PROGRAM ELIGIBILITY SPECIALIST I

State of Arkansas; Little Rock (AR); On-site; USD 43,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is seeking an entry-level Program Eligibility Specialist I to review applications, verify information, and determine eligibility for state programs. This role emphasizes attention to detail, organizational skills, and strong customer service to ensure timely determinations.

Responsibilities include processing applications, maintaining case records, and communicating eligibility requirements.

Qualifications

• Strong attention to detail in reviewing applications.
• Proficiency in basic computer applications and case management systems.
• Ability to explain policies clearly to applicants.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Customer service abilities to ensure timely determinations.

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 to gather required documentation.
• Assist in monitoring ongoing eligibility and renewal processes for participants.
• Provide clear communication to applicants regarding eligibility, 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 resources and services to support needs.
• Ensure adherence to state and federal regulations in eligibility determinations.
• Identify discrepancies in applications and elevate cases when needed.
• Maintain confidentiality of sensitive data per state privacy laws.
• Prepare reports for internal review and audits.

Skills

Attention to detail

Keyboarding

Verbal communication

Written communication

Customer service

Tools

Case management systems

Job description

Select how often (in days) to receive an alert:

Position Number: 22104090
County: Pulaski
Posting End Date: 11/3/2026
Anticipated Starting Salary: 47,397
Department of Agriculture

As the largest industry in Arkansas, the Arkansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture and forestry to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. The Department is organized into five Divisions: Forestry Division, Livestock and Poultry Division, Natural Resources Division, Plant Industries Division, and Shared Services Division.

Position Information

Job Series: Program Eligibility – Career Path

Classification: Program Eligibility Specialist I

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.