ELIGIBILITY ASSISTANT - 10072025- 71799 - Columbia, TN

The State of Tennessee's Department of Human Services is dedicated to providing vital support and resources to individuals and families across the region. Positioned within the Adult and Family Services Division in Maury County, this department plays a critical role in administering programs that aim to improve the quality of life for Tennessee residents by assisting them in obtaining necessary social services and federal benefits. Committed to serving the community with integrity, professionalism, and compassion, the department operates through a network of dedicated employees who work diligently to ensure that all eligible citizens have access to benefits that can enhance their well-being and economic security. This full-time role, located on-site in Columbia, TN, offers a competitive salary range of $30,972 to $38,712 annually, or $2,581 to $3,226 monthly. The position requires a commitment to public service and upholding strict regulatory standards, including a mandatory criminal background check to ensure the suitability of candidates within this sensitive role. The position of Eligibility Technician is a paraprofessional classification focusing on eligibility-related tasks of average complexity. The primary function involves assisting Eligibility Counselors with case management duties and gradually acquiring the knowledge and understanding of state and federal regulations necessary to determine eligibility for various federal benefit programs. Unlike the Eligibility Clerk whose responsibilities are mainly clerical, the Eligibility Technician is actively engaged in client interaction and preliminary assessments to facilitate service delivery. Furthermore, this role differs from the Eligibility Counselor position as the latter has the authority to make final eligibility decisions, whereas the technician supports this process by verifying and compiling information. Employees in this role will be responsible for explaining policies, benefits, and procedural details to clients to ensure clarity and compliance. They will conduct interviews to gather pertinent eligibility information, verify data accuracy by cross-referencing client-provided details against official databases, and assist counselors by entering and managing case data within electronic systems. Moreover, candidates in this position will be expected to research potential benefits from internal and external sources to better meet client needs and resolve general concerns about agency programs and policies. The role demands excellent communication skills, a strong customer service orientation, and the ability to navigate complex information systems. Candidates must demonstrate adaptability, sound judgment, and diligence in documenting case activities to maintain accurate records that support eligibility determinations. Proficiency with standard office equipment, computers, and electronic document management systems is essential for efficient case processing. This career opportunity is ideal for individuals interested in public service, social services, and community outreach, providing a meaningful way to contribute positively while developing professional skills and knowledge in a supportive governmental environment.

• Complete a criminal history disclosure form approved by the appointing authority
• Agree to release all records involving criminal history to the appointing authority
• Supply a fingerprint sample as prescribed by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation
• Must have a high school diploma or equivalent
• Must have relevant clerical or customer service experience
• Must be able to communicate effectively with clients
• Must be able to operate general office equipment and use computer systems
• Must be willing to work on-site in Columbia, TN