Eligibility Worker; Public Benefits Specialist

Position Title

Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist)

Initial Posting Date: 05/27/2026

Final date to receive applications: 06/10/2026

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.

Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) is a program that determines eligibility for Oregon residents for medical, food, cash, and childcare benefits through the ONE eligibility system. OEP focuses on equity of services and provides timely, accurate eligibility determinations through a person‑centered approach.

• Interview applicants in‑person and by phone to gather and assess information for benefits such as SNAP, LTC, TANF, ERDC, and Medicaid 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.

• A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.
• One year of experience 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 with the public, providing assistance and interpreting and applying policies, rules, or guidelines OR
• An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

• Experience communicating applicable technical information such as rules or procedures verbally and in writing to diverse audiences.
• Experience conducting work that requires attention to detail, particularly with data entry and reviewing documents.
• Experience handling confidential or sensitive situations and information with unwavering professionalism, holding self and others to high standards of honesty and integrity.
• Experience providing trauma‑informed customer service to community members who have historically been marginalized, underserved, in crisis, or disadvantaged.

• Work schedule:
  
  8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Monday – Friday.
• Work is conducted in‑office and in‑person at the Lakeview office.
• Some travel for community events is required.
• May require sitting at a terminal or telephone for prolonged periods.
• Interact with a wide range of people including some who have experienced trauma and may be experiencing emotional and/or financial distress.
• Consistent attendance and flexibility/adaptability are essential due to a changing environment with regular policy, program, and technical adjustments.

• Criminal history and background check will be conducted for finalists; adverse findings may lead to disqualification.
• ODHS does not offer visa sponsorship. Within three days of hire, employees must complete the I‑9 form and undergo E‑Verify.

• ODHS Employee Resource Group communities.
• Cost of Living Adjustments.
• Annual salary increases up to the top of the salary range.
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

• Eligible Veterans and Oregon National Guard service members (current and former) who meet qualifications will receive candidate preference.

• This is a permanent, full‑time position represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU).
• This recruitment may be used to fill future vacancies in the same classification.