Eligibility Specialist 223-08-26

Northwest Senior and Disability Services•Warrenton, OR

6d•$4,426 - $5,931•Onsite

About The Position

NorthWest Senior and Disability Services (NWSDS), a local intergovernmental agency supporting older adults and people with disabilities, is hiring an Eligibility Specialist for its Warrenton, Oregon unit. The position helps consumers access financial, medical, and nutrition-related benefits by determining program eligibility, supporting ongoing enrollment, and helping consumers navigate resources with professionalism, accuracy, and respect. It is a full-time, non-exempt, represented position reporting to the Program Manager. Starting salary is $4,426 per month; placement depends on education, training, and relevant experience under the agency’s pay practices. Recruitment closes November 5, 2026. The work is primarily performed in an office and involves regular computer and telephone use, frequent interruptions, and competing priorities. The role also includes occasional travel to consumer homes, facilities, or community locations. Employees interact with diverse populations and may occasionally encounter contagious illness, challenging behavior, or domestic animals. Reasonable accommodations will be provided as needed. Duties may change and may include other assignments or temporary work in other offices or areas.

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 some combination of applying program rules or policies, determining eligibility, conducting intake interviews, verifying documentation, or casework.
Ability to interpret and apply program rules, policies, and procedures accurately.
Strong organizational skills and ability to manage a high volume of work and deadlines.
Effective communication and interpersonal skills with consumers, coworkers, 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 bilingual positions only, successful completion of a language proficiency test.
For positions requiring agency business driving, a valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record; proof of personal automobile liability insurance and use of a personal vehicle may be required.
Successful completion of a criminal history check; some positions may require additional screening, including state or national fingerprint-based checks.
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 redetermination requirements and decisions.
Assist consumers with ongoing benefit maintenance and respond to questions or changes.
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 only, communicate with consumers whose primary language is not English; interpret and explain forms, requirements, rules, and policies in the identified language pair; and translate written materials as needed.