Public Benefits Specialist | Bilingual Preferred English/Spanish
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. Bilingual Preferred – English & Spanish You do not need to be bilingual to apply for or be considered for this position. If you are bilingual, we encourage you to apply! We serve diverse communities and recognize the importance of serving people in their preferred language. If interested in using your bilingual language skills, upon passing the test, you will receive 5% bilingual differential pay. Opportunity awaits! Looking for a rewarding career where you can work alongside a team of dedicated individuals to support Oregonians? This opportunity offers growth and the chance to positively impact lives. As an Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist), you will work in the Ontario office assisting Oregonians in-person. Ontario is in rural eastern Oregon near the Idaho border.
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.
- Experience communicating complex and technical information clearly, both verbally and in writing, to people from diverse backgrounds.
- Experience preparing and maintaining thorough client records and narratives.
- Experience researching, interpreting, and applying policies and regulations in a work environment.
- Demonstrated effectively prioritizing tasks and managing time to meet deadlines.
- Experience in making decisions to resolve problems using independent judgment.
- Experience staying calm and professional when working with applicants or clients in challenging or emotional situations.
Nice To Haves
- Bilingual proficiency will be considered as a tiebreaker among equally qualified finalists.
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 and by phone 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 collateral sources, findings of home visit, and conclusions.
- Learn more about our programs, as your work providing services will be through the Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP).
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
