Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist) Bilingual English & Spanish Preferred
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. Are you fluent in English and Spanish? Our diverse communities' benefit from bilingual support. While not a requirement, preference will be given to candidates who possess this valuable skill. Opportunity awaits! Imagine being a guiding light for those in need. As a Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Public Benefit Specialist), you have an opportunity to embrace diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect as you build trust during difficult moments. Make a difference in people's lives while nurturing your career. Summary of Duties As a Benefit & Eligibility Worker, you will: Perform eligibility determinations, redeterminations, and periodic reviews. Conduct interviews with applicants applying for benefits. Communicate eligibility decisions to applicants. Provide person-centered services with a trauma-informed approach to identify needs. Be responsible for accurate and timely eligibility determinations across the state. Create a work environment where everyone feels welcomed, appreciated and valued. Participate in professional development opportunities and ongoing education of cultural awareness.
Requirements
- 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.
- Experience adjusting communication style, so information is clear and accessible to people with different backgrounds and needs.
- Experience organizing work, setting priorities, and completing tasks on time using effective tools or methods.
- Experience reviewing details and applying policies and procedures to make decisions or solve problems.
- Experience handling sensitive or challenging information professionally while using available resources to support well-being.
- Experience creating clear written documents and explaining information so others can easily understand.
Nice To Haves
- Preference will be given to candidates that are bilingual in Spanish and English.
Responsibilities
- Perform eligibility determinations, redeterminations, and periodic reviews.
- Conduct interviews with applicants applying for benefits.
- Communicate eligibility decisions to applicants.
- Provide person-centered services with a trauma-informed approach to identify needs.
- Be responsible for accurate and timely eligibility determinations across the state.
- 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.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
Associate degree
Number of Employees
501-1,000 employees
