Eligibility Worker (Public Benefit Specialist) Bilingual English/Spanish Required

State of Oregon•North Bend, OR

1d•$4,519 - $5,988•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 requirement English/ Spanish To qualify for this position, you must be bilingual in English & Spanish. The job offer is contingent upon passing speaking and writing tests evaluating your proficiency. Upon passing, you will receive a 5% bilingual differential pay. Opportunity awaits! Put your customer service and problem-solving skills to work with the Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP). As an Eligibility Worker, you’ll help individuals and families access essential medical, food, cash, and childcare benefits. You’ll interview customers, apply program rules, make eligibility decisions, and provide person-centered service to people from diverse backgrounds. Your work will make a meaningful difference while helping create a welcoming and inclusive environment. Bring your communication skills, compassion, and commitment to helping others—and grow your career with ODHS! We are seeking to fill this position in our North Bend office. North Bend is located on the southern Oregon Coast (not in Central Oregon).

Requirements

Bilingual in Spanish and English.
A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record are required for this position.
One (1) year of experience working at the Human Services Specialist 1 level for the State of Oregon; OR Two (2) 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 (6) 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.

Nice To Haves

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 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.
Experience using strong independent problem‑solving skills and seeking solutions proactively before escalating issues.
Candidates that are 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.