Eligibility Worker | Public Benefits Specialist

Initial posting date: 08/21/2026 • Application deadline: 09/03/2026

About the role

The Oregon Department of Human Services is seeking an Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist) to work in the Hermiston Branch, assisting Oregonians in-person. Hermiston is located in rural Northeastern Oregon. Learn more about Hermiston.

This position supports individuals and families by providing resources that help them thrive, working primarily with older adults and people living with disabilities in the Aging & People with Disabilities storefront office.

Responsibilities

• Perform eligibility determinations, redeterminations, periodic reviews, and updates to changes for ODHS, Oregon Health Authority (OHA), and Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) programs.
• Interview applicants in person, by phone, or by email to gather information needed to assess and determine need for services and benefits.
• Assess client family strengths and needs, connecting families to other resources and programs.
• Update narrative reports summarizing new information from the client and collateral sources.
• Work through the Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) to provide services.

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 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

• Demonstrated experience prioritizing tasks and completing work efficiently, accurately, and within established deadlines.
• Demonstrated experience performing detail-oriented work, including data entry and reviewing previous information and decisions.
• Demonstrated experience thriving in fast-paced environments with frequent shifts in priorities.
• Demonstrated adaptability and patience as business needs and daily priorities evolve.
• Experience communicating complex and technical information clearly, both verbally and in writing, to people from diverse backgrounds.

Working Conditions

• Work with individuals experiencing trauma or crisis, some of whom may have difficulty managing their emotions.
• Quick decision-making may be necessary to ensure the safety of yourself and others.
• May require sitting at a terminal or telephone for prolonged periods of the workday.

Pay

Monthly salary range: $4,519 – $5,988. If you are already a participating PERS member or become PERS eligible, the salary range will increase by 6.95%.

Benefits

• ODHS Employee Resource Group communities that promote shared learning.
• Cost of Living Adjustments.
• Annual salary increases (until you reach the top of the salary range).
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Possible eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Schedule

This is a permanent, full-time position represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU).

Additional Information

• If selected as a finalist, a criminal history and background check will be conducted. Adverse results may lead to disqualification.
• The Oregon Department of Human Services does 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 uses E-Verify.
• A driver’s license and acceptable driving record may be required for this position.
• This recruitment may be used to fill future vacancies in the same classification.
• Eligible veterans and Oregon National Guard servicemembers will receive candidate preference. Learn more about veterans’ resources.