Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist) – Spanish/English bilingual required

About the role

We are seeking a talented individual who has experience interviewing applicants to determine eligibility for programs and services through a trauma informed lens. This position plays a crucial role in the eligibility process for Oregon's most vulnerable community members.

Responsibilities

• Interview applicants in-person and by phone to gather and assess information for benefits we administer, such as SNAP, LTC services, TANF, ERDC, and various Medicaid programs.
• 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.
• Be responsible for 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

This position requires duties to be completed in both English and Spanish. The job offer will be contingent upon passing a test evaluating your proficiency in the bilingual requirements of the position. This position may receive a 5% differential pay based on passing the required language test.

Qualifications

• One (1) year of experience working at the Human Services Specialist 1 level for the State of Oregon;
• Two (2) 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 AND six (6) months of experience working with the public, providing assistance and interpreting and applying policies, rules, or guidelines;
• An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience relative to the class concept.

Essential Attributes

• Experience working in a social/human services setting interviewing customers over the phone and/or in person;
• Experience accurately applying complex rules and policies to various types of cases or circumstances;
• Experience serving a high volume of diverse customers in a trauma informed and culturally responsive manner;
• Experience developing collaborative relationships with colleagues that foster trust, inclusivity, and respect;
• Experience conducting work that requires attention to detail, particularly with data entry and reviewing documents.

Benefits

• Annual salary increases (until you reach the top of the listed salary range).
• Awarded candidate preference for eligible Veterans and Oregon National Guard servicemembers (current and former).
• Cost of Living Adjustments.
• Possible eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
• Amazing benefits package.

Pay

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%.

Schedule

Your work schedule will be 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday – Friday. Work is conducted in-office and in-person at our Alberta ODHS office on North Webster Street. May require sitting at a terminal or telephone for prolonged periods of the workday. You will interact with a wide range of people including some who have experienced trauma and may be experiencing emotional and/or financial distress.