Eligibility Worker; Public Benefit Specialist) Bilingual English

Position Title

Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Public Benefit Specialist) Bilingual English & Spanish Preferred not Required

08/24/2026

08/31/2026

Department of Human Services

$4,519 - $5,988

Employee

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 community’s benefit from bilingual support. While not a requirement, preference will be given to candidates who possess this valuable skill

Our Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) Hillsboro, Oregon team is seeking talented individuals who have experience interviewing applicants to determine eligibility for programs and services through a trauma informed lens. If you are looking for a meaningful career that serves Oregon’s most vulnerable community members, we want you to join our team.

• Interview applicants in-person and by phone to gather and assess information for benefits we administer, such as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Long Term Care (LTC) services, Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF), Employment Related Day Care (ERDC), and various Medicaid (Health insurance) programs.
• Perform eligibility determinations, redeterminations, and periodic reviews.
• Assist customers in-person and over the phone who are receiving or 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.
• 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.

We are looking for candidates with:

• Experience interviewing participants to gather and evaluate information used to determine eligibility for human service programs and services.
• Experience planning, prioritizing, and organizing work efficiently while maintaining accuracy, quality, and meeting established deadlines.
• Demonstrates adaptability and positivity in the face of change, including new processes, technologies, or organizational priorities.
• Proven ability to clearly explain rules, procedures, and complex information to customers in a professional and approachable manner, ensuring understanding, resolving concerns, and promoting a positive customer service experience.
• Experience developing collaborative relationships with colleagues and community partners that foster trust, inclusivity, and respect
• Experience using multiple software systems to process data, resolve issues, and maintain accuracy.

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

• Your work schedule will be 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday – Friday.
• Work is conducted in-office and in-person at our Hillsboro ODHS office.
• May require sitting at a terminal or telephone for prolonged periods of the workday.
• You will interact with a wide range of people including some who have experienced trauma and may be experiencing emotional…