Eligibility and Benefit Specialist

The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Division of Community Access, Bureau of Eligibility Determinations is seeking a Eligibility and Benefit Specialist to join our team! 

HHS has hundreds of team members across the state and is currently in search of 3 highly motivated and compassionate individuals interested in a rewarding career assisting those in need of food, medical care, cash assistance and other social services through programs like Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Programs (SNAP) and Temporary assistance for Needy Families (TANF). You’ll work with customers, assess information to approve benefits, and receive dedicated training to understand how we serve Iowans. 

This is a full-time opportunity, Monday – Friday with a work schedule of 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. This position is a hybrid position offering the opportunity to work from home and in the office at the nearest full-time HHS office to your residence. 

Note: This position will start at the beginning of the salary range. Employees are eligible to receive a pay increase after 6 months and then annually while remaining within salary range stated above.

Core Essential Functions: 

• Determine initial and ongoing eligibility for State and Federal assistance programs administered by HHS. 
• Process applications and recertifications within specific time frames. 
• Interview applicants and clients telephonically. 
• Communicate program rules and responsibilities. 
• Document case actions. 
• Manage an assigned caseload with duties that include reviewing documents, processing changes in eligibility, participating in the appeals process, making referrals to other services, and completing corrective actions when necessary. 
• Complete other duties as assigned including, participation in committees, work groups, public forums, and trainings. 

The ideal candidate will be able to: 

• Provide exceptional customer service. 
• Collect, analyze and interpret complex policies, procedures and information from customers or 3rd parties. 
• Communicate effectively in person, via phone, and in writing. 
• Excel at meeting processing timeframes and managing an individual workload while working within a team. 
• Prepare and present documents verbally and in writing. 
• Demonstrate excellent organizational skills and strong attention to details. 
• Possess strong computer navigation and math skills. 

The ability to communicate in another language in addition to English is a plus. If you have those skills, please note in the application any additional languages in which you are proficient. 

Benefits

Working for the State of Iowa comes with its perks. In addition to a competitive salary, you'll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth:

• Health, Dental, and Vision Coverage: Health and dental insurance packages to keep you and your family healthy at a low cost with outstanding coverage!
• Paid Time Off: Take time to recharge with paid time off, including vacation (96 hours/year to begin, increasing with years of service), sick leave (144 hours/year), and paid holidays (9 days/year).
• Retirement Plans: Participate in retirement plans such as IPERS (employees contribute 6.29% and the State of Iowa contributes 9.44%) as well as our Retirement Investors Club (RIC), Employer Sponsored Retirement Plan (the State of Iowa matches dollar for dollar up to $75/month).
• Flexible Spending Accounts: Take advantage of flexible spending accounts for medical and dependent care expenses.
• Insurance Coverage: Benefit from life insurance and free long-term disability insurance for added peace of mind.
• Employee Assistance Program: Access resources and support through our Employee Assistance Program for personal and professional challenges.
• Employee Discount Programs: Enjoy discounts on a variety of goods and services through our employee discount programs. 

For additional information on benefits click here.

Click here to see how we compare with other employers or offers by using our Total Compensation Calculator.

Background Checks
Applicants will be required to complete a background check to be considered for this position.

The State of Iowa is an EEO/AA Employer

HHS values those with “lived experience” and encourages adults who were fostered as youth, foster parents, and/or parents who were in the DHS system to apply. Minorities, women, persons with disabilities and veterans are encouraged to apply (Hearing and Speech Impaired – Relay Iowa 1-800-735-2942 TDD).

Our agency uses E-Verify to confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, please visit www.dhs.gov/E-Verify.