Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist)

oregon; Newport; On-site; GBP 41,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual salary increases

ODHS Employee Resource Groups

Cost of Living Adjustments

Job summary

The Oregon Department of Human Services in Newport is seeking an Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist) to determine program eligibility and provide information and referrals to Oregonians in person at the Newport Branch.

You will interview households, assess income and resources, and coordinate with partners to deliver benefits with a trauma-informed approach. This permanent role offers growth and a strong benefits package.

Qualifications

• One year of experience 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 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.

Responsibilities

• Determine program eligibility by conducting interviews to gather household details, income, resources, and other information.
• Review supplemental materials as needed to determine eligibility for applicable ODHS programs.
• Use forms, systems, and tools to determine eligibility at intake, during renewals, and after changes.
• Explain applicant rights and responsibilities during the initial interview and renewals.

Skills

Verbal and written communication

Policy interpretation

Time management

Team collaboration

Trauma-informed approach

Education

Associate degree in Behavioral/Social Science or related field

Equivalent combination of education, training, and experience

Job description

Initial Posting Date: 09/25/2026

Application Deadline: 10/11/2026

Agency: Department of Human Services

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

Position Type: Employee

Position Title: Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist)

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.

Opportunity awaits!

Looking for a rewarding career where you can work alongside a team of dedicated individuals to support Oregonians? This opportunity offers growth and the chance to positively impact lives.

As an Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist), you will work in the Newport Branch assisting Oregonians in-person.

Summary of Duties

As an Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist),

Determine Program Eligibility:

• Conduct phone or in-person interviews to gather household details, income, resources, and other key information to assess their needs.
• Conduct collateral interviews or review supplemental materials as needed to make eligibility determination for applicable ODHS programs.
• Use relevant forms, computer systems, and tools todetermineeligibility at intake, during benefit renewals, and when recipients report household changes.
• Explain applicant rights and responsibilities during theinitialapplication interview and when benefits are changed and renewed.
• Process datain a timely mannerto ensure delivery of benefits and services.

Provide triage, information, and referrals:

• Work closely and collaboratively with Oregonians, other agencies, medical providers, and community partners to provide benefits,servicesand information.
• In supporting Oregonians, provide person-centered services with a trauma-informed approach toidentifyneeds.

Learn more about our programs, as your work providing services will be through the Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP).

Minimum Qualifications

• 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 in communicating both verbally and in writing, complex and technical information in an understandable language to individuals with diverse educational, linguistic, cultural backgrounds.
• Experience researching, interpreting, and applying policies and regulations in a work environment with frequently changing processes.
• Demonstrated effectively prioritizing tasks and managing time to meet deadlines while using independent judgment to enhance overall productivity.
• Experience collaborating effectively with diverse teams and fostering an inclusive, respectful, and supportive work environment.
• Demonstrated experience to maintain composure and professionalism while effectively engaging with applicants or clients in escalated or emotionally charged situations.

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.
• Please upload a resume or complete the work history profile. Note: Your resume may be uploaded in the Resume/CV field on the online application.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

Working Conditions

• This position is assigned to the Newport Store Front Office and will be working in an office environment in person.
• Standard working hours are Monday-Friday 8:15am-5:15pm in office.
• The office is constructed of cubicles, so work is often interrupted, and noise level is sometimes high. Occasional overtime may be available.
• Travel will be required to meet business needs or to attend employee training classes, community appointments.
• May encounter angry, hostile, frustrated individuals as well as those with behavioral or cognitive challenges.
• Employees in these positions may be required to work a flexible work schedule as a condition of employment. This is understood to mean that the hours of work may vary.
• This position will also perform electronic processing tasks, including preparing reports and handling hearing requests.

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

We invite you to contact the recruiter for accommodation requests under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), application questions or job-specific questions.

• The recruiter for this position is Cris Jansen. If you contact the recruiter, please include the job requisition number: REQ-207266.
• Email: [e-mail]