UI Adjudicator (Benefits & Eligibility Specialist) – State Agency – $18.61/hr W2 – 15 Openings – Phoenix Onsite – No Interview

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: UI Adjudicator (Benefits & Eligibility Specialist)

Company: SunSoft Online (Contracting for an Arizona State Agency)

Location: Phoenix, Arizona, United States (Onsite)

Job Type: Full-time (Contractor, with potential for permanent state employment)

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

Date Posted: 2026-09-09

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: 100% Onsite

🚀 Role Summary

• This role involves critical adjudication of applications for public assistance programs, requiring meticulous review and determination of claimant eligibility.

• Successful candidates will engage in direct communication with applicants through interactive interviewing to gather facts, address concerns, and explain complex program rules and policies.

• The position necessitates a strong understanding of eligibility criteria and the ability to interpret and apply state and federal regulations consistently.

• This is a high-volume, fast-paced environment with a significant impact on individuals and families seeking essential public services.

📝 Enhancement Note: The job title "UI Adjudicator" strongly suggests a focus on Unemployment Insurance benefits, but the description broadens this to "public assistance programs," implying a wider scope including potential benefits like SNAP, TANF, or Medicaid. The "no interview" aspect for selection is unusual and highlights the importance of a well-structured application file.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough reviews of applications for various public assistance programs, ensuring all required documentation is present and accurate.

• Perform interactive interviews with applicants to gather necessary information, clarify details, and assess eligibility based on established program guidelines.

• Verify application data against supporting documents and conduct follow-up actions as needed to resolve discrepancies or obtain missing information.

• Clearly communicate program rules, policies, and eligibility requirements to claimants, their representatives, employers, medical professionals, and relevant state and federal agencies.

• Make informed qualification determinations based on collected facts, interview outcomes, and regulatory requirements, documenting all decisions and rationale meticulously.

• Maintain accurate and comprehensive case files, ensuring all interactions, findings, and decisions are recorded in compliance with agency standards.

• Adhere to strict timelines for application processing and decision-making to ensure timely service delivery to applicants.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibility is "determining eligibility," which is a key function in many government and insurance operations roles. The emphasis on "interactive interviewing" and "fact gathering" indicates a need for strong interpersonal and investigative skills, typical of roles involving case management or claims adjudication.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High School Diploma or equivalent is required. Experience:

• A minimum of 2 years of customer service experience is mandatory.

• Experience performing eligibility reviews for public assistance programs is preferred.

• Previous insurance adjudicator experience is considered a strong asset. Required Skills:

• Customer Service Excellence: Proven ability to interact professionally and empathetically with diverse individuals, often under stressful circumstances.

• Eligibility Determination: Demonstrated capability to assess applications against established criteria and make informed decisions.

• Interviewing & Fact Gathering: Skill in conducting structured interviews to elicit accurate information and uncover relevant details.

• Communication Proficiency: Strong written and verbal communication skills for explaining complex policies and documenting findings clearly.

• Problem-Solving: Ability to analyze applicant situations, identify issues, and develop appropriate resolutions.

• Attention to Detail: Meticulous approach to reviewing applications, verifying data, and ensuring accuracy.

• U.S. Citizenship or Green Card Holder: Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.

• Reliable Transportation: Essential for attending mandatory onsite training and work.

Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with public assistance programs (e.g., SNAP, TANF, Medicaid, Unemployment Insurance).

• Experience with case management systems and processes.

• Ability to interpret and apply complex regulations and policies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "no interview" selection process implies that the application file, including resume and any accompanying documentation, will be heavily scrutinized. Therefore, clearly articulating the 2+ years of customer service experience and any relevant eligibility or adjudication experience is paramount. Highlighting skills in "fact gathering," "policy interpretation," and "case management" will be crucial.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Case Study Examples: Showcase at least one detailed example of how you assessed an applicant's situation, gathered facts, interpreted policies, and reached an eligibility determination. Focus on the process and rationale.

• Documentation Samples: If possible, anonymized examples of clear and concise documentation of customer interactions, findings, and decisions. This demonstrates attention to detail and communication clarity.

• Process Improvement Ideas: Briefly outline any experience you have in suggesting or implementing improvements to customer service or eligibility processes, focusing on efficiency and accuracy.

• Metrics & Outcomes: Quantify achievements where possible, such as average call/interaction handling time, customer satisfaction scores, or accuracy rates in previous roles.

Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate an understanding of structured processes for application review, including initial screening, information gathering, verification, and final determination.

• Highlight experience with documenting interactions and decisions in a clear, logical, and compliant manner.

• Showcase an ability to follow established workflows and protocols precisely, while also being able to identify when further investigation or escalation is required.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal portfolio might not be explicitly requested due to the "no interview" process, preparing a concise summary of relevant experiences and quantifiable achievements that can be quickly reviewed is highly advisable. This summary should highlight how your past work aligns with the core responsibilities of eligibility adjudication and customer service.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• $18.61 per hour (W2 employment) Benefits:

• Potential for transition to permanent state employment after successful completion of the assignment and training.

