Eligibility Worker; Public Benefits Specialist

Initial Posting Date: 09/25/2026 Final date to receive applications: 10/11/2026 Agency:
Department of Human Services Salary Range: $4,519 - $5,988 Position Type:
Employee

Position 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 a rewarding career where you can work alongside a team of dedicated individuals to support Oregonians? This opportunity offers growth and the chance to positively impact lives. As an Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist), you will work in the Newport Branch assisting Oregonians in-person.

• Determine Program Eligibility:
  Conduct phone or in-person interviews to gather household details, income, resources, and other key information to assess their needs.
• Conduct collateral interviews or review supplemental materials as needed to make eligibility determination for applicable ODHS programs.
• Use relevant forms, computer systems, and tools to determine eligibility at intake, during benefit renewals, and when recipients report household changes.
• Explain applicant rights and responsibilities during the initial application interview and when benefits are changed and renewed.
• Process data in a timely manner to ensure delivery of benefits and services.
• Provide triage, information, and referrals:
  Work closely and collaboratively with Oregonians, other agencies, medical providers, and community partners to provide benefits, services and information.
• In supporting Oregonians, provide person-centered services with a trauma-informed approach to identify needs.
• 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 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;
• An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience relative to the class concept.

• Experience in communicating both verbally and in writing, complex and technical information in an understandable language to individuals with diverse educational, linguistic, cultural backgrounds.
• Experience researching, interpreting, and applying policies and regulations in a work environment with frequently changing processes.
• Demonstrated effectively prioritizing tasks and managing time to meet deadlines while using independent judgment to enhance overall productivity.
• Experience collaborating effectively with diverse teams and fostering an inclusive, respectful, and supportive work environment.
• Demonstrated experience to maintain composure and professionalism while effectively engaging with applicants or clients in escalated or emotionally charged situations.

This position is assigned to the Newport Store Front Office and will be working in an office environment in person. Standard working hours are Monday-Friday 8:15am-5:15pm in office. The office is constructed of cubicles, so work is often interrupted, and noise level is sometimes high. Occasional overtime may be available. Travel will be required to meet business needs or to attend employee training classes, community appointments.

May encounter angry, hostile, frustrated individuals as well as those with behavioral or cognitive challenges. Employees in these positions may be required to work a flexible work schedule as a condition of employment. This is understood to mean that the hours of work may vary. This position will also perform electronic processing tasks, including preparing reports and handling hearing requests.

If selected as a finalist, we will conduct a criminal history and background check. Adverse…