General Description POSTING TYPE: Open Competitive DEPARTMENT: Employment & Economic Assistance HOURS: Full-time (40 hours per week). PREFERRED HIRING RANGE: $56,217 - $70,271 annually FULL SALARY RANGE: $56,217 - $87,839 annually (Grade 106) LOCATION: West St. Paul/Hybrid with Telework UNION: AFSCME 306 CLOSE DATE: 4:30 p.m. on 11/14/2025 (First review of applicants on 11/12/2025) Come join us at Dakota County and "Be more". Dakota County employs nearly 2000 skilled individuals whose talents and contributions makes Dakota County a premier place to live and work. The work County government does is unique. Dakota County offers important careers like the Program Eligibility Specialist (FAS II)- that make a difference in people's lives. You will not be just another employee; you'll be a valued employee making a difference in the lives of Dakota County residents every single day. If you have experience as a Financial Worker and want to start a career with Dakota County, you are encouraged to apply. Will you be the next person to join us at Dakota County? In this position, you will evaluate Dakota County residents' basic needs, health and well-being are met by assessing clients' economic, social, and health-related issues in order to accurately determine public assistance program eligibility. Some examples of programs are Child Care Assistance Program, General Assistance, Medicaid, Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP), MNsure, and Supplement Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Meet Public Assistance Supervisors and Staff at a Teams Meeting on Monday, November 10th from 1:00-2:30 p.m. Learn more about these critical Public Assistance positions and bring your questions! This visual shares some of the highlights of being a Program Eligibility Specialist, with opportunities to serve public assistance clients, learn programs and policy, and computer system entry. This position is for someone who enjoys working with people and on computers, plus has an interest in helping individuals or families in times of financial crisis. Public Assistance Eligibility Specialists are often the first line of defense against poverty. We use in depth analysis of information received from internal and external customers, and multiple data sources. This career requires attention to detail, quality customer service and strong interpersonal communication skills. Examples of Some Work Performed in this Position: Determine eligibility for multiple public assistance programs, complete interviews, and review and verify information received from multiple sources. Review household information periodically to ensure accurate ongoing eligibility. Communicate program rules and requirements, benefit levels, expectations, and timelines to customers via phone, virtual meeting, email, or in-person contact at county building or occasional events. Calculate benefit amounts per county, state, and federal program guidelines. Data entry into multiple state and county computer systems. Provide case management on individual or team caseload. Duties & Responsibilities These examples do not include all possible tasks in this work and do not limit the assignment of related tasks in any position of this classification. Regular attendance according to the position's management approved work schedule is required for all positions. Demonstrates a commitment to support cultural diversity County wide and actively supports the County's diversity initiatives and works to address the needs of diverse and underserved communities. Interview Dakota County residents to assess their needs, gather information, and determine what governmental or community resources can meet those needs. Provide services by assessing and determining financial assistance program eligibility. Complete ongoing required trainings which includes, but not limited to; process, policy, safety, technology, data integrity. Coordinate services by collaborating with staff and external service providers. Reassess clients' needs and eligibility criteria to determine continued program eligibility and ensure their well-being as required or needed. Represent the agency in administrative-@type settings related to program eligibility, including appeals. Represent the agency in internal and external work groups and advisory committees, document and prepare presentations. Provide training/mentorship on programs, work methods, and procedures to other agency staff. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: 1-9 Knowledge, Skills & Abilities and Work Environment Demonstrates an understanding of and respect for the diversity of customers, staff, and co-workers. Creates a respectful workplace that promotes equity and addresses the needs of diverse and underserved communities. Ability to assess a persons' social, economic, emotional, and health needs. Ability to assess complex life situations and make related decisions and recommendations to resolve problems with compassion and knowledge. Comprehensive knowledge of computer software and information systems. Knowledge of investigative interviewing techniques via phone, virtual or face to face, which includes fact finding, de-escalation skills, empathy, and acquired and/or lived experience. Knowledge of community resources. Some knowledge of income and asset @types and their relationship to public assistance program eligibility. Must possess a high level of analytical skills. Possess strong customer service skills to effectively communicate with both our internal and external customers. Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing, including composing comprehensive and concise case notes. Ability to work both independently and as a team member. Ability to work under stress and use discretion in making decisions. Ability to work with customers that are under stress. Using interpersonal skills of active listening, conversation control, possible de-escalation techniques, and understanding their needs. Ability to prioritize work according to client and agency needs. Ability to effectively keyboard and manage electronic documents. WORK ENVIRONMENT: Work is a combination of in a Dakota County office building and through remote arrangement. Lifting requirement of up to 20 pounds on an occasional basis. Equipment used may include, but is not limited to, computer, printer, calculator, telephone, and copy and fax machines. Benefits Comprehensive and affordable medical, dental, vision, and other benefits Excellent work-life balance Generous paid time off (accrual rate starts at four weeks per year) Eleven paid holidays each year and one floating holiday Pension with a generous employer contribution Ability to work from home some of the time Selection Process You submit an online application that includes supplemental questions We assign you a score based on your qualifications Top scoring candidates are referred to the hiring manager for interview consideration We conduct interviews and reference checks before extending an offer We extend an offer and conduct background check(s) Dakota County aims to create an environment that is welcoming and inclusive of diverse people, backgrounds, and experiences. Our goal is to have a workforce that is reflective of the communities and individuals we serve. We promote an equitable and culturally aware working environment where everyone can be their authentic selves.
