Eligibility Worker | Public Benefits Specialist

Position Title

Eligibility Worker | Public Benefits Specialist

08/21/2026

09/03/2026

Department of Human Services

$4,519 - $5,988

Employee

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.

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. Additional background check information.
• 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 communities that promote shared learning.
• Cost of Living…