Determine eligibility of persons applying to receive assistance from government programs and agency resources, such as welfare, unemployment benefits, social security, and public housing.
SOC: 43-4061.00
Common Job Titles
Eligibility Specialist
Eligibility Worker
Social Welfare Examiner (SWEX)
Workforce Services Representative (WSR)
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
KnowledgeEvaluate applicant eligibility for government assistance programs by analyzing documentation against federal and state regulatory requirements, working independently in government office settings.
Proficient
KnowledgeInterpret complex government regulations and policy guidelines applying legal criteria to individual cases involving welfare, housing assistance, and social security benefits.
Proficient
MindsetBalance empathy for applicant needs with adherence to regulatory compliance standards when making determinations that impact vulnerable populations' access to essential resources.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess conflicting or incomplete documentation using critical thinking to identify discrepancies and request additional verification as needed.
Proficient
MindsetAdvocate for equitable service delivery by identifying systemic barriers and collaborating with supervisors to improve program accessibility for underserved communities.
Proficient
KnowledgeOrganize high-volume caseloads and application processing timelines prioritizing urgent cases while meeting statutory deadlines under time constraints.
Proficient
KnowledgeAnalyze financial records, income statements, and supporting documentation to determine compliance with welfare, unemployment, and social security program standards.
Developing
MindsetEngage with diverse applicants to gather sensitive personal and financial information demonstrating cultural sensitivity and respect while maintaining professional boundaries.
Developing
KnowledgeExplain program requirements, application procedures, and eligibility decisions to applicants with varying levels of literacy and understanding, using clear and accessible language.
Developing
Hands-onOperate case management information systems and database software to document applicant information, process applications, and maintain accurate records in compliance with data security protocols.
Developing
KnowledgeApply active listening techniques to understand applicant circumstances during in-person and remote interviews, adapting communication style to individual needs.
Developing
KnowledgeSummarize case findings and eligibility determinations in written reports using precise language that complies with agency documentation standards and legal requirements.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Eligibility Interviewers, Government Programs (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
156,260
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $37,690. 25th percentile: U.S. $43,850. 50th percentile: U.S. $51,500. 75th percentile: U.S. $61,680. 90th percentile: U.S. $72,280. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$37,690
10% of workers earn the following or more
$72,280
Workers on average earn
$53,970
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Customer and Personal Service4.9/5
English Language4.4/5
Administration and Management3.8/5
Administrative3.8/5
Personnel and Human Resources3.5/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
Microsoft Access
Microsoft Dynamics
Microsoft Excel
Microsoft Office software
Microsoft Outlook
Microsoft PowerPoint
Microsoft Word
Zoom
Technology Skills
Adobe Acrobat Reader
Client assessment software
Corel WinZip
Email software
GE Healthcare Centricity EMR
Google Meet
Medicaid management information system MMIS
Resource and patient management system RPMS patient registration software
