Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist)

Initial Posting Date: 09/24/2026

Application Deadline: 10/04/2026

Agency: Department of Human Services

Salary Range: $4,519 - $5,988

Position Type: Employee

Job Description

The Oregon Department of Human Services is proud to be 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.

Can you communicate in both English and Spanish? Bilingual skills strengthen our service to diverse communities. This skill is not required, but candidates who have it will receive preference.

Opportunity awaits! Imagine being a guiding light for those in need. As a Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Public Benefit Specialist), you have an opportunity to embrace diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect as you build trust during difficult moments. Make a difference in people's lives while nurturing your career.

Summary of Duties

As a Benefit & Eligibility Worker, you will:

• 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 support needs.
• Handle correct and prompt 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.

Minimum Qualifications

A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record are required for this position.

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.

Essential Attributes

We are looking for candidates with:

• Experience using active listening by, focusing on what others share, checking understanding, and responding with correct information and next steps.
• Experience following organizational policies and processes to complete daily work.
• Experience sharing information clearly, respectfully, and accurately in both verbal and written communication.
• Experience adjusting work practices in response to changes in client needs, service requirements, policies, or operations.
• Experience organizing workload to complete tasks and meet established deadlines.

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

Working Conditions

Work will take place in the office, and various community locations as needed. Occasional travel is needed within the community to conduct eligibility and support work in other offices as needed. The work schedule is Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm PT, with possible fluctuations based on service needs. There may be occasional opportunities for compensated overtime, including evening and weekend hours. 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 meet situations requiring quick decision making to ensure your safety or the safety of others.

Attention all candidates!

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. Your application materials are used to determine your starting salary range. Please ensure that all education and experience you would like considered are included in your application materials. Note: Your resume and cover letter may be uploaded in the Resume/CV field on the online application. You can attach multiple files in this area at once. The State of Oregon does not request or require your age, date of birth, attendance or graduation dates from an educational institution during the application process. If you are selected as the final candidate and 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.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Usage

The use of outside resources such as Artificial Intelligence software during applicant skill assessments, examinations, and/or interviews is prohibited unless otherwise stated by the hiring agency. Unauthorized use of outside resources during the hiring process will result in disqualification.

Background Checks and Requirements

If selected as a finalist, we will conduct a criminal history and background check. Adverse criminal history or background check may lead to disqualification. Additional background check information. 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 will use E-Verify to confirm that you are authorized to work in the United States.

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.

Employment Preference

Veterans’ and Oregon National Guard preference: Eligible Veterans and Oregon National Guard servicemembers (current and former) who meet the qualifications of the position will be awarded candidate preference. For more information, please visit Veterans Resources.

General Information

This is a permanent, full-time position and is represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU). This recruitment may be used to fill future vacancies in the same classification.

Contact Information

Please contact the recruiter for accommodation requests under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and application or Job-specific questions.

Please include the job requisition number: REQ-207306. Recruiter: Amanda Alvarado. Email: AMANDA.K.ALVARADO@odhs.oregon.gov. Phone (call or text): 541-709-8695.