines the eligibility of applicants and recipients for public assistance programs through interactive interviewing and fact gathering; processes casework through automated systems; makes appropriate referrals for health, social, and/or employment services; and performs related work as required. Eligibility Specialists are expected to handle a high volume of deadline driven tasks, and have the ability to prioritize, plan and project their work, while remaining flexible to changing priorities.

Bilingual English/Spanish encouraged to apply. Se buscan personas bilingües en inglés y español. Para recibir una solicitud en español, llame a Recursos Humanos al 234-6600.

Job Requirements and Minimum Qualifications

Duties may include but are not limited to the following:

• Performs interactive interviews to elicit eligibility information, obtain and/or verify financial, employment, tax and personal demographic information and determine eligibility for public assistance programs and services.
• Analyzes financial and eligibility information to determine initial or continuing eligibility for multiple aid programs.
• Reconciles data through multiple data systems, ensuring all data is matched.
• Explains regulations, rules, and policies to clients and apprises them of their rights, responsibilities, and eligibility for participation in various public assistance programs and services.
• Ensures accuracy and completion of application and declaration forms.
• Resolves discrepancies by securing documentation, medical records, and confirmation from other agencies.
• Initiates a total-household assistance case.
• Enters and retrieves numerical and narrative data, and issues benefits from an automated computer system.
• Determines the level of benefits to which the client is entitled by making complex mathematical computations and/or complex computer entries.
• Reviews and interprets information provided on a variety of forms both by the client and third parties to assist with eligibility determinations.
• Explains a variety of health insurance plan options, costs and individual plan features.
• Monitors ongoing eligibility by obtaining periodic updated information of eligibility factors and takes appropriate actions on changes.
• Determines need for additional services and makes referrals as needed for employment and other services to outside agencies; and directs clients accordingly.
• Organizes and prioritizes caseload so that necessary case records and documents are processed and updated within specific time limits established by regulation and local policy.
• Enters and maintains case records, including written narratives, forms and computer documents in a clear and readable format.
• Troubleshoots task and/or case issues to determine appropriate resolution of problems, involving Help Desk as needed; may participate in system testing and design.
• Communicates both orally and in writing with clients and others related to the initial and ongoing eligibility determination while maintaining confidentiality.
• Responds to questions and complaints of clients in person, by telephone, mail and/or email communication.
• Provides pertinent forms and pamphlets to clients as required.
• Identifies suspected fraud and makes referrals for investigation.
• Makes referrals to social service workers as needed.
• Participates in special projects, studies, work assignments, meetings, conferences and committees.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED

Education and Experience:

Pattern 1: Two (2) years of full-time experience performing clerical and/or customer service duties that include, but not limited to, data entry, filing, reception, public contact, interviewing, math computation, completion of complex forms, or eliciting information from the public; OR

Pattern 2: One (1) year of full-time experience determining eligibility for loans, financial assistance, unemployment, veterans benefits, health programs, or other benefits; OR

Pattern 3: Successful completion of sixty (60) semester or ninety (90) quarter units in any field from an accredited college or university.

Substitution: Qualifying experience or education may be combined in order to meet the above requirements. When combining education and experience, fifteen (15) semester or twenty-two and a half (22.5) quarter units may be substituted for six months of the required experience.

(Example: 15/22.5 units = 6 months 30/45 units = 1 year 45/67.5 units = 1 ½ years)

Some positions may require possession of special language and culture skills as a bona fide qualifications standard. In these cases, candidates must demonstrate that they possess the required skills.

Licenses and Certifications:

Valid Drivers License

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge of:

• General goals and purpose of public social services programs.
• Laws, rules, regulations, policies and procedures governing eligibility for diverse public assistance programs and related case administrative techniques.
• Methods and techniques of conducting an investigative interview and information gathering.
• Modern office practices, methods, and procedures.
• Computer software programs to conduct research, assess information and/or prepare documentation.
• Record keeping practices and procedures.
• Principles of mathematical calculations.
• Intricacies of health insurance plans and medical health plan options and associated terminology.
• Principles and practices of effective customer service.
• Cultural and human behavior, including knowledge of self, to interact effectively with clients and staff.
• Structure and content for the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition and grammar.
• Modern equipment and communication tools used for business functions and program, project and task coordination.

