Eligibility Worker (human Services Specialist 3)

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! Looking for a rewarding career where you can work alongside a team of dedicated individuals to support Oregonians? This opportunity offers growth and the chance to positively impact lives.

As an Eligibility Worker, you will work in the Portland Branch on SW 5th Avenue assisting Oregonians in-person. Eligibility Workers may be eligible for a hybrid schedule, working part of the week in the office and part of the week from home, once trial services have been successfully completed.

We are centrally located in downtown Portland, with easy access to multiple bus and light-rail (MAX) lines. Parking may be available through a post-tax payroll deduction at the market rate. Our address is 290 SW 5th Avenue. Portland, OR 97204.

Summary of Duties

As an Eligibility Worker (Human Services Specialist 3), you will:

• Perform eligibility determinations, redeterminations, periodic reviews, and updates to changes for ODHS, Oregon Health Authority (OHA), and Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) programs.
• Interview applicants in person, by phone, by email to gather information needed to assess and determine if there is a need for services and benefits.
• Assessing client family strengths and needs, connecting families to other resources and programs.
• Update narrative report summarizing new information from client and collateral sources and conclusions.

Learn more about our programs, as your work providing services will be through the Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP).

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:

• Skilled in interpreting and applying rules, regulations, policies, and procedures related to assistance programs.
• Experience in communicating both verbally and in writing, complex and technical information in an understandable language to individuals with diverse educational, linguistic, cultural backgrounds.
• Demonstrated effectively prioritizing tasks and managing time to meet deadlines while using independent judgment to enhance overall productivity.
• Experience preparing and maintaining thorough client records and narratives.
• Demonstrated experience to maintain composure and professionalism while effectively engaging with applicants or clients in escalated or emotionally charged situations.

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

• Please make sure your application materials, resume and job history, are clearly outlined as this information will be used to determine your starting salary range.
• 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.

Working Conditions

• Will need to access public transit or a paid parking plan for this work location. Employees have the option to use a pre-tax commuter benefit plan.
• Experience constant contact with the public, including contact with and possibly de-escalating customers experiencing emotional and financial stress.
• Experience high volume of computer work, using various computer programs in a fast-paced team environment.
• Priorities and procedures may change daily and requires the ability to be flexible in application of procedures.
• This position works in the store front office.

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.

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.
• The salary range listed is the non-PERS monthly salary range. If you are already a participating PERS member or once you become PERS eligible, the salary range will increase by 6.95%.

Contact Information

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 Yvette Medford. If you contact the recruiter, please include the job requisition number.
• Email: Yvette.C.Medford@odhs.oregon.gov
• Phone (call or text): 541-709-0306

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