Public Benefits Specialist

About the role

The Oregon Department of Human Services is seeking a Public Benefits Specialist to join their team in The Dalles office. This role involves performing eligibility determinations, redeterminations, periodic reviews, and updates to changes for various state and federal programs. The ideal candidate will interview applicants in person and by phone, assess client family strengths and needs, and connect families to other resources and programs.

Responsibilities

• Perform eligibility determinations, redeterminations, periodic reviews, and updates to changes for ODHS, OHA, and DELC programs.
• Interview applicants in person and by phone to gather information needed to assess and determine if there is a need for services and benefits.
• Assess client family strengths and needs, connecting families to other resources and programs.
• Update narrative report summarizing new information from client and collateral sources and document conclusions.
• Learn more about our programs, as your work providing services will be through the Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP).

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 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 providing services tailored to meet the cultural needs of the individuals served.
• Experience providing guidance and clarification on customer specific case or account details.
• Demonstrated track record of providing clear, accurate, and timely responses to customer needs.
• Experience providing appropriate referrals to ODHS programs and community resources.
• Experience adapting and integrating new or updated policies, procedures, and systems into daily workflow.
• Experience utilizing multiple software systems.

Benefits

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