Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist)

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Job Description:

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 in the eligibility process that moves beyond integration and equality, focusing on equity of services and providing timely, accurate, and necessary eligibility determinations through a person-centered approach.   

As an Eligibility Worker, you will:

• Interview applicants in-person and by phone to gather and assess information for benefits we administer, such as 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 customers in-person and 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.

• 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.

• Your work schedule will be 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday – Friday.

• Work is conducted in-office and in-person at our White City ODHS office.

• May require sitting at a terminal or telephone for prolonged periods of the workday.

• You will interact with a wide range of people including some who have experienced trauma and may be experiencing emotional and/or financial distress.

• Consistent attendance is essential.

• Flexibility/adaptability is essential due to a changing environment with regular policy, program, and technical adjustments.

• 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.

• May require a valid driver’s license or other acceptable method of transportation.

• Experience communicating complex and technical information clearly, both verbally and in writing, to people from diverse backgrounds.

• Experience independently managing workload using time management, organization, and prioritization skills to consistently meet deadlines.

• Experience staying calm and professional when working with customers in challenging or emotional situations.

• Experience accurately applying complex rules and policies to various types of cases or circumstances.

• Experience conducting work that requires attention to detail, particularly with data entry and reviewing documents.

• Experience developing collaborative relationships with colleagues that foster trust, inclusivity, and respect.

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.

• 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.

We invite you to contact the recruiter for accommodation requests under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), application questions or job-specific questions.

• The recruiter for this position is Alissa Walker. If you contact the recruiter, please include the job requisition number: REQ-207269.
• Email: ALISSA.WALKER@odhs.oregon.gov
• Phone (call or text): 503-519-1807