UI Adjudicator - Benefits and Eligibility Specialist

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: UI Adjudicator - Benefits and Eligibility Specialist

Company: S R INTERNATIONAL INC

Location: Phoenix, Arizona, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Government & Public Sector / Social Services / Customer Service & Support / Administrative Operations

Date Posted: August 19, 2026

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role involves the critical function of adjudicating applications for public assistance programs, requiring meticulous review and determination of applicant eligibility.

• The position demands strong interpersonal and communication skills for conducting interactive interviews, gathering facts, and explaining complex rules and policies to a diverse applicant pool.

• It necessitates a high degree of accuracy in data verification and fact-checking to ensure compliance with program guidelines and regulations.

• The role plays a vital part in ensuring that eligible individuals receive the necessary benefits by providing guidance and support throughout the application process.

• This position is an on-site role, requiring dedicated physical presence in the Phoenix, AZ office, with specific requirements for local candidates and expedited onboarding.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title "UI Adjudicator" and "Benefits and Eligibility Specialist" are provided, the core responsibilities described lean heavily into public assistance program adjudication rather than typical unemployment insurance (UI). The focus on "public assistance programs" and "benefits" suggests a broader scope within social services or government aid administration. The "UI" in the title might refer to "Universal Income" or a specific internal program name, but based on the description, it's crucial for applicants to understand the role is primarily about determining eligibility for various aid programs.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive reviews of applications for various public assistance programs, ensuring all submitted information is accurate and complete.

• Perform interactive interviews with applicants to gather necessary facts, clarify information, and assess eligibility criteria for public assistance.

• Verify the accuracy of information provided on application forms through diligent fact-checking and cross-referencing.

• Clearly explain program rules, policies, and eligibility requirements to claimants, representatives, and relevant stakeholders.

• Communicate effectively with applicants and recipients to address concerns, resolve issues, and guide them toward appropriate benefit programs.

• Solicit and gather essential information from various sources, including applicants, employers, and state/federal agencies, to make informed qualification determinations.

• Maintain detailed and accurate records of applicant interactions, decisions, and case progress, ensuring compliance with documentation standards.

• Travel may be required for off-site meetings, training sessions, or conferences, necessitating flexibility and reliable transportation.

• Follow up with applicants multiple times as needed to ensure all necessary information is obtained for a complete eligibility assessment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description emphasizes the interactive and investigative nature of the role, highlighting "interactive interviewing and fact gathering" and the need for "follow up with applicants a number of times." This suggests a process that is not purely form-based but requires proactive engagement and problem-solving to ensure accurate eligibility determination.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High School Diploma or equivalent required.

Experience: A minimum of 2 years of customer service experience is mandatory.

Required Skills:

• Customer Service Excellence: Proven ability to provide empathetic, efficient, and professional support to diverse individuals, managing sensitive situations with tact and discretion.

• On-site Work Capability: Must be able to work reliably on-site in Phoenix, AZ, and possess dependable transportation to commute to the office daily.

• Verbal Communication Proficiency: Articulate and clear in explaining complex policies, procedures, and decisions to applicants and stakeholders.

• Written Communication Proficiency: Ability to document interactions, decisions, and case notes accurately and concisely in written form.

• Fact-Gathering & Interviewing: Skilled in conducting structured interviews, asking probing questions, and systematically gathering information to assess eligibility.

• Data Accuracy & Verification: Meticulous attention to detail to ensure the accuracy of application data and verify critical information.

• Policy Interpretation: Capacity to understand and apply complex government rules and program policies to individual case circumstances.

Preferred Skills:

• Eligibility Review Experience: Prior experience specifically performing eligibility reviews for public assistance programs (e.g., SNAP, TANF, Medicaid, housing assistance).

• Insurance Adjudicator Experience: Familiarity with the adjudication process in insurance or similar fields, involving claim review, policy interpretation, and decision-making.

• Case Management Software Proficiency: Experience with government or social services case management systems.

• Conflict Resolution: Ability to de-escalate tense situations and resolve disputes or concerns effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "2+ Years of Customer Service experience" is a baseline, but the preferred skills strongly indicate that candidates with direct experience in eligibility determination or claims adjudication will have a significant advantage. The emphasis on "local only" and immediate start date suggests a need for candidates already residing in the Phoenix area with minimal relocation or onboarding delays.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Case Study Examples: Demonstrate experience in evaluating applications, gathering supporting documentation, and making eligibility determinations, clearly outlining the process followed.

• Communication Samples: Provide examples of written correspondence (e.g., decision letters, follow-up requests) that clearly explain complex policies and outcomes to applicants.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Showcase instances where you had to overcome challenges in fact-gathering or applicant communication to reach a resolution.

• Process Improvement Contributions: If applicable, highlight any contributions made to streamline application review processes or improve data accuracy within previous roles.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Ability to understand and adhere to established workflows for application processing and eligibility determination, with potential to suggest minor improvements.

