Eligibility Worker

Steele County government is driven to deliver quality services in a respectful and fiscally responsible way. Our core values include: Teamwork, Positivity/Forward-Thinking, Respect, Accountability and Integrity. 

Eligibility Worker (16 positions)

Hiring Range: $28.04 - $35.78 per hour

Full-Time, Non-Exempt

Benefit & Pension Eligible*                                      

Shape the future of human services in Steele County. We are seeking individuals who want to be on a high-performing team, foster a healthy and inclusive work culture, and implement innovative systems that deliver services with accountability, dignity, and measurable impact.

About Steele County Human Services 

The Minnesota Prairie County Alliance (MNPrairie) is a collaborative human services agency formed in 2014 by Dodge, Steele, and Waseca counties to deliver essential services through a shared structure.  Steele County has made the decision to transition out of the collaborative and establish an independent county human services department. Planning and activities for this separation are underway, with the new department scheduled to launch on January 1, 2027.  This change reflects Steele County’s commitment to local service delivery and meeting the unique needs of its residents. Our intention is to build our team and have the new members join us towards the end of 2026 or early January 2027!

Under the direction of the Eligibility Supervisor, the Eligibility Worker is responsible for determining initial and on-going the eligibility of clients for a wide variety of county, state and federal public assistance programs (i.e. medical assistance, cash assistance, supplemental nutrition assistance, energy assistance, child care, etc.) through interviews, applicant communications and partnering with other agencies/organizations to assure compliance with the various rules and policies applicable to each program. Duties include but are not limited to:

• Conducts interviews with clients to obtain the necessary and relevant information needed to process applications, assess client needs, status and financial situation, to address questions or concerns.      Expedites food support benefits if applicant meets established criteria. 
• Determines initial eligibility and performs ongoing case management activities for such programs as Medicaid, General Assistance, MN Supplemental Aid, Supplemental Nutritional Assistance, MN Family Investment, Work Benefit, Diversionary Work, Emergency General Assistance, Group Residential Housing, Refugee Cash Assistance, MNSURE, Long-Term Care, Child Care and Foster Care Assistance programs. 
• Identifies potential or suspected cases of fraud and initiates referrals for fraud investigations.  Provides the investigator with all relevant information and documentation.  Collaborates with County Attorney staff and testifies at fraud hearings.      Takes corrective action against participants or providers if fraud is confirmed.  Established overpayments in accordance with policies.       
• Verify if third party insurance is available.  Request documentation from client and/or employer regarding coverage options and individual cost per pay period.  Calculates the cost effectiveness of premium covering medical assistance recipients.  Sends documentation to client, the cost effective reimbursement worker and fiscal department.  Re-determine reimbursement amounts when any changes reported impact eligibility or premium costs.  Performs other duties of a comparable level or type, as required.

Successful candidates will have:

• High School Diploma or GED Equivalence 
• Minimum of 3 years related clerical experience that includes experience in a related industry or an equivalent combination of education and experience. 
• Valid Driver’s License
• Ability to pass a background check

How to Apply

Click https://secure6.entertimeonline.com/ta/6128339.jobs?ShowAllOpenings to complete an online application. First review of applications set to occur on Wednesday, October 7th, 2026. We will continue to review applications as we receive them.

*Steele County will contribute to HSA/VEBA $1,700 for single or $3,500 for family (if you elect to pay for our Medical insurance that is provided by Medica); other benefits that are available include dental, vision, life insurance, long term disability insurance, deferred compensation plan, pension plan, employee assistance program, paid time off, etc. 

Cost of living adjustment and pay increases per union contract. The pay range listed is our 2026 rates. We are currently set to receive a 4% cost of living adjustment on 1/1/2027.

Selection Process

Applicants will be rated based on their application materials and answers to the supplemental questionnaire. The information provided should clearly outline your work experience and skills and support your answers to the supplemental questions. Falsified information may result in disqualification for this position and future positions with Steele County.