Eligibility Specialist II - Food & Nutrition Benefits

Catawba County Government; Hickory (NC); On-site; USD 40,000 - 49,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bilingual extra duty pay

Job summary

Catawba County Social Services is seeking an Eligibility Specialist II for the Food & Nutrition Services team to determine and maintain benefits for eligible individuals and families. You will verify information, manage redeterminations, and ensure timelines are met within county, state, and federal rules.

The role requires strong analytical and communication skills, the ability to handle sensitive data, and a commitment to serving the community.

Qualifications

• 1 year of experience in income maintenance eligibility in a Department of Social Services.
• Trainees may be accepted. Trainee pay is $44,366.96 per year.

Responsibilities

• Interview applicants to determine eligibility for Food & Nutrition Services benefits.
• Collect, verify, and analyze information from employers, landlords, financial institutions, and state systems to certify households for benefits.
• Manage an ongoing caseload, including redeterminations, changes in income or household composition, and other case updates.
• Educate clients on budgeting, benefit calculation, and reporting changes to avoid overpayment or fraud.
• Investigate and resolve discrepancies; refer suspected errors to the Program Integrity unit as needed.
• Coordinate with other departments and agencies to ensure continuity of services.
• Offer voter registration opportunities and issue Fishing License Waivers as required.
• Refer applicants and recipients to additional community resources as appropriate.
• Participate in public outreach to promote awareness of the Food & Nutrition Services program.
• Maintain strict confidentiality and security of sensitive information.

Skills

Multitasking

Analytical thinking

Policy interpretation

Communication

Computer skills

Time management

Organizational skills

Interpersonal skills

Professionalism

Education

Associate’s degree in Human Services

High school diploma or GED + 3 years public contact incl. interviewing and data gathering + 1 year IMC experience

Job description

Catawba County Social Services is seeking an Eligibility Specialist II for the Food & Nutrition Services team to determine and maintain benefits for eligible individuals and families. You will verify information, manage redeterminations, and ensure timelines are met within county, state, and federal rules.

The role requires strong analytical and communication skills, the ability to handle sensitive data, and a commitment to serving the community.