Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist)

State of Oregon; Salem (OR); On-site; USD 50,000 - 67,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

ERGs and employee communities

COLA adjustments

Annual salary increases

Comprehensive benefits package

PSLF eligibility

Job summary

The State of Oregon’s Department of Human Services seeks a Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist) to determine benefits, interview applicants, and clearly communicate eligibility decisions. Bilingual Spanish/English preferred and considered as a plus in serving diverse communities.

This is a full-time, office-based role with opportunities for professional development and a commitment to equity and inclusion across Oregon communities.

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.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Skills

Active listening

Policy compliance

Clear communication

Adaptability

Time management

Education

Associate degree in Behavioral/Social Science or related field

Job description

Position Title
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

• 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.

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.