Public Benefits Specialist | Bilingual Required English/Russian
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 Required: English & Russian. To qualify for this position, you must be bilingual in English & Russian. The job offer will be contingent upon passing a test evaluating your proficiency in the bilingual requirements for this position. Upon passing the test, you will receive 5% bilingual differential pay. Opportunity awaits! Discover a rewarding path where you support your community and grow your career. Benefit & Eligibility Workers play a key role in connecting people with programs that foster stability and well‑being. As a Public Benefits Specialist, you will work in the Southeast Portland Branch (on SE Malden Street) assisting Oregonians in-person.
Requirements
- Must be bilingual in Russian and English.
- 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.
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.
- Be responsible for updating narratives by summarizing newly obtained information from the client and collateral sources, and documenting the appropriate conclusions.
- Learn more about our programs, as your work providing services will be through the Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP).
Benefits
- 5% bilingual differential pay
- 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
Entry Level
Education Level
Associate degree
