Eligibility and Benefit Specialist - Bilingual English/Spanish

Eligibility and Benefit Specialist - Bilingual English/Spanish

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Eligibility and Benefit Specialist - Bilingual English/Spanish

Salary

$47,673.60 - $69,763.20 Annually

Location

Des Moines - 50313 - Polk County, IA

Job Type

Full-time

Job Number

26-02337

Agency

400 Health & Human Services - Community Access Eligibility

Division

Health and Human Services - Community Access Eligibility

Opening Date

03/03/2026

Closing Date

3/15/2026 11:59 PM Central

LinkedIn Tag

#LI-POST

Point of Contact

Melissa Nation - melissa.nation@hhs.iowa.gov

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Job Description

Only applicants who meet the Minimum Qualification Requirements and meet all selective requirements (listed below) will be placed on the eligible list.

The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Division of Community Access, Bureau of Economic Assistance is seeking Eligibility and Benefit Specialists (Job Classification: Income Maintenance Worker 2) to join our team of dedicated specialists!

HHS has hundreds of team members across the state and is in search of more highly motivated and compassionate individuals interested in a rewarding career assisting those in need of food, medical care, cash assistance and other social services through programs like Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Programs (SNAP) and Temporary assistance for Needy Families (TANF). You'll work with customers, assess information to approve benefits, and receive dedicated training to understand how we serve Iowans. For this position, we are seeking applicants with the ability to speak and write in Spanish as well as English.

This is a full-time opportunity, Monday ? Friday with a work schedule of 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. This position may be eligible to become a hybrid position offering the opportunity to work from home and in the office at the nearest full-time HHS office to your residence after a 6-month training and probationary period.

Core Essential Functions:

• Determine initial and ongoing eligibility for State and Federal assistance programs administered by HHS.
• Process applications and recertifications within specific time frames.
• Interview applicants and clients via phone.
• Communicate program rules and responsibilities.
• Document case actions.
• Manage an assigned caseload with duties that include reviewing documents, processing changes in eligibility, participating in the appeals process, making referrals to other services, and completing corrective actions when necessary.
• Complete other duties as assigned including participation in committees, work groups, public forums, and trainings.

The ideal candidate will be able to:

• Provide exceptional customer service.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret complex policies, procedures, and information from customers or 3rdparties.
• Communicate effectively in person, via phone, and in writing.
• Excel at meeting processing timeframes and managing an individual workload while working within a team.
• Prepare and present documents verbally and in writing.
• Demonstrate excellent organizational skills and strong attention to details.
• Possess strong computer navigation and math skills.

The ability to communicate in another language in addition to English is a plus. If you have those skills, please note in the application any additional languages in which you are proficient.

Note: This position will start at the beginning of the salary range. Employees are eligible to receive a pay increase after 6 months and then annually while remaining within salary range stated above.

Benefits

Working for the State of Iowa comes with its perks. In addition to a competitive salary, you'll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth:

• Health, Dental, and Vision Coverage: Health and dental insurance packages to keep you and your family healthy at a low cost with outstanding coverage!
• Paid Time Off: Take time to recharge with paid time off, including vacation (96 hours/year to begin, increasing with years of service), sick leave (144 hours/year), and paid holidays (9 days/year).
• Retirement Plans: Participate in retirement plans such as IPERS (employees contribute 6.29% and the State of Iowa contributes 9.44%) as well as our Retirement Investors Club (RIC), Employer Sponsored Retirement Plan (the State of Iowa matches dollar for dollar up to $75/month).
• Flexible Spending Accounts: Take advantage of flexible spending accounts for medical and dependent care expenses.
• Insurance Coverage: Benefit from life insurance and free long-term disability insurance for added peace of mind.
• Employee Assistance Program: Access resources and support through our Employee Assistance Program for personal and professional challenges.
• Employee Discount Programs: Enjoy discounts on a variety of goods and services through our employee discount programs.

For additional information on benefits click here .

