Senior Benefits Navigator

General Description

This position plays an important role in helping older adults and individuals with disabilities access essential financial, medical, and nutrition-related benefits. The Eligibility Specialist determines eligibility for benefit programs, supports ongoing enrollment, and helps consumers navigate resources with professionalism, accuracy, and respect.

Essential Duties

• Interview individuals by phone or in person to gather information and determine eligibility for financial, medical, and SNAP benefit programs.
• Review applications, verify documentation, and apply program rules and policies to determine eligibility.
• Maintain accurate consumer records and process forms, updates, and benefit changes in a timely manner.
• Conduct annual eligibility reviews and communicate re-determination requirements and decisions.
• Assist consumers with ongoing benefit maintenance and respond to questions or changes as needed.
• Coordinate with community partners and agencies such as Department of Human Services, Oregon Health Authority, Social Security Administration, medical providers, and other service organizations.
• Attend hearings or provide testimony when needed regarding consumer eligibility.
• Support person-centered service by helping consumers understand available resources and access appropriate assistance.
• Follow Agency policies, confidentiality requirements, and mandatory reporting obligations while maintaining quality and accuracy standards.

(FOR BILINGUAL POSITIONS ONLY)

• Communicate directly with consumers whose primary language is not English.
• Interpret and explain forms, program requirements, rules, and policies in the identified language pair.
• Translate written materials as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

A qualified applicant will have a minimum of four (4) years of equivalent combination of education and/or experience which demonstrates the knowledge, skills and abilities required to perform the essential functions of this position. Minimum qualifications may be met through any of the following:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Social Sciences, Human Services, or a closely related field; or
• Four (4) years of relevant experience providing assistance to the public that includes any combination of interpreting and applying program rules or policies; determining eligibility, conducting intake interviews; verifying documentation; or performing casework.

(FOR BILINGUAL POSITIONS ONLY)

• Successful completion of a language proficiency test

Other Requirements

Driving for Agency Business. Positions that require driving must possess a valid driver’s license and maintain an acceptable driving record. May require proof of personal automobile liability insurance in accordance with ORS Chapter 806 and use of a personal vehicle.

Background Check. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a criminal history check. Conviction of a crime does not automatically disqualify an individual from employment. Some positions may require additional screening, including but not limited to state or national fingerprint-based background checks.

Mandatory Reporting and Confidentiality. Must maintain confidentiality and comply with mandatory reporting requirements related to vulnerable populations.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to interpret and apply program rules, policies, and procedures accurately.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage a high volume of work with deadlines.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills with consumers, co-workers, and community partners.
• Ability to gather and review financial and personal information with accuracy and attention to detail.
• Basic computer proficiency, including database and office software use.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment, solve problems, and work independently.
• Ability to build rapport with consumers and provide respectful, culturally responsive customer service.

Work Environment and Physical Demands

• Work is primarily performed in an office setting with regular computer and telephone use.
• Frequent interruptions and competing priorities throughout the day.
• Regular sitting, talking, hearing, and repetitive hand movement.
• Occasional standing, walking, bending, and lifting (up to 25 lbs).
• Occasional travel to consumer homes, facilities, or community locations with varying levels of cleanliness and repair.
• Interaction with diverse populations in office and community settings, including occasional exposure to contagious illness, challenging behavior, or domestic animals.