PROGRAM ELIGIBILITY SPECIALIST I

Date: Mar 9, 2026

Req ID: 55949

Location:

Bentonville, AR, US, 72712

Category: AR DEPT OF HUMAN SERVICES

Anticipated Starting Salary: $47,396.96

Position Number: 22076670
County: Benton
Posting End Date: March 20,2026

Job duties:

The Program Eligibility Specialists positions support the civil rights of nursing home residents.

The A+ Program Eligibility Specialist must be knowledgeable of all Federal and State long term support services, policies, and procedures. A+ team activities compliment the regulations of nursing facilities, CMS (MDS Section Q), by providing Options Counseling services.

DHS and DAABH are responsible for timely service delivery and follow through of State Law (Act 516) and federal regulations (Supreme Court Olmstead Decision of 1999).

Preferred Qualifications:

Prior case manager experience and be knowledgeable of programs for Aging Adults and Adults with Disabilities.

A significant percentage of work time will be outside of the office and within the community. Frequent in-state travel required. The position required immediate access to reliable transportation to serve the following counties: Benton, Carroll, Boone, Madison and Newton. Candidates must possess a valid driver’s license and be able to drive independently.

This role requires the ability to visit and navigate a variety of locations which may include, but not limited to, nursing homes, hospitals, clinics, DHS offices, family home, service provider offices, banks, and community organizations.

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 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.

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/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.