Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist) Bilingual Preferred; English/Spanish)

Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred. You do not need to be bilingual to apply or be considered for this position.

About the Role

Imagine being the lifeline for families in need, ensuring they receive the essential services that can transform their lives. This is the vital role of a Benefit & Eligibility Worker, where your commitment to fostering well-being and stability shapes the future of communities across the state.

Responsibilities

• Determine program eligibility by:
  • Conducting phone or in-person interviews to gather household details, income, resources, and other key information to assess needs.
  • Conducting collateral interviews or reviewing supplemental materials as needed to make eligibility determinations for applicable ODHS programs.
  • Using relevant forms, computer systems, and tools to determine eligibility at intake, during benefit renewals, and when recipients report household changes.
  • Explaining applicant rights and responsibilities during the initial application interview and when benefits are changed and renewed.
• Process data in a timely manner to ensure delivery of benefits and services.
• Provide triage, information, and referrals by:
  • Working closely and collaboratively with Oregonians, other agencies, medical providers, and community partners to provide benefits, services, and information.
  • Supporting Oregonians with person-centered services using a trauma-informed approach to identify needs.

Requirements

• 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 role.

Skills

We are looking for candidates with:

• Experience communicating benefit and service decisions clearly, both verbally and in writing, while adapting the approach for diverse audiences.
• 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 interpreting and applying rules and regulations to daily work.
• Experience cooperating within a team to find solutions and make decisions that support agency goals.

Working Conditions

• This position requires in-office work, Monday – Friday, 8 AM – 5 PM.
• Travel may be required to meet business needs and/or attend employee training.
• Overtime or additional hours beyond the normal schedule is rare but may occur based on business needs.
• You may interact with individuals who have experienced trauma and may have difficulty managing their emotions.
• 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.
• Fast-paced environment with constantly evolving policies and procedures.
• Repetitive motions, high office noise levels, prolonged sitting, and daily computer and technology use.
• Good attendance and appropriate use of paid leave are required to ensure workload coverage for vacations and other leaves, as well as acceptable customer service for the Oregonians we serve.

Background Checks and Requirements

• If selected as a finalist, a criminal history and background check will be conducted. Adverse findings may lead to disqualification.
• The Oregon Department of Human Services does not offer visa sponsorship.
• Within three days of hire, you will be required to complete the US Department of Homeland Security’s I-9 form confirming authorization to work in the United States. ODHS will use E-Verify to confirm work authorization.
• A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record are required for this position.

Benefits

• ODHS Employee Resource Group communities that promote shared learning.
• 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.

Pay

$4,519 - $5,988 per month.

Schedule

Full-time, permanent position. This recruitment may be used to fill future vacancies in the same classification.

This position is represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU).