Public Benefits Specialist. Bilingual English/Spanish Required
About The Position
The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is seeking a Public Benefits Specialist to join the Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP). OEP determines eligibility for medical, food, cash, and childcare benefits using the ONE eligibility system. This role is crucial in ensuring equitable, timely, and accurate eligibility determinations through a person-centered approach. The position requires bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish, with differential pay provided for this skill. ODHS is committed to advancing equity and diversity and encourages applications from members of historically underrepresented groups.
Requirements
- Bilingual in English/Spanish (proficiency will be tested).
- 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.
- Experience handling confidential or sensitive situations and information with unwavering professionalism.
- 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.
- 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.
Responsibilities
- Determine eligibility for medical, food, cash, and childcare benefits through the ONE eligibility system.
- Provide assistance and interpret and apply policies, rules, or guidelines.
- Communicate decisions regarding the approval or denial of benefits or services.
- Adapt communication style to explain complex information to diverse audiences.
- Conduct work that requires attention to detail, particularly with data entry and reviewing documents.
- Handle confidential or sensitive situations and information with professionalism.
- Provide customer service in a person-centered and trauma-informed manner.
- Uphold ODHS Core Values, including diversity, equity, anti-racism, and inclusion.
- Demonstrate active listening skills to understand and retain information.
- Develop collaborative relationships that foster trust, inclusivity, and respect with internal and external partners.
Benefits
- Bilingual differential pay (5% of base pay).
- Cost of Living Adjustments.
- Annual salary increases (until top of range).
- Amazing benefits package.
- Possible eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
- ODHS Employee Resource Group communities that promote shared learning.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
Associate degree
