Eligibility Worker (Public Benefit Specialist) McMinnville – Bilingual Spanish Preferred

State of Oregon•McMinnville, OR

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Oregon Department of Human Services is seeking an Eligibility Worker (Public Benefit Specialist) to join the Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) program. This program focuses on providing a coordinated service strategy to ensure timely delivery of eligibility benefits for medical programs, SNAP, ERDC, TANF, and TA-DVS. The approach integrates equitable services, aiming to bring a broad range of supports within reach of each client or family. This role requires collaboration with internal staff, local governments, Tribes, service providers, and other partners. The work is guided by principles of Oregonian-focused, Customer Service, Equity and Inclusion, Standardization, and Efficiency.

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 remaining adaptable and patient as priorities and business needs shift throughout the day.
Experience conducting work that requires attention to detail, particularly with data entry and reviewing documents.
Experience collaborating and communicating effectively both verbally and in writing with customers, colleagues, and diverse communities.
Experience researching, interpreting, and applying policies and regulations in a work environment with frequently changing priorities.
Must possess a valid driver's license and acceptable driving record to use state vehicles.
Good attendance pattern and appropriate use of accrued paid leave to ensure workload coverage for vacations and other leaves, as well as acceptable customer service.
Ability to interact with a wide range of people, including some who have experienced trauma and may exhibit challenges in controlling their emotions.
Ability to handle stressful situations that require quick decision-making to ensure safety of yourself and others.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with constantly evolving policies and procedures.
Ability to perform repetitive motions, prolonged sitting, and daily computer and technology use.
Criminal history and background check will be conducted.
Must complete the US Department of Homeland Security’s I-9 form confirming authorization to work in the United States within three days of hire.
Must be authorized to work in the United States via E-Verify.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual Spanish Preferred (Not Required)
Bilingual language skills in English & Spanish to assist with a need in the communities that we serve.

Responsibilities

Conduct interviews or review supplemental materials as needed to make eligibility determination for applicable ODHS programs.
Complete redetermination, periodic reviews, and change updates within federal timeframes and within appropriate intervals.
Ensure appropriate documentation and forms are completed and sent, information is captured correctly, and actions taken are notated.
Communicate eligibility decisions to applicants and send all required notifications within the appropriate timeframe.
Provide person-centered services with a trauma-informed approach to identify needs.
Handle and protect sensitive and confidential information as well as Oregonian and agency data appropriately.