Eligibility Specialist

Overview

The Economic Services Division (ESD) is responsible for the administration of benefits to help Vermonters meet their basic needs. ESD is one of 6 divisions under the Department for Children and Families (DCF), which is one of the largest departments (1000 employees) within the Agency of Human Services in the state of Vermont. ESD leadership is committed to strengthening and supporting our workforce.

This position is located in the St. Albans district office.

The primary role of the Eligibility Specialist I is to determine eligibility of those who have applied for benefits and to provide timely and accurate benefits to those who meet the criteria. The Eligibility Specialist I is expected to:

• demonstrate empathy, concern, and respect for all customers
• be a critical thinker who can apply program rules to complex and dynamic situations
• thrive in a busy work environment
• be effective in assisting customers over the phone and in person (if this is a district position)
• work with individuals who may be distraught and emotional
• enjoy working on a team
• be open to learning new technology

• The potential to be reclassified to the Eligibility Specialist II (PG 23) after demonstrating an advanced level of performance
• Flex scheduling or alternative work schedules based upon policy
• 11 paid holidays, plus sick and vacation time
• Health, dental, and vision insurance for employees and their families
• Retirement plans, including a pension
• Parental leave for all new parents, including adoptions
• Collaborative environment with staff dedicated to supporting children and families

This position, Eligibility Specialist I (Job Requisition #53815), is open to all State employees and external applicants. For more information, contact Laurine Pion n. Resumes will not be accepted via e-mail; apply online to be considered. Multiple positions in the same work location may be filled from this job posting. Background checks are required per AHS policy, including criminal record checks, DMV, and abuse registry checks as applicable.

Duties are primarily performed in an office setting with travel to training and/or meetings as needed. Workload is typically heavy and requires prompt, accurate decisions. Incumbents must be organized and able to function independently while balancing priorities. Applicants may present with emotional states; the ability to remain calm and professional is essential.

Bachelor's degree in a human service or financial field, OR two (2) years or more of experience in a customer service environment that included regular use of computer programs, clerical work, and data entry.

As a State employee you are offered a great career opportunity with a total compensation package worth about 30% of your total compensation, including:

• 80% State-paid medical premium
• Dental plan at no cost for employees and their families
• Flexible Spending accounts for healthcare and childcare
• Retirement options including a State defined benefit pension plan and a 457(b) deferred compensation plan
• 11 paid holidays plus generous leave and flexible scheduling opportunities
• Low-cost group life insurance
• Tution reimbursement
• Wellness program
• Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program eligibility

Equal Opportunity

Employer:

The State of Vermont celebrates diversity and is committed to an environment of mutual respect and inclusion. The State does not discriminate in employment on various grounds and employment decisions are merit-based.