Bilingual Eligibility Worker - Public Benefits Advocate

Oregon Department of Human Services; Bend (OR); Hybrid; USD 42,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Benefits package

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

Employee Resource Groups

Job summary

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is seeking an Eligibility Worker to help Oregon families access medical, food, cash, and childcare benefits. You will interview applicants, apply program rules, and provide person-centered service in a North Bend office known for its community focus.

Please bring strong communication skills, compassion, and a commitment to equity as you work with diverse clients.

Qualifications

• Minimum qualifications include bilingual English/Spanish.
• One year of experience at the HSS1 level or two years with the public, or an associate degree plus six months of public service experience.
• An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience acceptable for the class concept.

Responsibilities

• Interview applicants in-person and by phone to gather and assess information for benefits (SNAP, LTC, TANF, ERDC, Medicaid).
• Perform eligibility determinations, redeterminations, and periodic reviews.
• Assist customers in-person and over the phone who are applying for benefits.
• Communicate eligibility decisions to applicants.
• Provide person-centered services with a trauma-informed approach to identify needs.
• Create a welcoming, inclusive work environment and participate in professional development.

Skills

Active listening

Open-ended questions

Trauma-informed approach

Cultural responsiveness

Problem solving

Collaborative relationships

Customer service with compassion

Education

Associate degree in Behavioral/Social Science or related field

Job description

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is seeking an Eligibility Worker to help Oregon families access medical, food, cash, and childcare benefits. You will interview applicants, apply program rules, and provide person-centered service in a North Bend office known for its community focus.

Please bring strong communication skills, compassion, and a commitment to equity as you work with diverse clients.