Benefits & Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist)

About the role

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) team is seeking a Benefits & Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist) to interview applicants and determine eligibility for programs and services through a trauma-informed lens. This meaningful career serves Oregon’s most vulnerable community members by providing timely, accurate, and necessary eligibility determinations using a person-centered approach.

Responsibilities

• Interview applicants in-person and by phone to gather and assess information for benefits such as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Long Term Care (LTC) services, Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF), Employment Related Day Care (ERDC), and various Medicaid programs.
• Perform eligibility determinations, redeterminations, and periodic reviews.
• Assist customers in-person and over the phone who are receiving or applying for benefits.
• Communicate eligibility decisions to applicants.
• Provide person-centered services with a trauma-informed approach to identify needs.
• Be responsible for accurate and timely eligibility determinations.
• Create a work environment where everyone feels welcomed, appreciated, and valued.
• Participate in professional development opportunities and ongoing education of cultural awareness.

Minimum Qualifications

• One year of experience working at the Human Services Specialist 1 level for the State of Oregon; or
• Two years of experience working with the public, providing assistance and interpreting and applying policies, rules, or guidelines; or
• An associate degree in a Behavioral Science, Social Science or a closely related field AND six months of experience working with the public, providing assistance and interpreting and applying policies, rules, or guidelines; or
• An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience relative to the class concept.

Essential Attributes

• Experience actively listening to customers and asking clarifying and open-ended questions to gather complete and relevant information.
• Experience accurately applying complex rules and policies to various types of cases or circumstances.
• Experience using computers to communicate by email, search for information online, enter or retrieve data, and learn new web-based applications.
• Experience using sound judgment, a trauma-informed approach and cultural responsiveness to identify successful solutions to barriers or conflicts.
• Experience developing collaborative relationships with colleagues and community partners that foster trust, inclusivity, and respect.
• Experience providing customer service with respect and compassion to community members who have historically been marginalized, underserved, in crisis, or disadvantaged.

Preference will be given to candidates who are bilingual in English and Spanish.

Working Conditions

• Work schedule generally 8 a.m.–5 p.m., Monday–Friday.
• Work conducted in person in the Eugene office; no remote opportunities.
• Extended periods of sitting at a computer terminal or using a telephone throughout the workday.
• Interaction with a diverse range of people, including individuals who may have experienced trauma or may be navigating emotional or financial challenges; requires professionalism, empathy, and respect.
• Reliable and consistent attendance required to support customers and maintain team operations.
• Flexibility and adaptability as policies, programs, procedures, and technology evolve and change over time.

Background Checks and Requirements

If selected as a finalist, a criminal history and background check will be conducted; adverse history may lead to disqualification. Within three days of hire, completion of the US Department of Homeland Security’s I-9 form confirming authorization to work in the United States is required. ODHS will use E-Verify to confirm work authorization.