Public Benefits Specialist. Bilingual English/Spanish Preferred

State of Oregon • Newport, RI

22h • Onsite

About The Position

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is seeking a Public Benefits Specialist to join the Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) program. This role is crucial in empowering Oregonians by facilitating access to vital services and helping them rise above poverty. The OEP program determines eligibility for medical, food, cash, and childcare benefits through the ONE eligibility system. The specialist will provide timely, accurate, and necessary eligibility determinations using a person-centered approach, focusing on equity of services and well-being for children, families, and communities. Bilingual English/Spanish proficiency is preferred, and differential pay is offered for positions requiring the use of a language other than English.

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 communicating decisions regarding the approval or denial of benefits or services and adapting communication style to explain complex information such as rules or procedures verbally and in writing to diverse audiences.
• Experience completing tasks or projects timely in a fast-paced, high volume business setting and conducting work that requires attention to detail, particularly with data entry and reviewing documents.
• Experience handling confidential or sensitive situations and information with unwavering professionalism, holding self and others to high standards of honesty and integrity.
• Demonstrated willingness to uphold the ODHS Core Values and experience providing customer service that is person centered and trauma informed manner through a diversity, equity, embracing anti-racism work and inclusion lens that exemplifies our Equity North Star values of inclusivity, equity, service and well-being.
• Experience demonstrating active listening; listening to understand, retain information and applying lessons-learned to varying environments and situations; welcoming constructive feedback and suggestions to strengthen work performance.
• Experience developing collaborative relationships that foster trust, inclusivity, and respect with internal and external partners.
• Must possess a valid driver's license and acceptable driving record to use state vehicles.
• Ability to pass a criminal history and background check.
• Authorization to work in the United States (I-9 form, E-Verify).

Nice To Haves

• Bilingual English/Spanish proficiency.

Responsibilities

• Determine eligibility for medical, food, cash, and childcare benefits through the ONE eligibility system.
• Provide timely, accurate, and necessary eligibility determinations through a person-centered approach.

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.
• Bilingual differential pay (5% of base pay) for positions that require using a language other than English to fulfill job duties.

What This Job Offers

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