Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist) | Bilingual English/Spanish encouraged

State of Oregon • Springfield, MO

2d • $4,519 - $5,988 • Onsite

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! Bilingual Encouraged – English & Spanish. You do not need to be bilingual to apply or be considered for this position. If you are bilingual, we encourage you to apply! We serve diverse communities and recognize the importance of serving people in their preferred language. If you’re interested in using your bilingual language skills, you may qualify for a 5% bilingual differential pay increase after successfully passing the language proficiency test.

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 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. Clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications and essential attributes in your application materials.
• Your application materials will determine if you are selected to move forward in the selection process.
• Please include detailed work and education history.
• Please upload a resume or complete the work history profile.
• Note: Your resume and cover letter may be uploaded in the Resume/CV field on the online application.
• Current State of Oregon employees: Apply via your employee Workday account.
• If you are not a current State of Oregon employee, view this application instructional video.
• After you submit your application, you will have additional tasks to complete in Workday.
• Please continue to check your Workday account throughout the recruitment process.
• The use of outside resources such as Artificial Intelligence software during applicant skill assessments, examinations, and/or interviews is prohibited unless otherwise stated by the hiring agency.
• Unauthorized use of outside resources during the hiring process will result in disqualification.
• The State of Oregon does not request or require your age, date of birth, attendance or graduation dates from an educational institution during the application process.
• If selected as a finalist, we will conduct a criminal history and background check.
• Adverse criminal history or background check may lead to disqualification.
• Additional background check information.
• The Oregon Department of Human Services does not offer visa sponsorship.
• Within three days of hire, you will be required to complete the US Department of Homeland Security’s I-9 form confirming authorization to work in the United States.
• ODHS will use E-Verify to confirm that you are authorized to work in the United States.

Nice To Haves

• Bilingual English/Spanish encouraged

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.
• Veterans’ and Oregon National Guard preference: Eligible Veterans and Oregon National Guard servicemembers (current and former) who meet the qualifications of the position will be awarded candidate preference.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree