Benefit & Eligibility Worker (human Service Specialist 3), Bilingual English & Spanish Preferred

Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Human Service 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.

Are you fluent in English and Spanish? Our diverse communities' benefit from bilingual support. While not a requirement, preference will be given to candidates who possess this valuable skill.

Opportunity awaits! Become a source of support for those in need. Embrace diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect while building trust in challenging times. Make a meaningful impact on lives and grow your career. Join us as a Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Human Service Specialist 3) today!

Summary of Duties

As a Benefit & Eligibility Worker, you will:

• Champion inclusivity by working with diverse groups to provide equitable access to resources and services.
• 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 reviewing and processing eligibility for assistance programs, ensuring applicants met required criteria.
• Experience clearly explaining program details and eligibility requirements to applicants.
• Experience collaborating effectively with diverse groups of people including coworkers, clients, and community partners.
• Experience resolving issues and providing respectful, person-centered support tailored to applicants' needs.
• Experience working within and building relationships in a team environment.
• Experience managing a high volume of work, meeting deadlines, and delivering quality results.

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

Working Conditions

• Work will take place in offices, participants' homes, and various community sites.
• Occasional travel is required for attending meetings, trainings, and conducting eligibility work within local communities.
• The work schedule is Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm PT.
• After completion of training, there may be opportunity for occasional compensated overtime, including evenings and weekends.
• You may work with individuals experiencing trauma or crisis, some whom 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! Application materials are screened for minimum qualifications and essential attributes to determine if you advance in the selection process. Clearly describe how you meet these requirements in your application materials. Your application materials are used to determine your starting salary range. Please ensure that all education and experience you would like considered is 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. 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-185985.

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