Eligibility Worker; Public Benefits Specialist

Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist)

The Oregon Department of Human Services is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are guided by our Equity North Star and our vision for a positive RiSE organizational culture that advances equity and diversity. We encourage applications from members of historically underrepresented racial/ethnic groups, women, individuals with disabilities, veterans, LGBTQIA2S+ community members, and others to help us achieve our vision of a diverse and inclusive community.

Can you communicate in both English and Spanish? Bilingual skills strengthen our service to diverse communities. This skill is not required, but candidates who have it will receive preference.

Opportunity awaits!

Imagine being a guiding light for those in need. As a Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Public Benefit Specialist), you have an opportunity to embrace diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect as you build trust during difficult moments. Make a difference in people's lives while nurturing your career.

Summary of Duties

As a Benefit & Eligibility worker, you will:

• Perform eligibility determinations, redeterminations, and periodic reviews.
• Conduct interviews with applicants applying for benefits.
• Communicate eligibility decisions to applicants.
• Provide person-centered services with a trauma-informed approach to support needs.
• Handle correct and prompt eligibility determinations across the state.
• Create a work environment where everyone feels welcomed, appreciated and valued.
• Participate in professional development opportunities and ongoing education of cultural awareness.

Minimum Qualifications

A valid driver's license and acceptable driving record are needed to use state vehicles. Reasonable accommodation with the ADA or creative solutions in certain cases may be used to meet this need.

• 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 class concept.

Essential Attributes

We are looking for candidates with:

• Experience reviewing documents and entering information into multiple systems with accuracy.
• Experience navigating multiple software programs and web-based platforms to cross reference or verify information.
• Experience explaining complex information verbally and in writing to diverse audiences in a culturally responsive manner.
• Experience prioritizing tasks and managing workloads to consistently meet deadlines in a fast paced, dynamic environment.
• Experience building trust-based relationships and adapting to changing priorities collaboratively as a team.

Preference will be given to candidates that are bilingual in Spanish and English.

Working Conditions

Work will take place in the office, and various community locations as needed.

• Occasional travel may be needed within the community to conduct eligibility appointments.
• The work schedule is Monday to Friday, 8:05 am to 5:05 pm PT, with possible fluctuations based on service needs.
• There may be occasional opportunities for compensated overtime, including evening and weekend hours.
• You may interact with individuals experiencing trauma or emotional distress, and there may be times when individuals have difficulty managing their emotional responses.
• You may meet situations requiring quick decision‑making to ensure your safety or the safety of others.

Attention…