Skill in:

• Analyze and interpret written, numerical, and verbal data from various sources.
• Enter and maintain data accurately and timely into a computerized system.
• Plan and organize caseload to ensure work is completed in accordance with regulations relating to eligibility and timeliness.
• Read, understand, apply, and explain complicated and detailed correspondence and reports, regulations, and policy directives.
• Perform a variety of mathematical computations accurately and rapidly.
• Prepare clear, concise, and accurate records and reports.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, using appropriate grammar and syntax.
• Interact with people in a courteous manner in person, on the telephone, by mail or e-mail communication.
• Assess and manage difficult and hostile persons or situations; or call for intervention when appropriate.
• Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with the public and staff.

Mental and Physical Abilities:

• Apply the policies, procedures, and programs of the County Social Services branch.
• Apply the laws, rules, and regulations governing eligibility and grant determination for multiple public assistance programs and the case administration of these programs.
• Organize work, set priorities, meet critical deadlines and follow up on assignments.
• Evaluate and make appropriate recommendations and corrections on selected cases.
• Identify available resources, and communicate with others to obtain and verify information concerning eligibility.
• Use fact finding techniques and perform in-depth and interactive interviewing.
• Determine appropriate course of action in emergency situations.
• Make referrals to appropriate agencies and social service programs.
• Detect and evaluate potential fraudulent situations.
• Utilize multiple electronic information, social services systems and analyze and interpret such information.
• Navigate through computer screens and effectively use computer systems, software applications and modern business equipment to perform a variety of work tasks.
• Identify when computer output is incorrect and make corrections.
• Process cases manually as required.
• Function effectively in a system with strict deadlines and constant changes.
• Explain complex rules and programs so they can be understood by people of diverse socio-economic, cultural and educational backgrounds.
• Gather, record and correctly evaluate data, income and additional necessary information required for the determination of eligibility for one or more programs.
• Explain health insurance plan options and plan details available to clients.
• Review a variety of documents to obtain needed household filing information.
• Explain health care reform tax credit implications to clients.
• Refer clients to other community services as needed.
• Work in a fast-paced, professional office environment and prioritize a wide range of duties with varying time requirements to ensure timely completion.
• Follow written and oral directions and instructions.
• While performing the essential functions of this job, the incumbent is regularly required to: walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle or feel objects; reach with hands and arms; speak and hear; and push, pull, move or lift above and below the neck objects weighing up to 25 pounds.

Selection Procedure & Other Important Information

Important Application Information:

• It is your responsibility to demonstrate through your application materials how you meet the minimum qualifications of the position/s for which you apply.
• You must complete all sections of the application. A résumé or other information you feel will help us evaluate your qualifications may be attached to your completed application, but will not be accepted in lieu of completing any part of the application. Blank applications that contain only a résumé or those that reference "see résumé" will be rejected as incomplete.
• Check your application before submitting to ensure it is complete and correct; no new or additional information will be accepted after the closing date.
• If you are using education to meet the minimum qualifications for this classification, please submit unofficial transcripts with your application. Applicants who completed their education outside of the United States (with foreign degrees/transcripts) must provide an education evaluation. The education evaluation must state the number of units to which foreign coursework is equal. Foreign education evaluation services can be found at https://www.naces.org. This education evaluation is the responsibility of the applicant and must be submitted with the application.
• Inquiry will be made of your former and current employers; please provide the names and telephone numbers of supervisors on your application.
• You must provide the names and contact information of at least three (3) references (not relatives) that have knowledge of your job skills, experience, ability and/or character.
• Application materials are the property of Mendocino County and will not be returned.
• It is your responsibility to keep your NEOGOV profile updated, including any changes to your telephone number or address. Failure to do so may result in missed notification of exams or interviews.
• The exam process listed on this flyer is tentative. Mendocino County reserves the right to make necessary modifications to the examination plan. Such revisions will be in accordance with approved personnel standards. Should a change be made, applicants will be notified.
• The provisions of this job bulletin do not constitute an expressed or implied contract.

