Eligibility Worker; Public Benefits Specialist

Initial Posting Date:

09/24/2026

10/04/2026

Department of Human Services

$4,519 - $5,988

Employee

Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist)

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.

Bilingual skills strengthen our service to diverse communities. This skill is not required, but candidates who have it will receive preference.

Imagine being a guiding light for those in need. As a Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Public Benefit Specialist), 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.

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 support needs.
• Handle correct and prompt 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.

A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record are required for this position.

• One year of experience working at the Human Services Specialist 1 level for the State of Oregon;
  OR
• Two 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 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.

We are looking for candidates with:

• Experience using active listening by, focusing on what others share, checking understanding, and responding with correct information and next steps.
• Experience following organizational policies and processes to complete daily work.
• Experience sharing information clearly, respectfully, and accurately in both verbal and written communication.
• Experience adjusting work practices in response to changes in client needs, service requirements, policies, or operations.
• Experience organizing workload to complete tasks and meet established deadlines.

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

• Work will take place in the office, and various community locations as needed.
• Occasional travel is needed within the community to conduct eligibility and support work in other offices as needed.
• The work schedule is Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm PT
  , with possible fluctuations based on service needs.
• There may be occasional opportunities for compensated overtime, including evening and weekend hours.

• You may interact with individuals experiencing trauma or emotional distress, and there may be times when individuals have difficulty managing their emotional responses.
• You may meet situations requiring quick decision making to ensure your safety or the safety of others.

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…