Government Assistance Eligibility Specialist , Grade 17

Overview

“Please note The salary range above represents this position’s earning potential. The anticipated hiring range for this position will be $59,897 to $66,754, based on the candidate’s qualifications and experience.”

MONTGOMERY COUNTY Government – Government Assistance Eligibility Specialist I (GAES I), Grade 17, Multiple Positions

Montgomery County is located adjacent to Washington, D.C., with over one million residents. It is the most populous and one of the most diverse counties in Maryland, containing many major U.S. government offices, scientific research and learning centers, and business campuses.

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is responsible for delivering the County’s public health and human services, with more than 120 programs at more than 20 locations. With over 2,000 employees, it is the largest County Department.

HHS strives to ensure fair opportunities for residents to reach their fullest potential, including access to housing, transportation, education, employment, health care, safe neighborhoods, and healthy food. HHS provides critical services for residents facing obstacles in achieving their potential and plays an essential role in building a healthy and strong community.

HHS, Office of Eligibility and Support Services (OESS), is recruiting for GAES I to work in the units and programs outlined below. The GAES I will work at the entry-developmental level in determining eligibility for County residents for programs that assist individuals, families, children, seniors, and people with disabilities needing financial and/or medical assistance and other support services.

The GAES I will receive formal and on-the-job training in income assistance eligibility procedures while performing duties of limited scope to introduce them to the field. They will receive assignments of gradually increasing complexity until they become proficient in all aspects of eligibility determination and interpersonal relations.

The GAES I works with applicants, their families, and/or their representatives; professional social service and related staff within the department;
State and Federal agencies, other counties, community social service agencies, and service providers to obtain or verify information, resolve problems, coordinate actions regarding eligibility determinations, or refer people and cases to other service units or agencies. After successfully completing several training cohorts, a GAES I will work under the direct supervision of a unit supervisor. Work is subject to County, State, and Federal guidelines and regulations.

Incumbents work in an environment that values quality customer service and treats all populations with respect and dignity. Positions may require flexible work hours to provide service at various locations throughout Montgomery County and through teleworking. These positions may also represent HHS at enrollment events or community outreach events, which could require an adjusted work week to cover weekends or evenings.

Program Areas:

Family Investment/Income Supports determines initial and ongoing eligibility for Income Support Programs, including Temporary Cash Assistance, Temporary Disability Assistance Program, SNAP (formerly food stamps), Public Assistance to Adults, and Medical Assistance; conducts and completes initial interviews, processes cases, authorizes benefits, makes necessary referrals to other services and programs, and maintains an ongoing caseload to meet all established requirements.

Child Care Subsidy (Working Parents Assistance) Program: determines initial and ongoing eligibility for the Working Parents’ Assistance Program.

Maryland Health Connection and County Health Services
: determines initial and ongoing eligibility for various healthcare programs.

Medical Assistance (Long-term Care): covers a portion of the cost of care in long-term care facilities for aged, blind, or disabled persons whose income is insufficient to meet the entire cost. Other medical services are also covered. The position requires an understanding of financial statements.

The selected candidates must successfully complete a medical…