Benefit & Eligibility Worker (human Services Specialist 3)

Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Human Services Specialist 3)

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.

Opportunity awaits! Imagine being a guiding light for those in need. As a Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Human Service Specialist 3), 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.

Summary of Duties

As a Benefit & Eligibility Worker, you will:

• 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 identify needs.
• Be responsible for accurate and timely 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

• Two years of experience determining eligibility for an agency program by interviewing to assess the needs of clients and interpreting and applying the policies, rules, and guidelines applicable to the client's situation.
• An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience relative to the class concept.

Essential Attributes

We are looking for candidates with:

• 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 using time management, organization, and prioritization skills to meet deadlines.
• Experience providing customer service that is person-centered and trauma-informed.
• Demonstrated experience with technical skills that include basic computer and search engine knowledge, email communication, and learning new web-based platforms.
• Demonstrated experience developing meaningful relationships that foster trust, inclusivity, and respect.

Working Conditions

• Work will take place in offices, participants' homes, and various community sites.
• Frequent travel is required, for attending meetings, trainings, and conducting client meetings in the community.
• There may be rare occasions of overnight travel, if trainings are required in Salem.
• Some travel will be in hazardous weather conditions, snow and ice is typical between November to April.
• You may work with individuals experiencing trauma or crisis, some who may have difficulty managing their emotions.
• Quick decision-making may be necessary to ensure the safety of yourself and others.
• Frequent communication with Oregon residents will occur over the phone and in-person.

Attention all candidates! Clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications and essential attributes in your application materials. Your application materials will determine if you are selected to move forward in the selection process. Please include detailed work and education history.

• Your application materials are used to determine your starting salary range. Please ensure that all education and experience you would like considered are included in your application materials. Note: Your resume and cover letter may be uploaded in the Resume/CV field on the online application. You can attach multiple files in this area at once.
• The State of Oregon does not request or require your age, date of birth, attendance or graduation dates from an educational institution during the application process. If you are selected as the final candidate and a degree is listed as a minimum qualification for the position, please be prepared to provide verification of your completed education before moving forward in the hiring process.
• 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.
• 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.
• * A valid driver's license and acceptable driving record are required for this position.

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' preference

• Veterans' preference information.
• How to submit your Veteran documents for preference. Please do not attach your Veterans' preference documentation in the Resume/CV field of your application.

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.

Please include the job requisition number: REQ-186888.

• Recruiter: Amanda Alvarado.
• Email: AMANDA.K.ALVARADO@odhs.oregon.gov
• Phone (call or text): 541-709-8695.