Public Benefits Specialist

Job Description

Public Benefits Specialist – Othello – Responsible for advising and assisting Oregonians in accessing public benefits through the Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP).

The Oregon Department of Human Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We promote equity and diversity and welcome applicants from historically underrepresented groups, women, individuals with disabilities, veterans, LGBTQIA2S+ community members, and others.

• Perform eligibility determinations, redeterminations, periodic reviews, and updates for ODHS, Oregon Health Authority, and Department of Early Learning and Care programs.
• Interview applicants in person and by phone to gather information needed to assess eligibility.
• Assess client family strengths and needs, connecting families to other resources and programs.
• Update narrative reports summarizing new information from clients and collateral sources and document conclusions.

• One year of experience at Human Services Specialist I level for the State of Oregon; or
• Two years of experience working with the public, providing assistance and interpreting policies, rules, or guidelines; or
• An associate degree in Behavioral Science, Social Science or closely related field and six months of experience working with the public, providing assistance and interpreting policies, rules, or guidelines; or
• An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience relative to the class concept.

• Experience providing services tailored to meet the cultural needs of clients.
• Experience providing guidance and clarification on client-specific case or account details.
• Demonstrated track record of providing clear, accurate, and timely responses to client needs.
• Experience adapting and integrating new or updated policies, procedures, and systems into daily workflow.
• Experience utilizing multiple software systems.

• Traditional work week, Monday to Friday.
• Work conducted in offices and program sites.
• May interact with clients under emotional or financial stress.
• May require sitting at a terminal or telephone for prolonged periods.

• Civilian background check conducted for finalists; adverse history may lead to disqualification.
• No visa sponsorship; U.S. work authorization required and verified through I-9 and E‑Verify.
• Valid driver’s license or other acceptable transportation may be required.

• Employee Resource Group participation.
• Cost‑of‑living adjustments.
• Annual salary increases until the top of the salary range.
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Possible eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

• Veterans and Oregon National Guard service members receive candidate preference per agency policy.

• Permanent, full‑time position represented by Service Employees International Union.
• Salary range is non‑PERS monthly; PERS membership increases range by 6.95%.
• Recruitment may be used to fill future vacancies in the same classification.