Examination Process: All applications and supplemental questionnaires will be reviewed, and those determined to be most qualified will move forward in the selection process; incomplete applications will not be considered. The examination will consist of a Training and Experience (T&E) Evaluation designed to assess each candidate's education, training, and experience as they relate to the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for successful job performance. Candidates will respond to a structured questionnaire, and all responses will be evaluated using pre-established, job-related rating criteria. Scores will be assigned based on the quality and relevance of the information provided. The resulting score will determine each candidate's placement on the employment list. A minimum passing score of 70% is required.

Special Testing: The County of Mendocino is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and California's Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), if special accommodations for a disability or religious conviction are necessary at any stage of the application and/or testing process, please notify the Human Resources Department in advance at (707) 234-6600. Reasonable notice is required to allow adequate time for review and evaluation of your request.

Special Requirements: Employment in some County departments or positions may require the successful completion of a pre-employment criminal background, which may include fingerprinting, and/or a medical examination, which may include drug screening.

This announcement is a synopsis of duties and requirements of this job. To review the complete classification specification and benefits, please see the HR website. Applications must be submitted to the Human Resources Department by the final filing date.

The County of Mendocino participates in the E-Verify program to confirm employment eligibility. If hired, the information you provide on your Form I-9 will be used to verify your authorization to work in the United States.

Learn more:

• E-Verify Notice of Participation (Download PDF reader)
• Right to Work (Download PDF reader)

The County of Mendocino is an Equal Opportunity Employer

This information is a summary of general benefits. Benefits listed in Mendocino County Resolutions or Memorandums of Understanding prevail over this listing. This information is not legally binding, nor does it constitute a Contract.

SALARY

Compensation is based on a five-step salary range, with annual merit-based increases within the salary range.

RETIREMENT

Covered under Social Security and the 1937 act; both employees and the County pay into the retirement fund. For the most current information regarding County Retirement please go to:

https://www.mendocinocounty.org/retirement

HOLIDAYS AND PERSONAL LEAVE

Mendocino County observes 11 paid holidays per year. Employees are granted 24 - 48 hours of personal leave annually, depending upon Bargaining Unit.

VACATION

Accrues at the rate of two weeks per year for three years. Three weeks per year after three years, four weeks after eight years and five weeks after 15 years.

SICK LEAVE

Paid sick leave accrues at the rate of 1.25 days per month, or 15 days per year. Accruals are pro-rated for part-time employees working at least 20 hours per week. Part-time employees working less than 20 hours per week, and extra-help employees receive up to 24 hours (or 3 days) of paid sick leave annually.

MEDICAL, DENTAL, VISION, AND LIFE INSURANCE

The County and the employee share the cost of an employee selected health care plan; enrollment in the plan includes $20,000 Life Insurance.

HEALTH INSURANCE

For the most current information regarding Health Insurance please go to:

http://www.mendocinocounty.org/hr/ehb

EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

For the most current information regarding Employee Assistance please go to:

http://www.mendocinocounty.org/hr/eap

EMPLOYEE WELLNESS PROGRAM

For the most current information regarding Employee Wellness please go to:

http://www.mendocinocounty.org/hr/mcwow

LABOR CONTRACTS

For the complete list of most current labor agreements please go to:

http://www.mendocinocounty.org/hr/labor

01

Eligibility Specialist I Supplemental Questionnaire The following questions are used to help determine qualifications and eligibility to continue in the recruitment process. All education and experience used to answer the supplemental questions below must also be included in the education and work history portion of your application. Responses such as "see resume" or "see application" or brief general statements will be considered incomplete. Incomplete applications may be rejected. • I have read and understand the above statement

• Yes
• No

02

ESI #1. Customer Service & Public Contact Experience (MQ Pattern 1) What is your experience performing clerical and/or customer service duties including work such as data entry, filing, reception, assisting the public, conducting interviews, performing basic math calculations, completing detailed forms, or gathering information from individuals?

• A. Less than 2 years of qualifying clerical or customer service experience, or no related experience.
• B. Some qualifying clerical or customer service experience, but less than 2 years total full-time equivalent experience.
• C. At least 2 years of full-time qualifying clerical or customer service experience.
• D. More than 2 years of full-time qualifying clerical or customer service experience with increased complexity, volume, or responsibility.

