Eligibility Worker; Public Benefits Specialist

Initial Posting Date: 08/20/2026 Final date to receive applications: 09/06/2026 Agency:
Department of Human Services Salary Range: $4,519 - $5,988 Position Type:
Employee

Position Title:

Benefit & 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! Imagine being a guiding light for those in need. As a Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Public Benefit Specialist), you have an opportunity to embrace diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect as you build trust during difficult moments. Make a difference in people's lives while nurturing your career.

• 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.

• A valid driver's license and acceptable driving record are required for this position.
• 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 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;
  
  OR An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience relative to the class concept.

• Experience adjusting communication style, so information is 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.

Duties for this role will be performed in an office setting. The work schedule is Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm PT. Occasional, travel within the community to conduct eligibility may be required. You may interact with individuals experiencing trauma or emotional distress. There may be times when individuals have difficulties with managing their emotional responses. You may meet situations requiring quick decision-making to ensure your safety or the safety of others.

If selected as a finalist, we will conduct a criminal history and background check. Adverse criminal history or background check may lead to disqualification. Additional background check information.

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.

• ODHS Employee Resource Group communities that promote shared learning.
• Cost of Living Adjustments.
• Annual salary increases (until you reach the top of the listed salary range).
• Amazing benefits package.
• Possible eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
• Employment Preference Veterans' and Oregon National Guard preference:
  Eligible Veterans and Oregon National Guard service members (current and former) who meet the qualifications of the position will be awarded candidate preference.
• For more information, please visit Veterans Resources.

We do not offer visa sponsorship. Within three days of hire, you will be required to complete the US Department of Homeland Security's I-9 form confirming authorization to work in the United States. ODHS will use E-Verify to confirm that you are authorized to work in the United States.

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

Oregon state government is a large organization by nearly any…