Click here to see how we compare with other employers or offers by using our Total Compensation Calculator.

Background Checks

Applicants will be required to complete a background check to be considered for this position.

The State of Iowa is an EEO/AA Employer

HHS values those with ?lived experience? and encourages adults who were fostered as youth, foster parents, and/or parents who were in the DHS system to apply. Minorities, women, persons with disabilities and veterans are encouraged to apply (Hearing and Speech Impaired ? Relay Iowa 1-800-735-2942 TDD).

E-Verify and Right to Work

The State of Iowa participates in E-Verify, a federal program that helps employers confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. Within the required timeframe, new hires will be verified through the E-Verify system to ensure authorization to work in the United States. The State of Iowa also complies with the federalRight to Worklaws, which protect employees? rights to work without being required to join a labor organization. For more information, please visit www.e-verify.gov .

Selectives

863Spanish Language (Customer Service)

The ability to understand, speak, read, and write Spanish to provide service to Spanish speaking customers.

Minimum Qualification Requirements

Sixty semester hours (or equivalent academic units) from an accredited college or university;

OR

a combination of education and experience substituting the equivalent of one year of full-time public contact work experience obtaining, analyzing and/or evaluating data for each year of the required college education (on the basis that thirty semester hours is equal to one year of work experience);

OR

employees withcurrentcontinuous experience in the state executive branch that includes experience equal to 18 months of full-time work at a Clerk Advanced level or above involving public contact experience on a regular basis in a service area.

For additional information, please click on thislink to view the job description (https://das.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/hr/documents/class\_and\_pay/JobClassDescriptions/IncomeMaintenanceWorker2-03089.pdf) .

Why Choose the State of Iowa?

At the heart of our commitment to excellence is a dedication to our most valuable asset ? our employees. Discover the outstanding benefits that set us apart as an employer of choice.

Our Robust Benefits Package Includes:

Competitive Compensation:

Enjoy a competitive salary that reflects directly on your skills and expertise.

Keep in mind, your wage is just one part of your total compensation. Unlock the complete value of your employment with the State of Iowa by using our user-friendlyTotal Compensation Calculator (https://das.iowa.gov/media/3773/download?inline) .Gain insights into your comprehensive annual compensation, including salary and State-provided benefits.

Health and Wellness:

Prioritize your well-being with our comprehensive health plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Enjoy the peace of mind knowing that the State of Iowa covers 90% of the premiums, providing you and your loved ones with excellent coverage at a remarkably low cost.

Retirement Planning:

We are proud to offer the Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS). A defined benefit plan, IPERS benefits are guaranteed for life, meaning once you retire, you will receive the same monthly benefit for the remainder of your life (once vested). We invest in your long-term financial well-being, so you can retire with peace of mind.Click here to learn more about IPERS (https://ipers.org/members) .

Paid Time Off:

Life is unpredictable, and at the State of Iowa, we understand the importance of work-life balance. Our leave policies, including paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave with unlimited accrual, ensure you have the flexibility you need for personal and family matters.

Professional Development:

Elevate your career with continuous learning opportunities. We support your growth through training programs, workshops, and tuition reimbursement.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP):

We care about your well-being beyond the workplace. Access confidential counseling, resources, and support through our Employee Assistance Program.

Diversity and Inclusion:

Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces all backgrounds and perspectives. We believe diversity is a strength that drives innovation.

Join Us - Elevate Your Career:

Ready to elevate your career with the State of Iowa?Click here (https://iowa.attract.neogov.com/recruitment/p/benefits) to explore more about our unparalleled benefits and discover what makes us unique. Your success is our priority!

01

Do you understand that the answers to all of the following questions must be truthful, honest, and accurate to the best of your ability? Please read all questions and answers thoroughly and make sure you understand them completely.Ensure the answers to your questions match the information filled out on your application and the attachments you have uploaded. If the answers to your questions are inconsistent with your application information or uploaded attachments, you will be given zero points for the question.Knowingly misrepresenting the facts when submitting any information related to an application, examination, certification, appeal, or any other facet of the selection process will result in your disqualification from this application and future employment with the state of Iowa.

