Benefits & Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist)
About The Position
The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) team is seeking a talented individual who has experience interviewing applicants to determine eligibility for programs and services through a trauma informed lens. If you are looking for a meaningful career that serves Oregon’s most vulnerable community members, apply today to join our team! Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) is a program within ODHS that determines eligibility for people living in Oregon who apply for medical, food, cash and childcare benefits through the ONE eligibility system. OEP plays critical part in the eligibility process that moves beyond integration and equality, focusing on equity of services and providing timely, accurate, and necessary eligibility determinations through a person-centered approach.
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 actively listening to customers and asking clarifying and open-ended questions to gather complete and relevant information.
- Experience accurately applying complex rules and policies to various types of cases or circumstances.
- Experience using computers to communicate by email, search for information online, enter or retrieve data, and learn new web-based applications.
- Experience using sound judgment, a trauma informed approach and cultural responsiveness to identify successful solutions to barriers or conflicts.
- Experience developing collaborative relationships with colleagues and community partners that foster trust, inclusivity, and respect.
- Experience providing customer service with respect and compassion to community members who have historically been marginalized, underserved, in crisis, or disadvantaged.
- A Cover Letter is required.
- Reliable and consistent attendance to support customers and maintain team operations.
- Flexibility and adaptability as policies, programs, procedures, and technology evolve and change over time.
Nice To Haves
- Fluent in English and Spanish.
- Bilingual in Spanish and English.
Responsibilities
- Interview applicants in-person and by phone to gather and assess information for benefits we administer, such as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Long Term Care (LTC) services, Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF), Employment Related Day Care (ERDC), and various Medicaid (Health insurance) programs.
- Perform eligibility determinations, redeterminations, and periodic reviews.
- Assist customers in-person and over the phone who are receiving or 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.
- 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
Mid Level
Education Level
Associate degree
