FSS Foster Care Eligibility Specialist

WHY WORK FOR DFPS?

The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) is responsible for protecting the unprotected — children, elderly, and people with disabilities — from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. DFPS accomplishes this responsibility by employing over 12,000 workers who live up to the agency's Mission, Vision, & Values in service to the citizens of Texas. DFPS is not only a qualifying organization for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program but also offers excellent health benefits, special discounts on many products and services through the Discount Purchase Program, longevity pay, generous paid leave, access to the Wellness program, lifetime retirement annuity, Texa$aver 401(k) and 457 Programs under the Employees Retirement System of Texas.

Brief Job Description:

CPS FC Elig Spec II - The position determines eligibility for Title IV-E, State-paid, and Medical Assistance Only (MAO) types of eligibility using application forms, collateral contacts, and documentation entered in IMPACT in accordance with DFPS and Title IV-E policy requirements. The position requires verifying eligibility for kinship caregivers and making and reconciling payments.                                              The position interprets policy for staff, assumes administrative tasks to include training and special projects, updates eligibility status in IMPACT, and accesses the Health and Human Services Commission’s TIERS automation system for information verification. The position routinely interacts with Child Protective Services caseworkers, Program Directors, State Office Program Specialists, and other agency staff throughout the State.  

Essential Job Functions (EJFs):

Determines eligibility for Title IV-E, State, and Medical Assistance Only (MAO) types of Foster Care on new applications and reviews in accordance with DFPS and Title IV-E policy and timeliness requirements. Uses application forms to interpret and implement policy when determining eligibility type. Aids clients and agency staff in the resolution of Foster Care and Medicaid issues. Prepares temporary Medicaid letters for staff and updates Medicaid card addresses as needed. Reviews Authorized and Billing Service Levels. Researches, documents, and completes referrals to the Office of Attorney General for court-ordered child support payable to DFPS. Identifies children in DFPS custody receiving RSDI/SSI benefits and submits eligibility file to SSI Coordinator for handling. Prepares and maintains eligibility files. Completes Medicaid eligibility for ICPC cases accordance with DFPS policy and Local Office Procedures. Prepares training materials for instructing service delivery workers or other agency staff in eligibility requirements.  Promotes and demonstrates appropriate respect for cultural diversity among co-workers and all work-related contacts. Attends work regularly in accordance with agency leave policy. Performs other duties as assigned and required to maintain unit operations. 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs):
Knowledge of TANF, Food Stamp, and Medicaid policy and procedures. Knowledge and skill using the HHSC TIERS automation system. Knowledge and skill using Word, Excel, and Outlook and IMPACT. Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships. Effective verbal and written communication skills. Ability to work in a stressful environment and meet deadlines. Ability to identify problems and resolve problems. Ability to follow direction and work as a team. Ability to operate a personal computer. 

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:

None

Initial Screening Criteria:

Graduation from high school or equivalent. Two years full-time social service, human services work, eligibility determination, or TDFPS experience. Sixty semester hours from an accredited college or university may be substituted for the required experience. ****HHSC SNAP(Food Stamps), Medicaid, and TANF eligibility determination experience preferred. 

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Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information please see the Texas State Auditor’s Job Descriptions, Military Crosswalk and Military Crosswalk Guide at Texas State Auditor's Office - Job Descriptions. You may also contact the DFPS Military Liaison at dfpsmilvets@dfps.texas.gov with additional questions.

Applicants selected for hire must pass a background check and if applicable a driver’s record check.

As a state agency, DFPS is required by Texas Administrative Code (TAC 206 and 213) to ensure all Electronic Information Resources (EIR) follow accessibility standards. The staff must be familiar with the WCAG 2.1 AA and Section 508 to create accessible content including but not limited to; Microsoft Office documents, Adobe PDFs, webpages, software, training guides, video, and audio files. 

DFPS uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Employees must provide documentation to DFPS to show their identity and authorization to work in the US. Please review the following link for authorized documents: https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents .

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS/DFPS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS/DFPS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.