Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist

Position: Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist)
Location: Estacada

Initial Posting Date:08/21/2026

Application Deadline:08/30/2026

Agency:

Department of Human Services Salary Range:$4,519 - $5,988

Position Type:

Employee

Position Title:

Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist)

Job Description:

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! If you possess the unique ability to connect with individuals and assess their needs through a compassionate lens, the Oregon Department of Human Services invites you to apply for a rewarding position that empowers our community's most vulnerable members. Apply Today!

Summary of Duties As a Public Benefits Specialist, you will:

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  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.

Minimum Qualifications One year of experience working at the Human Services Specialist 1 level for the State of Oregon; ORTwo years of experience working with the public, providing assistance and interpreting and applying policies, rules, or guidelines; ORAn 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;

ORAn equivalent combination of education, training, and experience relative to the class concept.

Essential Attributes We are looking for candidates with:

Experience planning, prioritizing, and completing work efficiently while maintaining quality and meeting deadlines.

Experience adapting with ease to changing environments and priorities.

Experience establishing positive relationships and connections with individuals from diverse backgrounds, roles, and personalities.

Experience using computer systems and software applications to enter, retrieve, and manage information accurately.

Skilled in conveying complex information clearly and professionally, both verbally and in written form, to clients, team members, and external agencies, supporting case documentation, service delivery, and informed client decision-making.

Experienced in applying crisis intervention and conflict resolution techniques to de-escalate emotionally charged situations, ensuring the safety and well-being of clients, families, and staff while maintaining a calm and professional demeanor.

Attention all candidates! A cover letter is required. 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.

Please upload a resume or complete the work history profile.

Note:

Your resume and cover letter may be uploaded in the Resume/CV field on the online application.

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.

The use of…