Program Eligibility Specialist

Position: PROGRAM ELIGIBILITY SPECIALIST I
Position number:

County: white

Posting end date: 01/27/2026

Anticipated starting salary: $47,397.00

Dco

The department of human services is a place for people passionate about serving others and changing lives for the better. We care for arkansans of all ages and ensure places like child care centers and nursing homes are safe. We are the safety net for the most vulnerable arkansans. Whether you answer the phones, take applications, protect children, or help care for residents or patients at one of our facilities, you make a difference by working s, working for the state has great perks, including a pension, maternity leave, paid state holidays, and much more.

At dhs, we take care of our employees so you can help care for others.

Hiring manager: tara holland

Minimum qualifications - from opm job specification

The formal education equivalent of a bachelor's degree in psychology, sociology, or related field. Additional requirements determined by the agency for recruiting purposes require review and approval by the office of personnel management. Other job related education and/or experience may be substituted for all or part of these basic requirements, except for certification or licensure requirements, upon approval of the qualifications review committee.

Job summary - short description of overall job duties

The dhs program eligibility specialist i works under general supervision and is responsible for determining client eligibility, obtaining client information, coordinating services with providers, and preparing information and recommendations. This position is governed by state and federal laws and agency/institution policy including fair labor standards act.

Special requirements (preferred skills, license, experience, travel, shift work, etc.)

Must possess a valid arkansas driver's license (per opm)

Some travel including overnight, lifting up to 20 pounds, frequent stooping and bending, ability to sit for extended periods of time including riding in a vehicle, extensive computer work utilizing microsoft office suite, occasional overtime, ability to utilize current phone system, clear enunciation, and excellent verbal and written communication skills. This position is fsla exempt, and overtime is not compensated.

Position information

Job series: program eligibility - career path

Classification: program eligibility specialist i

Class code: ppe
02p

Pay grade: sgs
05

Salary range: $47,397 - $70,148

Job summary

The program eligibility specialist i is an entry-level position responsible for reviewing applications, verifying information, and determining eligibility for state-administered programs. This role requires strong attention to detail, organizational skills, proficiency in computer keyboarding, strong verbal and written communication skills, and customer service abilities to ensure applicants receive timely and accurate determinations.

Primary responsibilities

Review and process applications for state assistance programs in compliance with established policies. Verify applicant information, including income, assets, residency, and household composition. Maintain accurate and up-to-date case records to support eligibility decisions. Ensure timely application processing and follow-up with applicants to gather required documentation. Assist in monitoring ongoing eligibility and renewal processes for program participants. Provide clear and professional communication to applicants regarding eligibility requirements, application status, and program benefits.

Assist clients in completing forms and gathering necessary documentation. Respond to inquiries and resolve concerns related to eligibility and program participation. Educate applicants on available resources and services to support their needs. Ensure adherence to state and federal regulations in eligibility determinations. Identify potential discrepancies or inconsistencies in applications and escalate cases when needed. Maintain confidentiality and security of sensitive applicant data in accordance with state privacy laws.

Prepare reports and summaries as needed for internal review and audits.

Knowledge and skills

Ability to assess applicant information and…