VEC Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist) – 13 vacancies!

State of Oregon•Salem, OR

2d•Remote

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. Information session Interested in learning more about this position? Attend our information session! The hiring manager, an Eligibility team member and recruiter will share information and answer questions. Please note, this information session is not part of the interview process. If you plan to attend and need an accommodation, please send requests in advance to [email protected]. If you are unable to attend and would like a copy of the recorded session, please send requests to [email protected]. Thursday, March 19th from 1:00 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. Pacific Time Link to register: https://www.zoomgov.com/meeting/register/wzR1sH0CQqGigkVI_4Cv1g Opportunity awaits! The Virtual Eligibility Center (VEC) team is seeking talented individuals who have experience interviewing applicants to determine eligibility for programs and services through a trauma informed lens. If you are looking for a meaningful career that serves Oregon’s most vulnerable community members, apply today to join our team! Please note: Our supervisors work together as a team for larger scale hiring efforts, such as this one. If invited to interview, you may interview with a different supervisor than the future direct supervisor. After the interviews are complete, the top selected candidates will be assigned and connected to an ongoing, direct supervisor who will conduct reference checks and guide the top candidate through the Equal Pay, Background Check and Offer letter steps of the recruitment process. Summary of Duties Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) is a program within ODHS that determines eligibility for people living in Oregon who apply for medical, food, cash and childcare benefits through the ONE eligibility system. OEP plays critical part of the eligibility process that moves beyond integration and equality, to focus on equity of services and providing timely, accurate, and necessary eligibility determinations through a person-centered approach.

Requirements

One (1) year of experience working at the Human Services Specialist 1 level for the State of Oregon; OR
Two (2) 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 (6) 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 sustaining focus, engagement, and productivity during extended periods of virtual learning and computer-based work.
Intermediate computer proficiency with online research tools, digital communication and navigating multiple web-based platforms to reconcile and validate data.
Experience using sound judgment, a trauma informed approach and cultural responsiveness to identify successful solutions to problems.
Experience conducting work that requires attention to detail, particularly with data entry and reviewing documents.
Experience adapting communication style to explain complex information such as rules or procedures verbally and in writing to diverse audiences.
Experience independently managing workload using time management, organization, and prioritization skills to consistently meet deadlines.

Responsibilities

Interview applicants by phone to gather and assess information for benefits we administer, such as Domestic Violence services, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Long Term Care (LTC) services, Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF), Employment Related Day Care (ERDC), and various Medicaid (Health insurance) programs.
Perform eligibility determinations, redeterminations, and periodic reviews.
Assist callers over the phone who are receiving or applying for benefits.
Communicate eligibility decisions to applicants.
Provide person-centered services with a trauma-informed approach to identify needs.
Be responsible for accurate and timely eligibility determinations.
Create a work environment where everyone feels welcomed, appreciated and valued.
Participate in professional development opportunities and ongoing education of cultural awareness.