03

ESI #2. Eligibility or Benefits Determination Experience (MQ Pattern 2) What is your experience determining eligibility for benefits such as financial assistance, unemployment, healthcare, or similar programs?

• A. No experience reviewing applications or determining eligibility for benefits or assistance programs.
• B. Some experience reviewing applications or assisting with eligibility-related work, but less than 1 year of full-time experience and not responsible for final eligibility decisions.
• C. At least 1 year of full-time experience independently reviewing information and determining eligibility for benefits or assistance programs.
• D. At least 2 years of full-time experience determining eligibility for multiple programs, managing a caseload, and making independent eligibility decisions.

04

ESI #3. Education (MQ Pattern 3) What is the highest level of education you have completed?

• A. High school diploma or equivalent
• B. Some college coursework (less than 60 semester units or 90 quarter units)
• C. 60 or more semester units (or 90 quarter units)
• D. Bachelor's degree or higher

05

ESI #4. Combination of Education and Experience (MQ Substitution) Minimum qualifications may be met through a combination of education and experience. Fifteen (15) semester units (or 22.5 quarter units) may be substituted for six (6) months of qualifying experience. Select the option that best describes the total combination of qualifying education and experience:

• A. I do not meet the education or experience requirements
• B. I have a combination of some college and limited related experience, but less than the equivalent of two (2) years of full-time experience
• C. I have a combination of education and experience equivalent to at least two (2) years of qualifying experience (e.g., college coursework substituted for part of the experience requirement)
• D. I exceed the minimum qualifications through a combination of education and experience or meet them through a single qualifying pattern

06

ESI #5. Interviewing & Information Gathering (KSA) What is your experience conducting interviews to gather detailed or sensitive information from the public?

• A. No interviewing experience
• B. Basic experience gathering information, such as asking standard questions with little follow-up.
• C. Regular experience conducting structured interviews, including reviewing and verifying information as part of job duties.
• D. Extensive experience conducting in-depth or eligibility-based interviews requiring analysis and verification in a high-volume or complex setting.

07

ESI #6. Analytical & Mathematical Skills (KSA) What is your experience performing mathematical computations or analyzing financial data to determine payments, benefits, or eligibility?

• A. No experience performing mathematical calculations in a work setting.
• B. Limited experience using basic arithmetic, such as simple addition, subtraction, or checking totals.
• C. Regular experience performing financial or benefits-related calculations, such as verifying income, applying formulas, or determining amounts.
• D. Extensive experience performing complex calculations as a regular part of my job, including interpreting policies or regulations to calculate eligibility or benefits (such as reviewing multiple income sources, analyzing financial documents, or determining ongoing or partial benefit amounts).

08

ESI #7. Computer Systems & Data Entry (KSA) What is your experience using computerized systems to enter, retrieve, reconcile, or maintain records?

• A. No relevant experience
• B. Basic experience entering data into a single system with limited complexity.
• C. Moderate experience using multiple systems on a regular basis, with a strong focus on accuracy when entering, retrieving, or updating records.
• D. Advanced experience working across multiple systems, including reconciling data, resolving discrepancies, and/or troubleshooting system or record issues.

09

ESI #8. Case Management & Organization (KSA) What is your experience organizing and prioritizing a caseload or workload with strict deadlines or regulatory requirements?

• A. No experience managing workload independently.
• B. Limited responsibility for managing deadlines or prioritizing tasks.
• C. Moderate experience managing multiple cases or tasks, with responsibility for meeting established timeframes or standards.
• D. Extensive experience managing a high-volume caseload or workload, consistently meeting deadlines while maintaining accuracy and compliance.

10

ESI #9. Communication & Explaining Complex Information (KSA) What is your experience explaining complex rules, policies, or program requirements to individuals from diverse cultural, educational, or socio-economic backgrounds?

• A. No relevant experience.
• B. Limited experience explaining routine or basic information.
• C. Regular explaining detailed policies or procedures to others.
• D. Extensive experience explaining complex rules or benefits programs in a clear and understandable way, including handling difficult or sensitive interactions.

Required Question

Employer County of Mendocino

Address 501 Low Gap Road, Room 1326

Ukiah, California, 95482

Phone 707-234-6600

Website http://www.mendocinocounty.gov/hr