Eligibility Worker; Public Benefits Specialist

Position: Benefit Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist)
## Benefit Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist)
Apply:
Grants Pass | DHS | Hawthorne:
Full time:
Posted Today:
REQ-208049
** Initial Posting Date:
** 10/07/2026
** Final date to receive applications:
** 10/22/2026
** Agency:
** Department of Human Services
** Salary Range:**$4,519 - $5,988
** Position Type:
** Employee
*
* Position Title:

** Benefit Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist)
*
* 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. 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
** 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 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
*** 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.  
** Essential Attributes
** We are looking for candidates with:
* Experience actively listening to clients and asking clarifying and open-ended questions to gather complete and relevant information.
* Experience applying critical thinking and sound judgment to make informed decisions using available data and resources.
* Experience using written and oral communication to share information clearly and effectively with diverse audiences.
* Experience organizing tasks and managing time effectively to meet established deadlines.
* Experience using technology tools to accurately input, retrieve, and manage client information.  Preference will be given to candidates that are bilingual in Spanish and English.  
** Working Conditions
*** This is an in-person position, duties will be conducted in an
** office setting**.
* Employee’s work schedule will be
** Monday - Friday from 8 am - 5 pm PT**.
* Occasional, compensated overtime may be required or voluntary, including evening and weekend work.
* May work with individuals experiencing trauma or crisis. Some individuals may have challenges managing their emotions.
* May encounter situations requiring quick…