• Exposure to government agency operations and public service.

• Structured training program provided. Working Hours:

• Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (40 hours per week).

• A strict onsite presence is required.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hourly rate of $18.61/hr W2 positions this role at a mid-level for contract positions requiring customer service and administrative skills in Phoenix. Benefits are limited for contract roles, but the stated potential for permanent state employment is a significant draw, offering stability and a comprehensive state benefits package typically associated with government roles.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Government & Public Sector / Staffing Services (SunSoft Online as the staffing agency)

Company Size: SunSoft Online is a staffing firm, likely operating with a moderate to large number of employees to manage multiple placements. The client agency is a state government entity.

Founded: Information not directly provided for SunSoft Online. The state agency is a long-standing public institution.

Team Structure:

• UI Adjudicators will likely be part of a larger departmental team within the state agency, focusing on a specific set of public assistance programs.

• The team will consist of other adjudicators, supervisors, and potentially support staff responsible for case management and program administration.

• Collaboration will involve working closely with supervisors for guidance, and potentially with other departments for cross-program eligibility verification. Methodology:

• The agency operates under strict regulatory frameworks and established protocols for eligibility determination and case management.

• Emphasis is placed on accuracy, fairness, and adherence to policy to ensure equitable distribution of public resources.

• Data-driven decision-making, supported by verified facts and applicant interviews, is the core operational methodology.

Company Website: http://SunSoftonline.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Working for a state agency means operating within a structured, bureaucratic environment that prioritizes compliance and standardized processes. While SunSoft Online is the employer of record for W2 purposes, the day-to-day work and operational procedures will be dictated by the state agency.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry to Mid-Level (Contractor)

• This role is positioned as an Adjudicator, requiring specific skills in fact-finding, policy interpretation, and customer interaction. It is not a purely administrative support role but involves decision-making authority within defined parameters. Reporting Structure:

• Contractors will report to a designated supervisor or team lead within the state agency.

• The supervisor will oversee training, provide guidance on complex cases, and monitor performance. Operations Impact:

• This role directly impacts the lives of citizens by determining their access to essential public assistance programs.

• Accurate and timely adjudication ensures the integrity of public funds and supports individuals and families in need.

• The efficiency of adjudicators contributes to the overall effectiveness and public perception of the state agency's services. Growth Opportunities:

• Permanent State Employment: The most significant growth opportunity is the potential transition to a permanent, full-time state employee role after the initial contract period. This would typically come with a comprehensive benefits package, job security, and further career advancement within the state system.

• Skill Development: Intensive 7-week training will provide foundational knowledge in public assistance programs, adjudication processes, and customer service within a government context.

• Specialization: Potential to specialize in specific program areas (e.g., Unemployment Insurance, SNAP, Medicaid) if permanent roles become available in those units.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "no interview" aspect and the expedited onboarding suggest a high-demand role with a critical need for staff. The pathway to permanent state employment is a key differentiator and should be a primary consideration for candidates. Understanding the typical career progression within Arizona state agencies for roles like this would be beneficial.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: 100% Onsite within a state government agency building.

Office Location(s): 1789 W Jefferson St, Phoenix, Arizona. This is a central Phoenix location.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely be a cubicle or dedicated desk within a larger office setting.

• Access to necessary computer systems, software, and communication tools will be provided.

• Collaboration will occur within the immediate team and with supervisors, with a focus on individual task completion and adherence to protocols.

• The environment is expected to be professional and structured, with a focus on compliance and service delivery. Work Schedule:

• Standard business hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

• The role requires a consistent onsite presence, with no remote work flexibility.

• Expedited onboarding and mandatory start date of October 5, 2026, indicate a need for immediate availability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The location at 1789 W Jefferson St is a significant state government complex in Phoenix, suggesting a large, formal office environment. The requirement for 100% onsite presence and a specific start date are critical logistical points for applicants.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• No Interview Selection: Candidates will be selected based solely on their submitted application files (resume, etc.). This emphasizes the importance of a clear, well-organized, and achievement-oriented resume.

• Background Check & Drug Screening: All selected candidates must pass a HireRight background check and a drug screening.

• Expedited Onboarding & Training: Successful candidates must be available for an immediate start on October 5, 2026, and undergo 7 weeks of intensive in-person training.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly highlights at least 2 years of customer service experience and any experience with eligibility reviews, claims adjudication, or public assistance programs. Use keywords from the job description.

• Quantifiable Achievements: Wherever possible, quantify your accomplishments. For example, "Handled an average of X customer inquiries per day," or "Maintained an accuracy rate of X% in eligibility assessments."

• Clarity and Conciseness: Since there's no interview, your resume must speak for itself. Ensure it's easy to read, free of errors, and directly addresses the key requirements.

• Proof of Residency: Be sure to include your Phoenix metro residency on your resume as requested.

