Job Description

Studies have shown that candidates that are female and/or BIPOC are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet all of the qualifications, they find in the job description. We are seeking the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may be a person who comes from a less traditional background. We encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet every minimum qualification described or are unsure if your experience could be considered related experience. Bilingual English/Spanish Encouraged

 

ABOUT OREGON CASCADES WEST COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS (OCWCOG)

OCWCOG manages a variety of local, State, and Federal programs to serve residents, local governments, and businesses in our tri-County Region. OCWCOG is recognized by the State of Oregon as an Area Commission on Transportation (ACT) and a Type B Medicaid Transfer Agency. Additionally, the association is recognized by the Federal Government as an Area Agency on Aging (AAA), an Economic Development District (EDD), an Economic Development Revolving Loan Fund Coordinator, a U.S. Department of Agriculture Revolving Loan Agency, and staffs the two Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs) in the Region. These designations increase OCWCOG’s ability to serve our communities’ needs.

 

As an Oregon intergovernmental entity, in addition to the programs and services that OCWCOG is required by State or Federal contract to provide, OCWCOG helps businesses find appropriate capital; facilitates seniors and persons with disabilities plan for independent living; coordinates local road improvement priorities; and assists with administration and technical support for its member governments.

 

Each program works towards OCWCOG’s mission of helping the Region’s communities collaborate to solve problems and connect member governments, businesses, and individuals with a wide array of resources.

 

 

Title:  Eligibility Specialist

Position Classification:  Eligibility Specialist

Department: Senior and Disability Services 

Reports to: Senior and Disability Services Program Supervisor

 

SUMMARY OF POSITION

This position is FLSA non-exempt and eligible for overtime.  This position is union represented. Performs specialized financial eligibility functions including in-person, phone, or community interviews and collection/verification of financial information to make eligibility determinations and complete ongoing financial reviews.   Access various state and federal database systems to collect/report data and issue state and federal benefits. This position is a Mandatory Reporter by statutory requirement.

 

Performs position duties in a manner that promotes customer service and harmonious working relationships, including treating all persons with compassion and respect.  Collaboratively engages in effective team participation through willingness to assist and support co-workers, supervisors, and other work-related associations. Develops supportive working relationships with agency staff, supervisors, and community partners through active participation in shared workloads. Demonstrates ability to problem-solve and think critically by using complex policy to make informed decisions regarding eligibility for publicly funded programs. Demonstrates positive acceptance of constructive feedback and suggestions to strengthen work performance. Contributes to a positive, respectful, and productive work atmosphere committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. Regular attendance is required to meet the demands of this job and to provide necessary services. Teleworking option may be available following probationary trial service.

 

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES

75% Essential Duty 1: Determines financial eligibility for Medicaid, SNAP, TANF, ERDC, and other programs.

  • Determines initial eligibility for Medicaid (Oregon Health Plan and Medicare Savings Plans), SNAP, TANF, ERDC, and other programs for applicants.
  • Works in coordination with case managers to establish financial eligibility for individuals applying for or receiving long term support and services.
  • Collects, reviews, and processes financial documentation and other supporting data associated with financial eligibility process within rule mandated timeframes.
  • Performs ongoing financial eligibility functions and routine financial renewals of Medicaid, SNAP, TANF, ERDC, and other programs.

 

15% Essential Duty 2: Customer Service and Counselling on Benefits 

  • Engages with Oregonians via phone, email, in-person in the office, or in the community.
  • Uses person-centered, trauma-informed communication skills. 
  • Counsels on basic Medicaid information including Coordinated Care Organization, income and resource standards, and other eligibility factors.
  • Counsels Oregonians regarding the Medicare Modernization Act and facilitates enrollment in Medicare Advantage Plans and Medicare Prescription Plans

 

10% Essential Duty 3: Administrative Processes 

  • Refers Overpayments to Overpayment Writers
  • Assists clients with Voter Registration 
  • Prepares and participates in audits of cases.
  • Participates with the Hearing Officer on related hearings.

 

OTHER JOB DUTIES

Identifies and makes referrals for applicants who may need additional support and services including being a mandatory reporter of allegations of abuse or neglect.

Provides backup support as needed.

Attends unit meetings, staffing, and trainings as directed by leadership team.

 

SUPERVISION RECEIVED: Receives general supervision from Senior and Disability Services Program Supervisor(s).

 

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: None

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:  None

 

RESPONSIBILITIES

Work is performed primarily in an office environment utilizing an agency provided computer, telephone and a variety of office equipment. Position requires sitting for long periods of time and performing extensive telephone and computer work. Occasional travel to various meetings and training courses or appointments with Oregonians is also required.

