Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist)

Initial posting date: 08/24/2026 • Application deadline: 09/08/2026 • Agency: Department of Human Services

About the role

The Oregon Department of Human Services is 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.

Are you fluent in English and Spanish? Our diverse communities benefit from bilingual support. While not a requirement, preference will be given to candidates who possess this valuable skill.

As a Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Public Benefit Specialist), you will be a guiding light for those in need, embracing diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect while building trust during difficult moments. Make a difference in people's lives while nurturing your career.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Requirements

• 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.

Skills

We are looking for candidates with:

• Experience actively listening to clients and asking clarifying and open-ended questions to gather complete and relevant information.
• Experience applying critical thinking and sound judgment to make informed decisions using available data and resources.
• Experience using written and oral communication to share information clearly and effectively with diverse audiences.
• Experience organizing tasks and managing time effectively to meet established deadlines.
• Experience using technology tools to accurately input, retrieve, and manage client information.

Preference will be given to candidates that are bilingual in Spanish and English.

Working Conditions

• Duties for this role will be performed in the local office.
• The work schedule is Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm PT, with possible fluctuations based on service needs.
• You may interact with individuals experiencing trauma or emotional distress, and there may be times when individuals have difficulty managing their emotional responses.
• You may encounter situations requiring quick decision-making to ensure your safety or the safety of others.

Benefits

• 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.

Pay

$4,519 - $5,988 per month

Schedule

Permanent, full-time position. This recruitment may be used to fill future vacancies in the same classification.

This position is represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU).