PROGRAM ELIGIBILITY SPECIALIST I

Date: Dec 2, 2025

Req ID: 54458

Location:

Fort Smith, AR, US, 72901

Category: DEPT OF WORKFORCE SERVICES

Anticipated Starting Salary: $47,396.96

Position Summary

The Program Eligibility Specialist is responsible for assisting individuals who have come to a local Arkansas Workforce Center (AWC) to see UI and other partner services. Their job duties include: providing support for claimants using the self-services computers for claim filing, accepting government-issued photo IDs and making sure they are attached to the Unemployment Insurance (UI) claim, accepting UI documents for processing, providing print outs to claimants needing proof of income for other assistance, assisting claimants with software access for their Reemployment Services and Eligibility Assessment appointment, processing documents for imaging, and other UI duties as assigned.

The role requires a high level of accountability in ensuring claimants are routed to the correct partners and all job duties are completed in a timely manner.

Success in this position depends on strong communication skills to effectively engage with staff, claimants, employers, UI Administration, and other UI units - including UI Claims Processing, UI Benefits Hotline, and UI Correspondence - with a focus on efficiency in protecting the integrity of the trust fund.

In addition, this staff will ensure the triage form is completed to determine other partner services needed or requested and providing this information to the Commerce Program Supervisor/Expert for this unit.

This position requires on-site employment with no remote or hybrid options available.

Education and Professional Work Experience

Minimum Qualifications

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

Preferred Qualification

At least one (1) year experience working with computers programs, especially Microsoft Office Suite. Some experience with conducting business via telephone and/or email.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

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.

Job Responsibilities and Expected Results

Assisting claimants using the self-service computers for UI purposes.
Accepting government-issued photo ID and attaching to the claim through the ID Website.
Accepting and processing UI documents.
Providing printouts for claimants needing proof for income-based assistance.
Assisting claimants with software access for their Reemployment Services and Eligibility Assessment (RESEA) appointment.
Responds to inquiries and processes requests from other ADWS UI units including UI Claims Processing, UI Benefits Hotline, UI Correspondence, Automated Adjudication Systems (AAS) Benefit Accuracy Measurement (BAM), Contributions, and other units regarding individual claims or issues found.
Processing documents for imaging.
Initiate the triage form for other partner services and route individuals to the correct partner.
Provide report to Manager on triage activities.
Performs other duties as defined and assigned by UI Administration.

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.