Eligibility Worker (Public Benefit Specialist) Bilingual English/Spanish Required

oregon; North Bend (WA); Sur place; USD 50 000 - 67 000; Plein temps

Avantages offerts par ce poste

ODHS Employee Resource Group

Cost of Living Adjustments

Annual salary increases

Benefits package

Possible eligibility for PublicService

Résumé du poste

The Oregon Department of Human Services is hiring an Eligibility Worker (Public Benefit Specialist) who is fluent in English and Spanish. You will determine eligibility for medical, food, cash, and childcare benefits and communicate decisions to applicants.

This permanent, full-time position in North Bend offers a 5% bilingual differential after passing tests, a Monday–Friday schedule, and a trauma-informed, person-centered service approach.

Qualifications

• One year of experience at the Human Services Specialist 1 level for the State of Oregon
• Two years of experience with the public, providing assistance and interpreting/applying policies
• An associate degree in a Behavioral or Social Science or related field and six months of experience
• An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience

Responsabilités

• Interview applicants in-person and by phone to gather information for benefits such as SNAP, LTC, TANF, ERDC, and Medicaid programs.
• Perform eligibility determinations, redeterminations, and periodic reviews.
• Assist customers in-person and by phone who are applying for or receiving 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 welcoming work environment.
• Participate in professional development and cultural awareness.

Connaissances

Bilingual English/Spanish

Customer service

Problem solving

Formation

Associate degree in Behavioral or Social Science

Description du poste

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

Position Type: Employee

Position Title: Eligibility Worker (Public Benefit Specialist) Bilingual English/Spanish Required

Job Description: The Oregon Department of Human Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values equity and diversity. We encourage applications from historically underrepresented groups.

To qualify for this position, you must be bilingual in English and Spanish. The job offer is contingent upon passing tests evaluating proficiency. A 5% bilingual differential pay applies after passing.

Overview Put your customer service and problem-solving skills to work with the Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP). As an Eligibility Worker, you’ll help individuals and families access benefits such as medical, food, cash, and childcare.

Summary of Duties

• Interview applicants in-person and by phone to gather information for benefits such as SNAP, LTC, TANF, ERDC, and Medicaid programs.
• Perform eligibility determinations, redeterminations, and periodic reviews.
• Assist customers in-person and by phone who are applying for or receiving 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 welcoming work environment.
• Participate in professional development and cultural awareness.

Minimum Qualifications

• One (1) year of experience at the Human Services Specialist 1 level for the State of Oregon
• Two (2) years of experience with the public, providing assistance and interpreting/applying policies
• An associate degree in a Behavioral or Social Science or related field and six (6) months of experience
• An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience

Essential Attributes

• Experience listening to customers and asking questions to gather information
• Experience applying complex rules and policies
• Experience using trauma-informed and culturally responsive approaches
• Experience developing collaborative relationships with colleagues and community partners
• Experience providing respectful, compassionate service to diverse communities
• Strong independent problem-solving skills

Preference will be given to candidates bilingual in Spanish and English.

Working Conditions

• Work schedule is 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Monday – Friday.
• In-person work at North Bend ODHS office.
• May require computer/phone use for long periods.
• Interact with a wide range of people, including those who have experienced trauma.
• Attendance and adaptability are essential.

Background Checks and Requirements

• A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record are required.
• Criminal history/background check may be conducted. Additional background check information.
• The State of Oregon does not offer visa sponsorship. I-9 and E-Verify requirements apply.

Benefits

• ODHS Employee Resource Group communities that promote shared learning.
• Cost of Living Adjustments.
• Annual salary increases until top of salary range.
• Benefits package.
• Possible eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

General Information

• This is a permanent, full-time position represented by SEIU.
• This recruitment may be used to fill future vacancies in the same classification.

Contact Information

Recruiter contact for accommodation requests under ADA, application questions or job-specific questions:

• Heather Whelan, REQ-207362
• Email: [e-mail]
• Phone: [phone]