Eligibility Worker; Public Benefits Specialist

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.

Opportunity awaits! Our Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) NE Portland office is seeking two (2) talented individuals who have 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 Portland Branch (on NE Killingsworth Street) assisting Oregonians in-person.

Summary of Duties

As an Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist), you will:

• Conduct phone or in-person interviews to gather household details, income, resources, and other key information to assess their needs.
• Conduct collateral interviews or review supplemental materials as needed to make eligibility determination for applicable ODHS programs.
• Use relevant forms, computer systems, and tools to determine eligibility at intake, during benefit renewals, and when recipients report household changes.
• Explain applicant rights and responsibilities during the initial application interview and when benefits are changed and renewed.
• Process data in a timely manner to ensure delivery of benefits and services.

Provide triage, information, and referrals:

• Work closely and collaboratively with Oregonians, other agencies, medical providers, and community partners to provide benefits, services and information.
• In supporting Oregonians, provide person-centered services with a trauma-informed approach to identify needs.

Learn more about our programs, as your work providing services will be through the Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP).

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

We are looking for candidates with:

• Experience in communicating both verbally and in writing, complex and technical information in an understandable language to individuals with diverse educational, linguistic, cultural backgrounds.
• Experience researching, interpreting, and applying policies and regulations in a work environment with frequently changing processes.
• Experience prioritizing tasks and managing time to meet deadlines while using independent judgment to enhance overall productivity.
• Experience preparing and maintaining thorough client records and narratives.
• Demonstrated experience maintaining composure and professionalism while effectively engaging with applicants or clients in escalated or emotionally charged situations.

Attention all candidates! A cover letter is required.

• Clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications and essential attributes in your application materials. Your application materials will determine if you are…