Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist) - Spanish​/English Bilingual Preferred Not Required; Multiple Openings

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.

Are you fluent in English and Spanish? Our diverse communities benefit from bilingual support.

Bilingual Preferred:
You do not need to be bilingual to apply for or be considered for this position. However, preference will be given to candidates who are bilingual in Spanish and English. We serve diverse communities and recognize the importance of serving people in their preferred language. If you are bilingual, you will receive 5% bilingual differential pay upon passing test(s) evaluating your proficiency.

Opportunity awaits! Our Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) team is seeking a talented individual who has experience interviewing applicants to determine eligibility for programs and services through a trauma informed lens. If you are looking for a meaningful career that serves Oregon's most vulnerable community members, apply today to join our team!

As an Eligibility Worker, you will work in the Springfield office assisting individuals and families of your community in-person. Remote work will not be available.

Summary of Duties

• 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.
• Perform extensive computer-based work, using multiple computer systems and applications simultaneously to research information, document case activity, enter data, and process eligibility decisions.
• Provide person-centered services using 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.

Minimum Qualifications

• 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

• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion:
  Demonstrated commitment to continued learning and the ability to promote a culture of equitable treatment, belonging, and commitment to fostering an anti-racist workplace.
• Detailed-Oriented/Organization skills:
  Experience completing tasks or projects timely in a fast-paced, high volume business setting and conducting work that requires attention to detail, particularly with data entry and reviewing documents for accuracy and follow up.
• Customer Service:
  Experience providing customer service with respect and compassion in a professional environment to a high volume of community members who have historically been marginalized, underserved, in crisis, or disadvantaged.
• Communication:
  Experience explaining technical information, including rules and procedures, to individuals and groups with varied communication and learning styles, using active listening to…