Eligibility Worker; Public Benefits Specialist

Initial Posting Date: 08/21/2026 Final date to receive applications: 08/30/2026 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! 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.

• 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 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.

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

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 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 hiring process will result in disqualification. 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.

Working Conditions Your work schedule will be 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday – Friday. Work is conducted in-office and in-person at our Estacada, OR ODHS office. May require sitting at a terminal or telephone for prolonged periods of the workday. You will interact with a wide range of people including some who have experienced trauma and may be experiencing emotional and/or financial distress.

Consistent attendance is essential. Flexibility/adaptability is essential due to a changing environment with regular policy, program, and technical adjustments.

• If selected as a finalist, we will conduct a…