Eligibility Worker; Public Benefits Specialist Bilingual English

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

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

Agency:
Oregon Department of Human Services

Posting Date: 12/30/2025

Final date to receive applications: 01/14/2026

Position Type:
Employee (Full‑time)

Salary Range: $4,409 – $5,842 per month

Job Summary

The Oregon Department of Human Services is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer guided by our Equity North Star. “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.” Fluency in English and Spanish is not required, but preference will be given to candidates who possess this skill.

Responsibilities

• 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, 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, interpreting and applying policies, rules, or guidelines; OR
• An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience relative to the class concept.

Essential Attributes

• Experience adjusting communication style to make information 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.

Working Conditions

• Duties are performed in an office setting.
• Work schedule Monday–Friday, 8 am to 5 pm PT, with possible fluctuations based on service needs.
• Occasional, voluntary, compensated overtime (including evenings and weekends) may be available.
• You may interact with individuals experiencing trauma or emotional distress; may require professional support.
• May encounter situations requiring quick decision‑making to ensure safety of yourself or others.

Background Checks and Requirements

• Selected finalists will undergo a criminal history and background check.
• Oregon Department of Human Services does not offer visa sponsorship. Within three days of hire you will complete the I‑9 form and E‑Verify.

Benefits

• ODHS Employee Resource Group communities.
• Cost‑of‑Living Adjustments.
• Annual salary increases until reaching the top of the salary range.
• Comprehensive benefit package.
• Possible eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Employment Preference

• Veterans and Oregon National Guard service members who meet qualifications receive preference.

General Information

• This is a permanent, full‑time position represented by SEIU.
• The recruitment may be used to fill future vacancies in the same classification.

Contact Information

• Recruiter:
  Amanda Alvarado
• Email: AMANDA.K.ALVARADOgon.gov
• Phone: 541‑709‑8695
• Job requisition number: REQ‑192659

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

#J-18808-Ljbffr