• Yes - I understand and agree.
• No

02

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY

Have you filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. ?611 et seq?

• No - I have NOT filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. ?611 et seq
• Yes - I HAVE filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. ?611 et seq

03

Do you have sixty semester hours (or equivalent academic units) from an accredited college or university?

• Yes
• No

04

How many years do you have of a combination of post high school education AND/OR full-time public contact work experience obtaining, analyzing and/or evaluating data for each year of the required college education? Thirty semester hours is equal to one year of work experience.

• I do not have any of the education or experience
• Less than two years of the combined education and/or experience
• Two years or more of the combined education and/or experience

05

Are you a current State of Iowa employee (executive branch)? IF YES - How many months do you have of full-time work at a Clerk Advanced level or above involving public contact experience on a regular basis in a service area for the State of Iowa?

• I am not a State of Iowa employee
• Less than 18 months of full-time work at a Clerk Advanced level or above involving public contact experience on a regular basis in a service area for the State of Iowa
• More than 18 months of full-time work at a Clerk Advanced level or above involving public contact experience on a regular basis in a service area for the State of Iowa

06

Does your application show that you have the ability to understand, speak, read, and write Spanish to provide service to Spanish speaking customers.

• Yes - My current application and/or attached documentation clearly addresses this requirement
• No - I do not currently meet this requirement

07

If you answered "Yes" to question #6 above - please list exactly HOW you meet it: list exact classes and credit hours, employer, dates and hours per week and exact duties. Please do not paste or state "See application or resume". If you answered No to the question above please type in "No" in the box below.

08

Which best describes your education and experience? (if multiple responses apply for you, please choose the one that has the higher points).

• Bachelor's Degree (or higher) or 4 plus years work experience with a major/emphasis in a Human Services related field (ie: Social Work, Counseling, Public Administration, Human Resources, Communications, Criminal Justice, Paralegal)
• Associate's Degree or 2 plus years work experience with a major/emphasis in a Human Services related field (ie: Social Work, Counseling, Public Administration, Human Resources, Communications, Criminal Justice, Paralegal)
• Not Applicable

09

What is your total number of years working full-time in social services, particularly in evaluating the needs of this demographic concerning client eligibility and benefits for different programs?

• Five or more years
• Four to less than five years
• Three to less than four years
• Two to less than three years
• One to less than two years
• Less than one year

10

What is our total number of years of full-time experience in a role comparable to social services, specifically in assessing individual needs related to client eligibility and benefits for programs outside of social services?

• Five or more years
• Four to less than five years
• Three to less than four years
• Two to less than three years
• One to less than two years
• Less than one year

11

How many years of full-time work experience do you possess in interpreting policies at the federal, state, county, or city level? This includes analyzing information received and assessing whether it aligns with the criteria outlined in various policies or regulations?

• Five or more years
• Four to less than five years
• Three to less than four years
• Two to less than three years
• One to less than two years
• Less than one year

12

How many years of full-time work experience do you have interviewing clients over the phone or in person?

• Five or more years
• Four to less than five years
• Three to less than four years
• Two to less than three years
• One to less than two years
• Less than one year

13

How many years of full-time work experience do you have utilizing computer systems, navigating multiple computer screens, uploading and retrieving documents, and documenting information electronically?

• Five or more years
• Four to less than five years
• Three to less than four years
• Two to less than three years
• One to less than two years
• Less than one year

14

How many years of full-time work experience do you possess in a fast-paced, deadline-driven and detail-oriented environment?

• Five or more years
• Four to less than five years
• Three to less than four years
• Two to less than three years
• One to less than two years
• Less than one year

Required Question

Employer

State of Iowa

Agency

400 Health & Human Services - Community Access Eligibility

Address

Lucas State Office Building

321 E. 12th Street

Des Moines, Iowa, 50319

Website

https://hhs.iowa.gov/

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