Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist

Position Title

Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist)

Initial Posting Date

08/10/2026

Final date to receive applications

08/18/2026

Agency

Department of Human Services

Salary Range

$4,519 - $5,988

Position Type

Employee



Job Description

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! 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.

Summary Of Duties

As a Benefits &
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.

• 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.

• Experience reviewing documents and entering information into multiple systems with accuracy.
• Experience navigating multiple software programs and web-based platforms to cross reference or verify information.
• Experience explaining complex information verbally and in writing to diverse audiences in a culturally responsive manner.
• Experience prioritizing tasks and managing workloads to consistently meet deadlines in a fast paced, dynamic environment.
• Experience building trust-based relationships and adapting to changing priorities collaboratively as a team.

• The work schedule is Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm PT.
• Work will be done on site and in-person at the Bend ODHS branch office.
• Contact with the public, including contact with Oregonians experiencing emotional and financial stress.
• Serve a diverse range of customers with compassion and professionalism through a trauma informed lens.
• May require sitting at a computer or telephone for prolonged periods of the workday.
• Occasional local travel may be required for community appointments that take place in participant homes, hospitals, and other public settings based on the participants’ needs.