Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist), Bilingual English, Spanish Preferred

State of Oregon•McMinnville, OR

28d•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. Bilingual Preferred – English & Spanish You do not need to be bilingual to apply or be considered for this position. If you are bilingual, we encourage you to apply! We serve diverse communities and recognize the importance of serving people in their preferred language. If interested in using your bilingual language skills, upon passing the test, you will receive 5% bilingual differential pay. Opportunity awaits! Imagine being the lifeline for families in need, ensuring they receive the essential services that can transform their lives – This is the vital role of a Benefit & Eligibility Worker, where your commitment to fostering well-being and stability shapes the future of communities across the state! Summary of Duties As a Benefit & Eligibility worker you will: Determine Program Eligibility: 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.

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 with problem-solving and transitioning between tasks in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.
Experience with remaining adaptable and patient as priorities and business needs shift throughout the day.
Experience with detail-oriented work, including data entry and document review.
Experience with effectively collaborating with customers, colleagues, and communities while honoring their lived experiences.
Experience with communicating benefit and service decisions clearly, both verbally and in writing, while adapting the approach for diverse audiences.
Experience with active listening, comprehending, and retaining information while applying lessons learned.
Experience with receiving constructive feedback and using it to enhance performance.
You must possess a valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record to use state vehicles.
Within three days of hire, you will be required to complete the US Department of Homeland Security’s I-9 form confirming authorization to work in the United States.
ODHS will use E-Verify to confirm that you are authorized to work in the United States.
A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record are required for this position.

Nice To Haves

Preference will be given to candidates that are bilingual in Spanish and English.

Responsibilities

Determine Program Eligibility: 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.