Public Benefits Specialist
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! Looking for meaningful work with real impact? Join a dedicated team supporting Oregonians through a community-centered, data-informed approach that addresses social determinants of health and creates lasting change. As a Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist), you will work in the Pendleton Branch assisting Oregonians in-person.
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 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.
Nice To Haves
- Experience working in a social/human services setting, interviewing to obtain information in person and over the phone.
- Experience conducting work that requires attention to detail, particularly with data entry and reviewing documents.
- Experience using basic mathematics in a work environment.
- Experience in creating and maintaining written documentation of interactions with clients.
- Experience communicating decisions, rules, regulations, policies and procedures to clients or customers.
- Experience providing trauma informed customer service to community members who have historically been marginalized, underserved, in crisis, or disadvantaged.
Responsibilities
- Perform eligibility determinations, redeterminations, periodic reviews, and updates to changes for ODHS, Oregon Health Authority (OHA), and Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) programs.
- Interview applicants in person, by phone, by email to gather information needed to assess and determine if there is a need for services and benefits.
- Assess client family strengths and needs, connecting families to other resources and programs.
- Update narrative report summarizing new information from client and conclusions.
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.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
Associate degree