• Implementation & Adherence: Demonstrate strict adherence to established procedural guidelines and policy requirements throughout the adjudication process.

• Measurement & Analysis: While not explicitly stated, a strong candidate will be able to articulate how they ensure their decisions are accurate and compliant, implicitly showing an understanding of performance measurement.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an on-site role focused on direct adjudication, a formal portfolio might not be a strict requirement for initial application. However, candidates should be prepared to discuss their process, decision-making framework, and problem-solving approaches during interviews, effectively presenting their "portfolio of experience" through detailed examples and case discussions. The emphasis is on demonstrating practical application of skills rather than a formal submission of documents.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $18.00 per hour.

• Methodology: This figure is provided directly by the employer. Based on the provided hourly rate and standard full-time work hours (40 hours/week), this translates to an approximate annual salary of $37,440. For entry-level to mid-level Benefits and Eligibility Specialists in Phoenix, AZ, this rate is within the typical market range, considering the specific requirements of public assistance program adjudication.

Benefits:

• Full-Time Employment: Access to full-time benefits package as per S R INTERNATIONAL INC policy.

• Comprehensive Training: 7 weeks of intensive, in-person training provided to equip specialists with the necessary skills and knowledge for the role.

• Potential for Conversion: Opportunity to transition to a Full-Time Employee (FTE) position after the contract period, subject to performance and business needs.

• Healthcare & Retirement: (Assumed) Standard benefits typically include health insurance, dental, vision, and retirement savings plans for FTE conversions.

• Paid Time Off: (Assumed) PTO, sick leave, and holiday pay are generally provided for full-time employees.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week, full-time. The role requires consistent on-site presence during standard business hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hourly rate of $18.00 is a specific figure provided. The "Notes" mention that "Resources may be transitioned to FTE after this training period," and a "total conversion fee payable is capped at a maximum of $2,000" if converted. This implies the initial role might be contract-based, with a clear path and associated costs for conversion to permanent employment. Benefits for the contract period are not detailed but are expected for FTE status.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Staffing & Human Resources / Government Services. S R INTERNATIONAL INC appears to specialize in providing staffing solutions, potentially including specialized roles for government agencies. The role of UI Adjudicator is within the public sector, suggesting a focus on government contracts and public service delivery.

Company Size: The provided data does not specify the exact size of S R INTERNATIONAL INC. However, as a staffing and HR solutions provider, they likely operate with a lean internal team managing a larger pool of contract resources.

Founded: Founded in 1984, S R INTERNATIONAL INC has a long-standing history in the staffing industry, indicating stability and established processes for candidate sourcing and placement.

Team Structure:

• Operations Team: The direct team will likely consist of fellow UI Adjudicators, potentially supervised by a Team Lead or Operations Manager responsible for overseeing the adjudication process and ensuring service delivery to the government agency client.

• Reporting Structure: Adjudicators will report to a direct supervisor within S R INTERNATIONAL INC who manages contractor performance and client relations. The ultimate client is a state agency.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: While primarily focused on individual case adjudication, collaboration will occur with other adjudicators for policy clarification, supervisors for complex cases, and potentially with client agency representatives during training or performance reviews.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decisions: Eligibility determinations are based on objective criteria derived from applicant information and program policies.

• Process Adherence: A strong emphasis on following established protocols and procedures to ensure consistency and compliance in decision-making.

• Efficiency & Accuracy: The team aims to process applications efficiently while maintaining a high level of accuracy to meet client service level agreements.

Company Website: https://www.sriiusa.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the company's focus on staffing, the "team" structure for this role is two-fold: the internal team at S R INTERNATIONAL INC managing the contractor, and the team at the client government agency where the adjudicator will be working. The culture will likely reflect a blend of corporate staffing expectations and government agency operational protocols.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as an entry-to-mid-level specialist position within the public sector operations domain. It requires specific procedural knowledge and customer interaction skills, serving as a foundational role for those interested in public benefits administration or government contract work.

Reporting Structure: The UI Adjudicator will report to a supervisor at S R INTERNATIONAL INC, who in turn manages the relationship with the state agency client. The day-to-day work environment will be on-site at the client agency.

Operations Impact: The role directly impacts the efficient and accurate distribution of public assistance benefits, ensuring that eligible citizens receive necessary support and that program funds are allocated appropriately according to regulations. This is critical for community welfare and government program integrity.

Growth Opportunities:

• Full-Time Conversion: Successful completion of the initial period and strong performance can lead to conversion into a permanent, full-time employee role with S R INTERNATIONAL INC or potentially with the client state agency, offering more stability and comprehensive benefits.

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in public assistance programs, eligibility criteria, and adjudication processes, becoming a subject matter expert.

