Public Benefits Specialist
State of Oregon•Hood River, OR
•$4,519 - $5,988•Onsite
About The Position
The Oregon Department of Human Services is hiring a Public Benefits Specialist to work in person at its Hood River office, assisting Oregonians through the Oregon Eligibility Partnership. The role supports ODHS, Oregon Health Authority, and Department of Early Learning and Care programs. The position involves assessing eligibility and connecting individuals and families with services and resources. Bilingual English and Spanish skills are encouraged but are not required; employees who pass a bilingual test and use those skills may receive a 5% bilingual differential.
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 relevant public-facing experience; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
- Experience providing services tailored to the cultural needs of the individuals served.
- Experience providing guidance and clarification on customer-specific case or account details.
- Demonstrated ability to provide clear, accurate, and timely responses to customer needs.
- Experience providing appropriate referrals to ODHS programs and community resources.
- Experience adapting and integrating new or updated policies, procedures, and systems into daily workflow.
- Experience utilizing multiple software systems.
Nice To Haves
- Bilingual English and Spanish skills; bilingual applicants who pass the test and use their skills may receive 5% differential pay.
Responsibilities
- Perform eligibility determinations, redeterminations, periodic reviews, and updates for changes in ODHS, Oregon Health Authority, and Department of Early Learning and Care programs.
- Interview applicants in person and by phone to gather information needed to assess service and benefit needs.
- Assess client family strengths and needs and connect families to other resources and programs.
- Update narrative reports summarizing new information from clients and collateral sources, and document conclusions.
Benefits
- ODHS Employee Resource Group communities that promote shared learning.
- Cost of Living Adjustments.
- Annual salary increases until reaching 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
Entry Level
Education Level
Associate degree
