PROGRAM ELIGIBILITY SPECIALIST I

Position Information

Position Number:

County: Ashley

Posting End Date: 02/10/2026

DCO

Hiring Official: Bernita Jones

Minimum Qualifications

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.

Job Summary

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.

This position requires computer keyboarding skills, frequent travel including some overnight, lifting up to 20 pounds, frequent stooping and bending, ability to sit for extended periods of time including riding in a vehicle, overtime, ability to utilize current phone system, clear enunciation, and excellent verbal and written communication skills. Position assignments are dependent on fluctuating caseloads and employee resources as determined by management staff.

Special Requirement (Preferred Skills/License/Experience/Travel, Shift Work, Etc.)

Some travel including overnight, lifting up to 20 pounds, frequent stooping and bending, ability to sit for extended periods of time including riding in a vehicle, extensive computer work utilizing Microsoft Office Suite, occasional overtime, ability to utilize current phone system, clear enunciation, and excellent verbal and written communication skills. This position is governed by FSLA and approved overtime is compensated.

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.

Program Eligibility Specialist I – Role

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 escalate 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.

Licensure/Certifications

N/A

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 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.