Eligibility Worker; Public Benefits Specialist Bilingual English

Position Title

Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist) Bilingual English & Spanish Preferred

Initial Posting Date: 12/30/2025

Final date to receive applications: 01/14/2026

Agency: Department of Human Services

Salary Range: $4,409 - $5,842

Position Type: 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.

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.

• 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.

We are looking for candidates with:

• Experience adjusting communication style, so information is clear and accessible to people with different backgrounds and needs.

• Experience organizing work, setting priorities, and completing tasks on time using effective tools or methods.

• Experience reviewing details and applying policies and procedures to make decisions or solve problems.

• Experience handling sensitive or challenging information professionally while using available resources to support well-being.

• Experience creating clear written documents and explaining information so others can easily understand.

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

• Duties for this role will be performed in an office setting
  .

• The work schedule is Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm PT
  , with possible fluctuations based on service needs.

• Occasional, voluntary, compensated overtime may be available including evenings and weekends.

• You may interact with individuals experiencing trauma or emotional distress. There may be times when individuals have difficulties with managing their emotional responses.

• You may meet situations requiring quick decision-making to ensure your safety or the safety of others.

Attention all candidates! Clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications and essential attributes in your application materials. Your application materials will determine if you are selected to move forward in the selection process. Please include detailed work and education history.

• Your application materials are used to determine your starting salary range. Please ensure that all education and experience you would like considered are included in your application materials.
  Note: Your resume and cover letter may be uploaded in the Resume/CV field on the online application. You can attach multiple files in this area at once.

• The State of Oregon does not request or require your age, date of birth, attendance or graduation dates from an educational institution during the application process. If you are selected as the final candidate and a degree is listed as a minimum qualification for the position, please be prepared to provide verification of your completed education before moving forward in the hiring process.

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) Usage: The use of outside resources such as Artificial Intelligence software during applicant skill assessments, examinations, and/or interviews is prohibited unless otherwise stated by the hiring agency. Unauthorized use of outside resources during the…