Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist)

Oregon Department of Human Services; Bend (OR); On-site; USD 50,000 - 67,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Cost of Living Adjustments

Annual salary increases

Amazing benefits package

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

Job summary

The Oregon Department of Human Services is seeking a Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist) to conduct eligibility determinations and provide person-centered services to applicants. The role emphasizes cultural awareness and diversity, contributing to a positive experience for clients.

Preferred qualifications include bilingual skills in Spanish and English. The position is full-time with a salary range of $4,519 - $5,988 per month, and offers a supportive work environment

Qualifications

• One year of experience at Human Services Specialist 1 level or two years of public assistance experience.
• Experience in providing assistance and interpreting policies.
• Valid driver’s license with acceptable record.

Responsibilities

• Perform eligibility determinations and periodic reviews.
• Conduct interviews with applicants for benefits.
• Communicate eligibility decisions to applicants.

Skills

Bilingual skills

Documentation review

Cultural responsiveness

Time management

Building trust

Education

Associate degree in Behavioral Science

Tools

Multiple software and platforms

Job description

Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist)

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. Can you communicate in both English and Spanish? Bilingual skills strengthen our service to diverse communities. This skill is not required, but candidates who have it will receive preference. Opportunity awaits! Imagine being a guiding light for those in need. As a Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Public Benefit Specialist), you have an opportunity to embrace diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect as you build trust during difficult moments. Make a difference in people's lives while nurturing your career.

Salary Range

Salary Range: $4,519 - $5,988

Position Type

Employee Position

Summary of Duties

• Perform eligibility determinations, redeterminations, and periodic reviews.
• Conduct interviews with applicants applying for benefits.
• Communicate eligibility decisions to applicants.
• Provide person-centered services with a trauma-informed approach to support needs.
• Handle correct and prompt eligibility determinations across the state.
• Create a work environment where everyone feels welcomed, appreciated and valued.
• Participate in professional development opportunities and ongoing education of cultural awareness.

Minimum Qualifications

• A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record are needed to use state vehicles. Reasonable accommodation with the ADA or creative solutions in certain cases may be used to meet this need.
• 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.

Essential Attributes

• Experience reviewing documents and entering information into multiple systems with accuracy.
• Experience navigating multiple software programs and web-based platforms to cross reference or verify information.
• Experience explaining complex information verbally and in writing to diverse audiences in a culturally responsive manner.
• Experience prioritizing tasks and managing workloads to consistently meet deadlines in a fast paced, dynamic environment.
• Experience building trust-based relationships and adapting to changing priorities collaboratively as a team.
• Preference will be given to candidates that are bilingual in Spanish and English.

Working Conditions

Work will take place in the office, and various community locations as needed. Occasional travel may be needed within the community to conduct eligibility appointments.

The work schedule is Monday to Friday, 8:05 am to 5:05 pm PT, with possible fluctuations based on service needs. There may be occasional opportunities for compensated overtime, including evening and weekend hours.

You may interact with individuals experiencing trauma or emotional distress, and there may be times when individuals have difficulty managing their emotional responses.

You may meet situations requiring quick decision-making to ensure your safety or the safety of others.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Usage

The use of outside resources such as Artificial Intelligence software during applicant skill assessments, examinations, and/or interviews is prohibited unless otherwise stated by the hiring agency. Unauthorized use of outside resources during the hiring process will result in disqualification.

Background Checks and Requirements

If selected as a finalist, we will conduct a criminal history and background check. Adverse criminal history or background check may lead to disqualification. Additional background check information.

The Oregon Department of Human Services does not offer visa sponsorship. Within three days of hire, you will be required to complete the US Department of Homeland Security’s I-9 form confirming authorization to work in the United States. ODHS will use E-Verify to confirm that you are authorized to work in the United States.

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.

Employment Preference

Veterans’ and Oregon National Guard preference: Eligible Veterans and Oregon National Guard servicemembers (current and former) who meet the qualifications of the position will be awarded candidate preference. For more information, please visit Veterans Resources.

General Information

This is a permanent, full-time position and is represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU). This recruitment may be used to fill future vacancies in the same classification.

Contact Information

Please contact the recruiter for accommodation requests under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and application or Job-specific questions.

Recruiter: Amanda Alvarado.

Email: [e-mail]

Phone (call or text): 541-709-8695.

About Oregon State Government

Oregon state government is a large organization by nearly any standard. With over 40,000 employees working all over the state, in small communities and large, we are proving that government can be innovative. We work as a team, challenging ourselves to be better, faster and more efficient with taxpayer dollars. After all, when every day we are responsible for caring for the needs of a diverse population and thriving business community, we simply must have the best and brightest workforce. If you take responsibility for your actions, are passionate about helping others succeed, and have a reputation for excellence and honesty, why not make Oregon state government your next career move? Joining our team means you open the door to many possibilities. From entry level to executive, outdoor work to policy setting, we have a role for nearly every calling, expertise and background. If you’re looking at us from across the country (or beyond!), know that Oregon is one of the most beautiful places on earth. Made up of seven diverse regions, Oregon has the ocean, mountains, valleys, high desert, cities, small towns, and almost everything in between. Oregon “flies with her own wings.”