Eligibility Specialist 034-10-26

Northwest Senior and Disability Services•Keizer, OR

9d•$4,426 - $5,931

About The Position

The Eligibility Specialist helps older adults and individuals with disabilities access financial, medical, and nutrition-related benefits. The position determines eligibility for benefit programs, supports ongoing enrollment, and helps consumers navigate available resources with professionalism, accuracy, and respect. The role involves interviewing consumers, reviewing applications and documentation, maintaining case records, conducting annual eligibility reviews, coordinating with partner agencies, and supporting consumers as their circumstances or benefit needs change. For bilingual positions, the specialist also communicates with consumers whose primary language is not English, interprets and explains program information in the identified language pair, and translates written materials as needed. Work is primarily performed in an office setting with regular computer and telephone use. The position involves frequent interruptions, competing priorities, and interaction with diverse populations in office and community settings. Occasional travel may be required to consumer homes, facilities, or community locations. Employees may be assigned other duties or temporary assignments in other offices or areas. Reasonable accommodations will be provided as needed.

Requirements

At least four years of equivalent combined education and/or experience demonstrating the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to perform the essential functions.
Minimum qualifications may be met with a bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Social Sciences, Human Services, or a closely related field; or four years of relevant public-assistance experience involving any combination of interpreting and applying program rules or policies, determining eligibility, conducting intake interviews, verifying documentation, or performing casework.
For bilingual positions, successful completion of a language proficiency test.
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 accurately and with 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.
For positions requiring driving: valid driver's license and acceptable driving record; proof of personal automobile liability insurance may be required, and use of a personal vehicle may be necessary.
Successful completion of a criminal history check is required; some positions may require additional screening, including state or national fingerprint-based checks.
Must maintain confidentiality and comply with mandatory reporting requirements related to vulnerable populations.

Responsibilities

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, including the 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.
Help consumers understand available resources and access appropriate assistance through person-centered service.
Follow Agency policies, confidentiality requirements, mandatory reporting obligations, and quality and accuracy standards.
For bilingual positions, communicate directly with consumers whose primary language is not English; interpret and explain forms, program requirements, rules, and policies in the identified language pair; and translate written materials as needed.