 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Experience & Training

Graduation from a four-year college or university with major course work in social services preferred and/or any satisfactory equivalent combination of education, training and experience which demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the duties of the job.

 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  • Knowledge of functions and scope of public and private agencies and institutions providing social support services to vulnerable populations
  • Knowledge and familiarity with problems and issues confronting low-income households in the local community.
  • Knowledge of confidentiality rules regarding client and provider records, including HIPAA regulations
  • Knowledge and ability to perform basic computer operations.
  • Knowledge of and experience in Microsoft software
  • Ability to effectively communicate both orally and in writing.
  • Ability to effectively interview applicants to determine program eligibility.
  • Ability to work effectively with applicants using good judgment in troubleshooting case issues/errors.
  • Ability to interact with a culturally diverse population.
  • Ability to interact and work effectively with representatives of other social agencies and members of the public.
  • Ability to interact sensitively with older adults and/or persons with disabilities.
  • Ability to exercise good time management skills in order to accomplish both daily and on-going tasks.
  • Ability to work independently and prioritize multiple tasks and a high volume of work.
  • Ability to compute and process required documents and recognize mathematical errors.
  • Ability to research, interpret and implement Oregon Administrative Rules, Social Security rules and other state and federal rules, regulations, and policies.
  • Ability to assess and diffuse emotionally charged situations in person or over telephone.

 

Licenses, Certificates, & Other Requirements

  • Possession of a Valid Oregon driver’s license or ability to obtain reliable transportation in order to travel as assigned.

 

  • Position requires successful completion of a criminal history and driving record check.

 

  • This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by an employee occupying this position.  Employees are required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by their supervisor(s).

 

  • Requirements are representative of minimum levels of knowledge, skills and abilities. To perform this job successfully the employee will possess the abilities or aptitudes to perform each duty proficiently.

 

COMPENSATION PACKAGE
Starting salary is $22.69- $30.41/hourly DOQE. A step increase will be awarded upon successful completion of a probationary period (six months), and then annually thereafter to the top of the range. OCWCOG offers an attractive benefits package including:


Retirement – OCWCOG pays both the employer’s percentage, and employee’s six percent (6%) contribution into the Oregon Public Employees System (PERS). In addition to PERS, OCWCOG pays into Social Security.  
Insurance – For select plans, OCWCOG currently pays one hundred percent (100%) of the insurance premiums for the employee and their eligible dependents. The insurance package includes medical, prescription, dental and vision coverage, life, accidental death and dismemberment, long term disability.
Holiday Leave – OCWCOG provides eleven and one half (11 ½) fixed holidays, plus two (2) personal days during each fiscal year. 
Additional Benefits – Deferred compensation options, Long-term care Insurance, Employee Assistance Program, Credit Union memberships, and options to participate in pre-tax Health Savings Account or Flexible Spending Account. 
Sick Leave – Full-time employees accrue eight (8) hours of sick leave each month.
Vacation Leave – Full-time employees accrue vacation leave each month according to the following schedule: 
            0-36 months              - 8 hours/month
          37-72 months              - 10 hours/month
        73-144 months              - 14 hours/month
      145 months and above     - 16 hours/month.

 

GENERAL INFORMATION
This position is represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU).

 

TO APPLY
You must submit the following application materials to be considered as a viable candidate:

1. A completed application and current resume that clearly describes your experience, skills, and/or knowledge related to the requirements of the position and demonstrates that you meet qualifications of the position listed above.

2. A cover letter explaining how your background, experience and training qualify you for this position. Please describe your experience and training specifically as they relate to the Minimum Qualifications.


If you are an eligible veteran and wish to claim veterans’ preference points AND you also meet the minimum qualifications for this position, the points will be added to your score. To receive veterans’ preference points, you MUST attach to your application materials the following required documentation:

• A copy of your DD214/DD215 form; OR a letter from the US Department of Veteran’s Affairs indicating you receive a non-service connected pension for the five (5) point preference.
• A copy of your DD214/DD215 form; AND a copy of your veteran’s disability preference letter from the Dept. of Veterans’ Affairs for the ten (10) point preference. 

OCWCOG provides veterans’ preference in employment to all eligible veterans.  For more information, please go to the State website:  

Veterans Information 

OCWCOG is an equal opportunity/ affirmative action employer and is strongly committed to enhancing the diversity of its workforce.  Assistance will be provided in the recruitment, application and selection process to applicants with disabilities who request such assistance.  Please call (541) 967-8720 as early as possible regarding any assistance you may require.


If you have any questions, please contact HR at hrrecruit@ocwcog.org.   In the subject line please include the position title and the posting number. 

OCWCOG will review application as they are received and may close the recruitment at any time as positions are filled. 

To apply scroll down to the bottom and click Apply. 

The Posting Number for this position is 202404.