• Advancement within Staffing: Potential to move into roles within S R INTERNATIONAL INC such as recruiter, account manager, or operations coordinator, leveraging experience gained in client-facing contract roles.

• Government Sector Career Path: For those interested in public service, this role can be a stepping stone to other positions within state government agencies related to social services, benefits administration, or program management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path here is bifurcated: growth within the staffing agency (S R INTERNATIONAL INC) or potential long-term career progression within the government sector client. The "7 weeks roughly, all in person" training is a significant investment by the employer, signaling a commitment to developing resources for the client, which in turn creates a strong incentive for successful trainees to seek conversion or further opportunities.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is strictly on-site, requiring physical presence at a designated office location in Phoenix, AZ. This environment is likely a government agency office or a dedicated facility managed by S R INTERNATIONAL INC for its contract employees.

Office Location(s): Phoenix, Arizona, 85007. Candidates must be local to this area and possess reliable transportation. Proximity and ability to commute are essential.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: While individual case management is primary, the work is performed within a team of adjudicators, fostering a collaborative atmosphere for policy clarification and problem-solving.

• Tools & Technology: The workspace will be equipped with the necessary technology for application processing, including computers, phones, and potentially specialized software for eligibility determination and case management.

• Team Interaction: Regular interaction with supervisors and colleagues is expected, facilitating knowledge sharing and operational coordination within the adjudication team.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time hours (40 hours/week) are expected. The exact daily schedule will be determined by the client agency's operational needs. Flexibility may be limited due to the on-site and government agency nature of the work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "local only candidates," "comfortable working onsite," and "reliable transportation" underscores the importance of the physical work environment and commute for this role. The training is also explicitly "all in person," indicating a hands-on, collaborative learning approach within a physical setting.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely conducted by S R INTERNATIONAL INC to assess basic qualifications, customer service experience, and availability.

• On-site Interview: A mandatory in-person interview in Phoenix, AZ, to evaluate communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and cultural fit for the role and client agency. This interview will likely involve behavioral questions and scenario-based assessments.

• Skills Assessment: May include a practical exercise or a review of past relevant work to gauge proficiency in fact-gathering, policy interpretation, and customer interaction.

• Background & Drug Screening: Required through HireRight as part of the onboarding process for all candidates.

• Offer & Onboarding: Expedited onboarding is required, with a mandatory start date of September 8, 2026.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Process: Be prepared to walk through your typical process for handling customer inquiries, reviewing applications, and making decisions. Highlight your structured approach to fact-gathering and verification.

• Highlight Communication: Provide specific examples of how you have explained complex information (e.g., policies, eligibility rules) to individuals with varying levels of understanding. Showcase written communication clarity through examples if possible.

• Demonstrate Problem-Solving: Be ready to discuss challenging cases you've handled, how you identified the core issue, what steps you took to gather information, and how you arrived at a resolution.

• Emphasize Accuracy & Compliance: Articulate your commitment to data accuracy and adherence to regulations. Explain how you ensure your decisions are compliant with program guidelines.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Anticipate questions that present hypothetical applicant scenarios and ask how you would proceed to determine eligibility, manage concerns, or explain policies.

• Policy Interpretation Exercises: Be ready to interpret a simplified policy or rule and apply it to a given situation.

• Customer Interaction Role-Playing: Prepare for potential role-playing exercises to demonstrate your ability to handle difficult conversations or gather information effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "expedited onboarding" and "MUST be able to start on 9/8/2026" are critical. Candidates must be local, available for interviews quickly, and ready to begin work shortly after an offer. The emphasis on "local only" suggests that candidates from outside the Phoenix area will likely not be considered due to the immediate on-site requirement.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CRM/Case Management Software: Likely a proprietary government system or a specialized platform for managing public assistance applications, applicant data, and case progress. Candidates should be adaptable to learning new systems quickly.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Proficiency in Word for documentation, Excel for data tracking (if applicable), and Outlook for communication is expected.

• Communication Tools: Standard office phones, potentially VoIP systems, and internal messaging platforms.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Internal Reporting Tools: The government agency client will likely have internal systems for tracking application volume, processing times, and eligibility outcomes. Adjudicators contribute to this data through their case management.

• Spreadsheet Software (Excel): May be used for personal tracking or basic analysis if required, though primary reporting is likely system-generated.

CRM & Automation:

• Data Entry Systems: The core function involves accurate and timely data entry into case management systems to record applicant information, interview notes, and eligibility decisions.

• Workflow Systems: The adjudication process itself is a defined workflow, and the systems used will likely guide users through each step.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific software names aren't listed, the description points to systems designed for managing sensitive applicant data and compliance-driven processes. Adaptability and a strong foundation in data management and system navigation are key. The emphasis on "fact gathering" and "verifying information" suggests the need for robust data input and integrity within these systems.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity & Fairness: Upholding the principles of impartiality and equity in determining eligibility for public assistance programs.

