Benefit Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist)

Oregon Department of Human Services; Grants Pass, Hawthorne (OR, OR); Vor Ort; USD 50.000 - 67.000; Vollzeit

Benefits dieser Stelle

COLA

Salary increases

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

Veterans’ preference

Diverse resource groups

Zusammenfassung

Oregon Department of Human Services is seeking a Benefit Eligibility Worker to perform eligibility determinations, conduct interviews, and communicate decisions to applicants across Oregon. The role emphasizes trauma-informed, person-centered service and cultural awareness, with a preference for bilingual English/Spanish speakers.

This in-person position operates Monday through Friday, 8 am–5 pm PT. Candidates should have one year of qualifying experience or an associate degree with relevant

Qualifikationen

• One year of experience at the Human Services Specialist 1 level or two years in public service with policy interpretation.
• Associates degree plus six months public service experience, or equivalent.
• Ability to listen actively and gather complete information with diverse audiences.

Aufgaben

• 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 identify needs.
• Be responsible for accurate and timely 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.

Kenntnisse

Active listening

Critical thinking

Clear communication

Time management

Data entry tools

Bilingual English/Spanish

Ausbildung

Associate degree in Behavioral/Social Science or related field

Jobbeschreibung

Initial Posting Date: 10/07/2026 Application Deadline: 10/22/2026 Agency: Department of Human Services Salary Range: $4,519 - $5,988 Position Type: Employee Position Title: Benefit Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist) 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. Are you fluent in English and Spanish? Our diverse communities' benefit from bilingual support. While not a requirement, preference will be given to candidates who possess this valuable skill. Opportunity awaits! Imagine being a guiding light for those in need. 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

• 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 identify needs.
• Be responsible for accurate and timely 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

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

Experience actively listening to clients and asking clarifying and open-ended questions to gather complete and relevant information. Experience applying critical thinking and sound judgment to make informed decisions using available data and resources. Experience using written and oral communication to share information clearly and effectively with diverse audiences. Experience organizing tasks and managing time effectively to meet established deadlines. Experience using technology tools to accurately input, retrieve, and manage client information. Preference will be given to candidates that are bilingual in Spanish and English.

Working Conditions

This is an in-person position, duties will be conducted in an office setting. Employee’s work schedule will be Monday - Friday from 8 am - 5 pm PT. Occasional, compensated overtime may be required or voluntary, including evening and weekend work. May work with individuals experiencing trauma or crisis. Some individuals may have challenges managing their emotions. May encounter situations requiring quick decision-making to ensure the safety of oneself or others. You will communicate with Oregon residents frequently over the phone and in-person. Requires substantial time spent stationary while operating a computer.

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.

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.

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’ 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-208049. Recruiter: Amanda Alvarado. Email: [e-mail] Phone (call or text): 541-709-8695.

Oregon state government is a large organization by nearly any standard. With over 40,000 employees working all over the state, in small communities and large, we are proving that government can be innovative. We work as a team, challenging ourselves to be better, faster and more efficient with taxpayer dollars. After all, when every day we are responsible for caring for the needs of a diverse population and thriving business community, we simply must have the best and brightest workforce. If you take responsibility for your actions, are passionate about helping others succeed, and have a reputation for excellence and honesty, why not make Oregon state government your next career move? Joining our team means you open the door to many possibilities. From entry level to executive, outdoor work to policy setting, we have a role for nearly every calling, expertise and background. If you’re looking at us from across the country (or beyond!), know that Oregon is one of the most beautiful places on earth. Made up of seven diverse regions, Oregon has the ocean, mountains, valleys, high desert, cities, small towns, and almost everything in between. Oregon “flies with her own wings.”