Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist) – 3 vacancies!

About the role

The Oregon Department of Human Services seeks Eligibility Workers to interview applicants to determine eligibility for various programs and services through the ONE eligibility system. OEP focuses on equity of services and provides timely, accurate, and necessary eligibility determinations through a person-centered approach.

Responsibilities

• Interview applicants in-person and by phone to gather and assess information for benefits like SNAP, LTC, TANF, ERDC, and Medicaid.
• Perform eligibility determinations, redeterminations, and periodic reviews.
• Aid 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.
• Ensure accurate and timely eligibility determinations.
• Create a welcoming work environment where everyone feels valued.
• Participate in professional development opportunities and ongoing education of cultural awareness.

Requirements

• One (1) year of experience working at the Human Services Specialist 1 level for the State of Oregon; OR
• Two (2) 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 (6) 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 remaining adaptable and patient as priorities and business needs shift throughout the day.
• 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 populations.
• Experience researching, interpreting, and applying policies and regulations in a work environment with frequently changing priorities.

Benefits

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

Schedule

Your work schedule will be 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday – Friday. Work is conducted in-office and in-person at our South Salem ODHS office. May require sitting at a terminal or telephone for prolonged periods of the workday.

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 available upon request.

Additional Information

The salary range listed is the non-PERS monthly salary range. If you are already a participating PERS member or once you become PERS eligible, the salary range will increase by 6.95%. 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

We invite you to contact the recruiter for accommodation requests under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), application questions or job-specific questions. The recruiter for this position is Alissa Walker. Email: ALISSA.WALKER@odhs.oregon.gov Phone (call or text): 503-519-1807