Public Benefits Specialist | Bilingual Required English/Russian

Initial Posting Date: 09/16/2026 | Application Deadline: 09/17/2026 | Agency: Department of Human Services

About the role

Benefit & Eligibility Workers play a key role in connecting people with programs that foster stability and well‑being. As a Public Benefits Specialist, you will work in the Southeast Portland Branch (on SE Malden Street) assisting Oregonians in‑person. Opportunity awaits! Discover a rewarding path where you support your community and grow your career.

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 and by phone to gather information needed to assess and determine if there is a need for services and benefits.
• Assess client family strengths and needs, connecting families to other resources and programs.
• Be responsible for updating narratives by summarizing newly obtained information from the client and collateral sources, and documenting the appropriate conclusions.
• Learn more about our programs, as your work providing services will be through the Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP).

Requirements

To qualify for this position, you must be bilingual in English and Russian. The job offer will be contingent upon passing a test evaluating your proficiency in the bilingual requirements; upon passing, you will receive a 5% bilingual differential pay.

Minimum qualifications (any one of the following):

• One year of experience working at the Human Services Specialist 1 level for the State of Oregon;
• Two years of experience working with the public, providing assistance and interpreting and applying policies, rules, or guidelines;
• 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;
• An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience relative to the class concept.

Qualifications

Essential attributes we are looking for:

• Experience communicating complex and technical information clearly, both verbally and in writing, to people from diverse backgrounds.
• Experience preparing and maintaining thorough client records and narratives.
• Experience researching, interpreting, and applying policies and regulations in a work environment.
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize tasks and manage time to meet deadlines.
• Experience making decisions to resolve problems using independent judgment.
• Experience staying calm and professional when working with applicants or clients in challenging or emotional situations.

Benefits

• ODHS Employee Resource Group communities that promote shared learning.