Eligibility Worker; Public Benefits Specialist), Bilingual ; English​/Russian

Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist)

State of Oregon – Department of Human Services.

• Initial Posting Date: 12/18/2025
• Final date to receive applications: 01/04/2026
• Agency:
  Department of Human Services
• Salary Range: $4,409.00 - $5,842.00
• Position Type:
  Employee
• Position Title:
  
  Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist), Bilingual Required;
  English/Russian

The recruitment deadline has been extended until January 4th, 2026.

Oregon Department of Human Services is 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 the lifeline for families in need, ensuring they receive the essential services that can transform their lives – this is the vital role of a Benefit & Eligibility Worker, where your commitment to fostering well‑being and stability shapes the future of communities across the state.

• English and Russian proficiency required.
• Test requirement:
  Passing evaluation of bilingual proficiency.
• 5% differential pay may apply based on passing the language test.

• Determine Program Eligibility
  :
  • Conduct phone or in‑person interviews to gather household details, income, resources, and other key information.
  • Conduct collateral interviews or review supplemental materials as needed.
  • 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 change or renew.
  • Process data promptly to ensure delivery of benefits and services.
• Provide Triage, Information, and Referrals
  :
  • Work closely with Oregonians, other agencies, medical providers, and community partners to provide benefits, services, and information.
  • Provide person‑centered services with a trauma‑informed approach to identify needs.

• 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; OR
• An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience relative to the class concept.

• Experience demonstrating resilience by managing setbacks, delays, or unexpected challenges constructively.
• Experience conducting work requiring attention to detail, particularly with data entry and reviewing documents.
• Experience collaborating and communicating effectively both verbally and in writing with customers, colleagues, and diverse communities.
• Experience researching, interpreting, and applying policies and regulations in a work environment with frequently changing processes.

• 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 make sure your application materials, resume, and job history are clearly outlined as this information will be used to determine your starting salary range. If 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…