PROGRAM ELIGIBILITY SPECIALIST I

State of Arkansas; Jonesboro (AR); On-site; USD 47,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Pension

Maternity leave

Paid state holidays

Job summary

The State of Arkansas is seeking a Program Eligibility Specialist I to evaluate applications for state programs and determine eligibility. You will verify information, coordinate with providers, and prepare recommendations with accuracy and attention to detail, supporting timely and compliant decisions.

The role requires strong communication, data entry, and customer service skills, with the ability to multi-task and prioritize in a structured, state-regulated environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in psychology, sociology, or related field.
• At least one year of experience in customer service, administrative support, or case processing.
• Ability to adhere to program requirements, policies, and timelines.

Responsibilities

• Review and process applications for state assistance programs.
• Verify applicant information including income, assets, residency, and household composition.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date case records to support eligibility decisions.
• Ensure timely processing and follow-up with applicants to gather required documentation.
• Educate applicants on available resources and program benefits.

Skills

Attention to detail

Verbal & written communication

Data entry / keyboarding

Multitasking & prioritization

Customer service

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent in psychology, sociology, or related field

Tools

Case management systems

Basic computer applications

Job description

Position Number: 22101124
County: Craighead
Posting End Date: August 21, 2026

Initial and on-going training is required and may also require in-State travel (day and or night stays).
Requires the ability to multi-task, problem solve and prioritize.

Must be able to escort clients to and from the lobby multiple times a day. Must be able to sit, type, and talk on the phone for long periods of time. Requires some standing at the multi-functional device for scanning and copying.
Sufficient interpersonal skills to ensure a positive relationship with clients and coworkers.

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.

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.

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 at DHS. Plus, 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.

Position Information

Job Series: Program Eligibility - Career Path

Classification: Program Eligibility Specialist I

Class Code: PPE02P

Pay Grade: SGS05

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 elevate 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 apply program guidelines accurately.Strong attention to detail in reviewing documents and entering data.Proficiency in basic computer applications and case management systems.Ability to explain complex policies to applicants in an understandable manner.Ability to prepare, present, and review oral and written information and reports.Capacity to prioritize tasks, handle multiple cases, and meet deadlines.Ability to analyze application issues and determine solutions.

Minimum Qualifications

At least one year of experience in customer service, administrative support, case processing, or a related field.

Satisfaction of the minimum qualifications, including years of experience and service, does not entitle employees to automatic progression within the job series. Promotion to the next classification level is at the discretion of the department and the Office of Personnel Management, taking into consideration the employee’s demonstrated skills, competencies, performance, workload responsibilities, and organizational needs.

Licensure/Certifications

N/AOTHER 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.

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.