• Service Orientation: A commitment to assisting applicants with their needs while adhering strictly to program guidelines and policies.

• Accuracy & Diligence: A focus on meticulous detail and thoroughness in reviewing applications and verifying information to ensure correct outcomes.

• Confidentiality: Strict adherence to privacy regulations regarding applicant information.

• Compliance: A deep respect for and adherence to all relevant government regulations and agency policies.

Collaboration Style:

• Team-Oriented: Working collaboratively with fellow adjudicators to share knowledge, clarify policies, and ensure consistent application of rules.

• Supervisory Guidance: Responsive to direction and feedback from supervisors, seeking clarification on complex cases or procedural questions.

• Client-Focused: Maintaining a professional and helpful demeanor when interacting with applicants, representing the standards of both S R INTERNATIONAL INC and the client government agency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture is likely characterized by a strong sense of public service, adherence to protocol, and a need for precision. The environment will be structured and process-driven, reflecting the regulatory nature of public assistance programs.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing High Volume: Adjudicating a potentially large number of applications efficiently while maintaining accuracy and quality.

• Complex Case Scenarios: Encountering unique or complex applicant situations that require in-depth investigation and interpretation of policies.

• Applicant Stress & Frustration: Dealing with applicants who may be experiencing financial hardship or distress, requiring patience and empathy.

• Policy Changes: Adapting quickly to evolving program rules, regulations, and procedural updates.

• Expedited Onboarding & Start Date: The immediate need to start on a specific date (9/8/2026) and the requirement for local candidates can be a challenge for some applicants.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Intensive Training Program: 7 weeks of dedicated, in-person training provides a robust foundation in public assistance program adjudication.

• On-the-Job Skill Development: Continuous learning through hands-on experience with diverse cases and ongoing exposure to program policies.

• Potential for Certification: Depending on the specific programs administered by the client agency, there may be opportunities for specialized certifications.

• Career Transition Support: If converted to FTE, access to broader company-sponsored training and development programs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenge for applicants is meeting the stringent timeline and location requirements. For those who do, the intensive training and direct experience offer significant practical learning in a critical sector.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Scenario-Based: "An applicant provides incomplete documentation for [specific benefit]. How would you proceed to gather the necessary information and explain the requirement to them?" (Focus on your process, communication, and policy adherence.)

• Policy Application: "Given [simplified policy description], how would you determine eligibility for an applicant with [specific circumstance]?" (Demonstrate your ability to interpret and apply rules.)

• Customer Service: "Describe a time you had to handle a difficult or frustrated customer. How did you de-escalate the situation and resolve their issue?" (Highlight empathy, patience, and problem-solving.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working for S R INTERNATIONAL INC and specifically in a role supporting public assistance programs?" (Show research into the company and genuine interest in public service.)

• "What does 'working on-site' mean to you, and what are your expectations for a typical work environment?" (Confirm understanding of the on-site requirement and your adaptability.)

• "How do you ensure accuracy and attention to detail in your work, especially when dealing with large volumes of information?" (Focus on your methodical approach and commitment to quality.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on Process, Not Just Results: For this role, demonstrating how you arrive at a decision is as important as the decision itself. Walk interviewers through your step-by-step approach to reviewing applications and gathering facts.

• Use Concrete Examples: Instead of general statements, use specific anecdotes from your customer service or relevant experience to illustrate your skills (e.g., "In my previous role at X, I handled a situation where...").

• Highlight Communication Skills: Be articulate and clear in your responses. If asked about written communication, describe your approach to drafting professional and informative documents.

• Emphasize Adaptability: Given the training and potential conversion, show that you are a quick learner and eager to adapt to new systems and procedures.

📝 Enhancement Note: Be prepared to discuss your experience with "fact gathering" and "interactive interviewing" in detail. Since this is a government-adjacent role, demonstrating a strong understanding of policy, compliance, and customer service in a regulated environment is key. Your ability to explain complex information clearly and patiently will be heavily scrutinized.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the S R INTERNATIONAL INC career portal.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight at least 2 years of customer service experience and any relevant experience in eligibility reviews or insurance adjudication. Clearly state your current location in Phoenix, AZ, and confirm your ability to work on-site.

• Highlight Key Skills: Ensure your resume and cover letter (if applicable) explicitly mention strong written and verbal communication skills, experience with fact-gathering and interviewing, and attention to detail.

• Prepare for Expedited Process: Be ready for a swift interview process. Ensure your availability for an in-person interview within one week of the posting close date and your readiness to start by September 8, 2026.

• Research Company & Role: Familiarize yourself with S R INTERNATIONAL INC and the nature of public assistance program adjudication to articulate your interest and suitability during interviews.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions. Pay close attention to the strict start date and local candidate requirements.