Eligibility Worker | Public Benefits Specialist

Eligibility Worker | Public Benefits Specialist

Job Details:
Initial Posting Date: 08/21/2026;
Final date to receive applications: 09/03/2026;
Agency:
Department of Human Services;
Salary Range: $4,519 - $5,988;
Position Type:
Employee Position;

Job Title:

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.

Opportunity awaits! Looking for meaningful work with purpose? As an Eligibility Worker, you’ll support individuals and families in your community, providing resources that help them thrive. Step into a career where your impact truly matters. As an Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist), you will work in the Hermiston Branch assisting Oregonians in-person. Hermiston is in rural Northeastern Oregon. Learn more about Hermiston: https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

• 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.
• Assess client family strengths and needs, connecting families to other resources and programs.
• Update narrative report summarizing new information from the client and collateral sources.
• Learn more about our programs, as your work providing services will be through the Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP).

• 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 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.

• Demonstrated experience prioritizing tasks and completing work efficiently, accurately, and within established deadlines.
• Demonstrated experience performing detail‑oriented work, including data entry and reviewing previous information and decisions.
• Demonstrated experience thriving in fast‑paced environments with frequent shifts in priorities.
• Demonstrated adaptability and patience as business needs and daily priorities evolve.
• Experience communicating complex and technical information clearly, both verbally and in writing, to people from diverse backgrounds.

This position is in the Aging & People with Disabilities storefront office, providing support to older adults and people living with disabilities. You may work with individuals experiencing trauma or crisis, some who may have difficulty managing their emotions. Quick decision-making may be necessary to ensure the safety of yourself and others. May require sitting at a terminal or telephone for prolonged periods of the workday.

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. A driver’s license and acceptable driving record may be required for this position.

• ODHS Employee Resource Group…