Eligibility Worker (Public Benefit Specialist) Astoria - Bilingual English/Spanish Preferred

About the role

The Oregon Department of Human Services is seeking an Eligibility Worker to join the Oregon Eligibility Partnership. This program focuses on providing a coordinated service strategy to ensure timely delivery of eligibility benefits for Oregonians. The primary responsibilities include making eligibility determinations for various programs, conducting redeterminations, and ensuring appropriate documentation and communication.

Responsibilities

• Conduct interviews or review supplemental materials to make eligibility determinations for applicable ODHS programs.
• Complete redetermination, periodic reviews, and change updates within federal timeframes and intervals.
• Ensure appropriate documentation and forms are completed and sent, and information is captured correctly.
• Note actions taken and communicate eligibility decisions to applicants within the appropriate timeframe.
• Support Oregonians by providing person-centered services with a trauma-informed approach to identify needs.
• Identify needs and refer to other agencies and resources as needed to assist the applicant.
• Handle and protect sensitive and confidential information appropriately.

Requirements

This position requires one year of experience working at the Human Services Specialist 1 level for the State of Oregon; two years of experience working with the public, providing assistance, and interpreting and applying policies, rules, or guidelines; an associate degree in a Behavioral Science, Social Science, or a closely related field with six months of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

Essential Attributes

• Experience remaining adaptable and patient as priorities and business needs shift.
• Experience conducting work that requires attention to detail, particularly with data entry and reviewing documents.
• Experience collaborating and communicating effectively both verbally and in writing with customers, colleagues, and diverse communities.
• Experience researching, interpreting, and applying policies and regulations in a work environment with frequently changing priorities.

Qualifications

To be considered, candidates must clearly describe how they meet the minimum qualifications and essential attributes in their application materials. Detailed work and education history should be included. A degree listed as a minimum qualification may require verification of completion before proceeding.

Benefits

• Cost of Living Adjustments.
• Annual salary increases (until reaching the top of the listed salary range).
• Awesome benefits package.
• Possible eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Pay

The salary range for this position is $4,519 - $5,988 per month, non-PERS. If you are already a participating PERS member or become eligible, the salary range will increase by 6.95%.

Schedule

Your work schedule will be 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Monday – Friday Pacific Standard Time (PST). Occasional overtime may be available. Travel may be required to meet business needs or attend employee training classes. Must possess a valid driver's license and acceptable driving record to use state vehicles.

Working Conditions

You will work in an office environment in person, interacting with a wide range of people, including those who have experienced trauma. Work may be reviewed by leads, supervisors, Quality Assurance, audits, or through other quality activities such as reviewing information in ONE or phone calls with Oregonians.

Background Checks and Requirements

If selected as a finalist, we will conduct a criminal history and background check. Adverse criminal history or background check may lead to disqualification. Additional background check information is provided.

Employment Preference

Veterans' and Oregon National Guard preference eligible veterans and Oregon National Guard servicemembers (current and former) who meet the qualifications of the position will be awarded candidate preference. For more information, please visit Veterans Resources.

Contact Information

Please contact the recruiter for accommodation requests under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and application or Job-specific questions. Include the job requisition number in your inquiries.