Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist) - Spanish/English Bilingual Preferred Not Required; Multiple Openings!

Initial posting: 08/18/2026 • Application deadline: 08/25/2026 • Multiple openings • Agency: Oregon Department of Human Services

About the role

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) team seeks an Eligibility Worker to determine eligibility for medical, food, cash, and childcare benefits through the ONE eligibility system. OEP focuses on equity of services, providing timely, accurate, and person-centered eligibility determinations. This position works in-person at the Springfield office; remote work is not available.

Bilingual (Spanish/English) candidates are preferred and will receive a 5% bilingual differential pay upon passing proficiency tests. Preference will be given to bilingual candidates, but fluency is not required to apply.

Responsibilities

• Interview applicants in-person and by phone to gather and assess information for benefits such as SNAP, Long Term Care (LTC), TANF, Employment Related Day Care (ERDC), and Medicaid 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.
• Perform extensive computer-based work using multiple systems simultaneously to research information, document case activity, enter data, and process eligibility decisions.
• Provide person-centered services using a trauma-informed approach to identify needs.
• Create a welcoming, inclusive work environment where everyone feels valued.
• Participate in professional development and ongoing cultural-awareness education.

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 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 policies, rules, or guidelines, OR
• An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

Skills

• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Demonstrated commitment to promoting equitable treatment, belonging, and an anti-racist workplace.
• Detail-Oriented/Organization: Experience completing tasks timely in a fast-paced, high-volume setting with attention to detail, particularly in data entry and document review.
• Customer Service: Experience providing compassionate, professional service to marginalized, underserved, or crisis-affected community members.
• Communication: Ability to explain technical information (rules, procedures) to diverse audiences using active listening and adaptive communication.
• Computer Skills: Proficiency in using computers, web browsers, Excel, Word, Outlook, and multiple systems simultaneously for research, data tracking, and results.
• Adaptability: Capacity to welcome and adjust to changes in policies, programs, tools, and priorities.
• Analytical Skills: Experience applying complex rules, policies, and trauma-informed approaches to resolve barriers or conflicts.

Schedule

Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Regular attendance and reliability are essential. Work is performed in-person in an office setting; no telework opportunities.

Benefits

• ODHS Employee Resource Group communities for shared learning.
• Cost-of-living adjustments and annual salary increases (until reaching the top of the salary range).
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Possible eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Pay

Salary range: $4,519 – $5,988 per month.

This is a permanent, full-time position represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU). Veterans and Oregon National Guard servicemembers may qualify for employment preference. This recruitment may fill future vacancies in the same classification.