Challenge Preparation:

• While there isn't a formal "challenge" in the interview sense, the 7-week training period serves as a significant evaluation phase. Success in training is crucial for transitioning to permanent employment.

• Be prepared to demonstrate your ability to learn quickly, absorb new information, and apply it in practical scenarios during training.

📝 Enhancement Note: The absence of an interview is a critical piece of information. Applicants must ensure their resume is meticulously crafted to showcase all required qualifications and preferred experience. Highlighting "customer service," "eligibility," and "fact gathering" will be key.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• State Agency Software: Specific case management and eligibility determination software used by the Arizona state agency. This will be learned during training.

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

Analytics & Reporting:

• Internal agency systems for tracking case progress, applicant status, and team performance.

• Reporting tools to monitor individual productivity and adherence to service level agreements. CRM & Automation:

• Likely a government-specific case management system that functions similarly to a CRM for tracking applicant interactions and case history.

• Automation may be present in form processing or initial data entry, but adjudication requires significant human judgment.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific software names are not listed, candidates should emphasize their ability to quickly learn new software systems and their experience with typical office productivity tools. The training program will cover the specialized government systems.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity & Fairness: Upholding the principles of equitable access to public assistance and ensuring all decisions are made impartially.

• Service-Oriented: A commitment to serving the public and assisting individuals in navigating essential government programs.

• Accuracy & Compliance: Strict adherence to policies, regulations, and procedures to maintain program integrity and avoid errors.

• Efficiency: Balancing thoroughness with the need to process applications in a timely manner to meet demand.

• Professionalism: Maintaining a high standard of conduct and communication in all interactions.

Collaboration Style:

• Team members are expected to support each other and share information relevant to case resolution.

• Supervisors are a primary point of contact for guidance and escalation.

• Communication channels will be formal, utilizing agency-approved methods.

• A culture of continuous learning and process adherence is typical in government settings.

📝 Enhancement Note: Government agency culture often emphasizes process, compliance, and a strong sense of public duty. Candidates who thrive in structured environments and value public service will likely find this culture appealing.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• High Volume Caseload: Managing a significant number of applications and interviews within strict deadlines.

• Complex Regulations: Interpreting and applying intricate and sometimes changing program rules and policies.

• Challenging Interactions: Dealing with applicants who may be distressed, confused, or demanding.

• Learning Curve: Rapidly acquiring knowledge of multiple public assistance programs and agency systems during the 7-week training.

• Onsite Requirement: Maintaining consistent physical presence in Phoenix for the duration of the assignment.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Comprehensive Training: 7 weeks of dedicated, in-person training covering program specifics, adjudication processes, and system usage.

• On-the-Job Learning: Gaining practical experience in a critical public service sector.

• Potential for Permanent Role: The opportunity to transition into a stable state government position with a full benefits package.

• Government Operations Exposure: Understanding the operational framework of a state agency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for eligibility adjudicator roles, particularly in high-demand public service areas. The key growth opportunity is the direct path to permanent state employment, which offers significant long-term career advantages over typical contract roles.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Case Study Scenario: Be prepared to discuss how you would approach a hypothetical applicant scenario. For example: "An applicant provides incomplete documentation for SNAP benefits. What steps would you take to determine eligibility?" Focus on your process: fact-gathering, communication, policy application.

• Customer Service Philosophy: Explain your approach to handling difficult customers or challenging situations. Highlight empathy, problem-solving, and de-escalation techniques.

• Policy Interpretation: How do you ensure you understand and correctly apply complex rules and regulations? Emphasize your attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Motivation for Public Service: Why are you interested in working for a state agency and serving the public?

• Teamwork: Describe a time you worked effectively within a team to achieve a common goal.

• Adaptability: How do you handle rapid learning and adapting to new processes or systems?

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Since there's no interview, your resume is your "portfolio." Ensure it clearly articulates your customer service experience, any eligibility review work, and your ability to follow procedures.

• Use action verbs and quantify achievements to demonstrate impact.

• Make sure your resume explicitly states your Phoenix metro residency and your U.S. citizenship or green card status.

📝 Enhancement Note: While there's no formal interview, candidates should mentally prepare for how they would answer these types of questions if asked during training or onboarding, as these are the underlying competencies the agency is looking for. The training itself will be the primary assessment.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on SunSoft Online's Zoho Recruit portal.

• Resume Crafting: Ensure your resume meticulously details your 2+ years of customer service experience, any eligibility review or adjudication experience, and explicitly states your Phoenix metro residency and U.S. citizenship/green card status. Use keywords from the job description.

• Highlight Relevant Experience: Clearly articulate your ability to perform fact-gathering, interactive interviewing, and policy interpretation.

• Availability Confirmation: Be ready to confirm your immediate availability for the October 5, 2026, start date and your commitment to the 7-week onsite training program.

• Background Check Readiness: Understand that a HireRight background check and drug screening are mandatory for selected candidates.

⚠️ 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.