Lead Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist, Senior)

State of Oregon•Portland, OR

7d•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. Opportunity awaits! If you enjoy helping your peers resolve issues, serving as a resource for understanding and explaining complex policies and procedures, and find yourself mentoring, training, and guiding staff around you, then this may be the position for you! If you are looking for a new career, consider taking on a key role in our team as a Public Benefits Specialist, Senior for the Glisan office for the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS).

Requirements

A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record are required for this position.
Two years of experience working at the Public Benefit Specialist3 level for the State of Oregon; OR Three years of experience determining eligibility for an agency program (e.g., cash assistance, medical assistance, food stamps, etc.); OR An associate degree in a Behavioral Science, Social Science or a closely related field AND one year 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.
Advanced experience navigating the ONE system for the purposes of reviewing accuracy of eligibility determinations and/or conducting audits on specific data points.
Experience building collaborative relationships with community partners and knowledge of resources.
Experience supporting and mentoring staff, fostering a positive work environment for employee growth and development online and in person.
Experience inputting and retrieving data from different computer programs including DHR, Tracs, and the ONE system.
A cover letter is required. Clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications and essential attributes in your application materials.
Please include detailed work and education history.
Please make sure your application materials, resume and job history, are clearly outlined as this information will be used to determine your starting salary range.
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.
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.

Responsibilities

Accurately determine eligibility for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF and TA-DVS), Employment Related Day Care (ERDC), long-term services and supports, and other medical programs.
Monitor and assess production levels and assign or reassign daily work to eligibility staff based on business needs.
Provide technical assistance, resources, and guidance to staff who primarily assist Oregonians in the Store Front office.
Conduct formal reviews of work and provide feedback and training to staff.
Attend daily and weekly meetings with staff, other lead workers, and leadership.
Maintain a work environment that respects, understands and honors the lived experiences of our customers, colleagues and communities we serve.
Code the appropriate systems to deliver benefits as determined by the eligibility of the applicant. This is accomplished by conducting interviews, reviewing verifications, and interpreting policy and rules.