Eligibility Operations Worker - McCook

State of Nebraska; South Dakota; On-site; USD 24,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

The State of Nebraska’s Health and Human Services agency in McCook, NE is seeking an Eligibility Operations Worker. You will serve as an initial contact for Nebraskans seeking assistance, complete applications, and determine eligibility across OEA programs with structured training provided.

This entry-level role emphasizes accurate information gathering, strong customer service, and the ability to navigate multiple DHHS systems. Training to apply program policy is offered to new hires.

Qualifications

• 24 semester hours of post high school education in behavioral sciences, public/business administration, social sciences, education or closely related field OR experience in customer service, determining eligibility for public assistance, examining/processing financial loan applications, medical or unemployment insurance or rehabilitation claims, unemployment services, OR a combination of education and experience in any of the above areas.

Responsibilities

• Serve as an initial point of contact for customers contacting OEA by phone or in person.
• Answer questions about DHHS programs, services, application processes, and eligibility requirements.
• Complete phone applications and gather information needed to evaluate customer needs.
• Review applications, referrals, and supporting documentation for completeness and accuracy.
• Interview customers to obtain and verify information needed to determine eligibility.
• Enter and maintain accurate customer information within DHHS systems.
• Explain program benefits, customer rights and responsibilities, and next steps in the eligibility process.
• Process reported changes and other case information timely and accurately.
• Maintain clear documentation of customer contacts and case activity.
• Participate in required training and demonstrate the ability to apply program policy and procedures.

Skills

Communication skills

Computer literacy

Customer service experience

Education

24 semester hours in behavioral sciences or related field

Tools

Multiple systems

Job description

The work we do matters! Hiring Agency: Health & Human Services - Agency 25 Location: McCook, NE Hiring Rate: $21.328 Job Posting: JR2026-00030048 Eligibility Operations Worker - McCook (Open) Applications No Longer Accepted On (If no date is displayed, job is posted as open until closed): 10-30-2026

Job Description

The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is looking for individuals who are customer-focused, adaptable, and interested in helping Nebraskans access services and supports through the Office of Economic Assistance (OEA). As an Eligibility Operations Worker you will serve as an initial point of contact for individuals and families seeking assistance through DHHS. This is the entry-level classification within the OEA Eligibility Operations Worker career series and provides the training and experience needed to build a career in eligibility services. In this role, you will work directly with customers to answer questions, gather and review information, complete applications, explain available programs and services, and determine when additional assistance is needed. You will learn to navigate DHHS systems, policies, and processes while providing timely and accurate service to customers. DHHS provides structured classroom and on-the-job training to prepare you for the work. As you complete training, you will begin applying program policy and determining eligibility for assigned OEA programs with increasing independence.

Examples of Work

• Serve as an initial point of contact for customers contacting OEA by phone or in person.
• Answer questions about DHHS programs, services, application processes, and eligibility requirements.
• Complete phone applications and gather information needed to evaluate customer needs.
• Review applications, referrals, and supporting documentation for completeness and accuracy.
• Interview customers to obtain and verify information needed to determine eligibility.
• Enter and maintain accurate customer information within DHHS systems.
• Explain program benefits, customer rights and responsibilities, and next steps in the eligibility process.
• Process reported changes and other case information timely and accurately.
• Maintain clear documentation of customer contacts and case activity.
• Participate in required training and demonstrate the ability to apply program policy and procedures.
• Provide professional and respectful customer service while working in a fast-paced environment.

We are looking for someone who can communicate effectively with customers, learn and apply detailed policies, manage multiple priorities, and make accurate decisions. Successful candidates will be comfortable working with technology, handling confidential information, asking detailed questions, and assisting customers who may be navigating difficult circumstances.

Requirements / Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• 24 semester hours of post high school education in behavioral sciences, public/business administration, social sciences, education or closely related field OR experience in customer service, determining eligibility for public assistance, examining/processing financial loan applications, medical or unemployment insurance or rehabilitation claims, unemployment services, OR a combination of education and experience in any of the above areas.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience using computers and technology to complete daily work, including navigating multiple systems or applications, entering and reviewing information accurately, and learning new technology or software.
• Experience in the field of human services, or case management, or determining eligibility for financial assistance programs.

If you're currently employed by the State of Nebraska, please don't apply through this external career site. Instead, log in to Workday and open the Jobs Hub - Internal Apply app from your home landing page. You can access Workday anytime through the Link web page: https://link.nebraska.gov/

Benefits

We offer a comprehensive package of pay, benefits, paid time off, retirement and professional development opportunities to help you get the most out of your career and life. Your paycheck is just part of your total compensation. Check out all that the State of Nebraska has to offer! Benefit eligibility may vary by position, agency and employment status. For more information on benefits, please visit: https://statejobs.nebraska.gov/index.html#benefits

Equal Opportunity Statement

The State of Nebraska values our teammates as well as a supportive environment that strives to promote diversity, inclusion, and belonging. We recruit, hire, train, and promote in all job classifications and at all levels without regard to race, color, religion, sex. age, national origin, disability, marital status or genetics. We are seeking talented individuals to join our team in careers that make a difference in the lives of Nebraskans.

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Thank you for your interest in joining our team!

State Government is one of the largest and most diverse employers in Nebraska. Whether it's helping a vulnerable child, advancing public health, making highways safer, or preserving our natural resources, the work we do matters!