Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist) Bilingual Russian Preferred Not Required

State of Oregon•Milwaukie, OR

4d•$4,519 - $5,988•Onsite

About The Position

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) Milwaukie team is seeking talented individuals who have experience interviewing applicants to determine eligibility for programs and services through a trauma informed lens. This is a meaningful career that serves Oregon’s most vulnerable community members. The department is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and is guided by its Equity North Star and its vision for a positive RiSE organizational culture that advances equity and diversity. Preference will be given to candidates who are fluent in both English and Russian.

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 accurately applying complex rules and policies to various types of cases or circumstances.
Experience serving a high volume of diverse customers in a trauma informed and culturally responsive manner.
Experience developing collaborative relationships with colleagues and community partners that foster trust, inclusivity, and respect.
Experience actively listening to customers and asking clarifying and open-ended questions to gather complete and relevant information.
Experience independently managing workload using time management, organization, and prioritization skills to consistently meet deadlines.
A cover letter is required.
Resume and cover letter may be uploaded in the Resume/CV field on the online application.
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.
If you are selected as the final candidate and a degree is listed as a minimum qualification for the position, please be prepared to provide verification of your completed education before moving forward in the hiring 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.
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.
As part of the pre-employment background check, applicants may be asked to complete a driving record review.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual in Russian 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.