Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Human Services Specialist 3), Bilingual Spanish/English Preferred but Not Required

Department Of Human Services • Lubbock, TX

258d • $4,023 - $5,575 • Onsite

About The Position

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. Spanish/English bilingual preferred: You do not need to be bilingual to apply or be considered for this position. However, preference will be given to candidates that 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 of the employee's base pay upon passing test(s) evaluating your proficiency. Opportunity awaits! Would you like the opportunity to make a positive impact on Oregonians in need of support and resources? Would you enjoy working with a diverse team that collaborates and learns together in service of children, families, and communities? If so, step into a role where your efforts directly empower Oregonians to rise above poverty—become a key player in the Oregon Eligibility Partnership and facilitate access to vital services that foster equity and well-being.

Requirements

• Two years of experience determining eligibility for an agency program by interviewing to assess the needs of clients and interpreting and applying the policies, rules, and guidelines applicable to the client's situation.
• An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience relative to the class concept.

Nice To Haves

• Experience conducting work that requires attention to detail, particularly with data entry and reviewing documents.
• Experience communicating decisions regarding the approval or denial of benefits or services and adapting communication style to explain complex information such as rules or procedures verbally and in writing to diverse audiences.
• Experience handling confidential or sensitive situations and information.
• Experience demonstrating active listening; listening to understand, retain information and applying lessons-learned to varying environments and situations.
• Experience developing collaborative relationships that foster trust, inclusivity, and respect with internal and external partners.

Responsibilities

• Interview applicants and determine eligibility for people applying for various programs and benefits through interviewing, gathering and assessing information.
• Administer programs including Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Long Term Care (LTC) services, Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF), Employment Related Day Care (ERDC), Domestic Violence services and various Medicaid (Health insurance) programs.
• Provide resources that support individual and family stability.
• Provide person-centered services with a trauma-informed approach to identify needs.
• Create a work environment where everyone feels welcomed, appreciated and valued.
• Participate in professional development opportunities and ongoing education of cultural awareness.

Benefits

• ODHS 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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree