Eligibility Worker; Public Benefits Specialist

Equal Opportunity Employer

The Oregon Department of Human Services is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We encourage applications from members of historically underrepresented racial/ethnic groups, women, individuals with disabilities, veterans, LGBTQIA2S+ community members, and others.

The State of Oregon does not request or require your age, date of birth, attendance or graduation dates from an educational institution during the application process.

Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) is a program within ODHS that determines eligibility for people living in Oregon who apply for medical, food, cash and childcare benefits through the ONE eligibility system. OEP plays a critical part in the eligibility process that moves beyond integration and equality, focusing on equity of services and providing timely, accurate, and necessary eligibility determinations through a person-centered approach.

• Interview applicants in-person and by phone to gather and assess information for benefits we administer, such as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Long Term Care (LTC) services, Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF), Employment Related Day Care (ERDC), and various Medicaid (Health insurance) programs.
• Perform eligibility determinations, redeterminations, and periodic reviews.
• Assist 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 work environment where everyone feels welcomed, appreciated and valued.
• Participate in professional development opportunities and ongoing education of cultural awareness.

• 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; or
• An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience relative to the class concept.

• Experience conducting work that requires attention to detail, particularly with data entry and reviewing documents.
• Experience independently managing workload using time management, organization, and prioritization skills to consistently meet deadlines.
• Experience actively listening to customers and asking clarifying and open-ended questions to gather complete and relevant information.
• Experience communicating applicable technical information such as rules or procedures verbally and in writing to diverse audiences.
• Experience developing collaborative relationships with colleagues and community partners that foster trust, inclusivity, and respect.

Your work schedule will be 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday – Friday. Work is conducted in-office and in-person at our Burns ODHS office. The job may require sitting at a terminal or telephone for prolonged periods. You will interact with a wide range of people, including some who have experienced trauma or emotional and financial distress. Consistent attendance and flexibility/adaptability to a changing environment with regular policy, program, and technical adjustments are essential.

If selected as a finalist, a criminal history and background check will be conducted. An adverse criminal history or background check may lead to disqualification.

• 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.
• Adjustments for PERS membership and eligibility.

Eligible Veterans and Oregon National Guard service members who meet the qualifications of the position will be awarded candidate preference.