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

ODHS Employee Resource Group

Cost of Living Adjustments

Annual salary increases

Extensive benefits package

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

Job summary

The State of Oregon's Department of Human Services is seeking a Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist) to determine eligibility, conduct interviews, and communicate decisions to applicants. This full-time role supports diverse communities with a focus on equity and respect in service delivery.

Bilingual in English/Spanish preferred; a valid driver's license is required. Travel within the state and a standard Mon-Fri schedule are expected.

Qualifications

• One year of experience at the Human Services Specialist 1 level or two years of public-facing experience.
• AS degree plus six months public-facing experience.
• Equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

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

Document review

Multi-system navigation

Explain complex info

Task prioritization

Relationship building

Education

AS degree in Behavioral/Social Science

Equivalent education/experience

Job description

Position Title Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist)

Initial Posting Date10/05/2026

Application Deadline10/13/2026

AgencyDepartment of Human Services

Salary Range$4,519 - $5,988

Position TypeEmployee

Position TitleBenefit & 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.

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 needed to use state vehicles. Reasonable accommodation with the ADA or creative solutions in certain cases may be used to meet this need.

• 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 reviewing documents and entering information into multiple systems with accuracy.
• Experience navigating multiple software programs and web-based platforms to cross reference or verify information.
• Experience explaining complex information verbally and in writing to diverse audiences in a culturally responsive manner.
• Experience prioritizing tasks and managing workloads to consistently meet deadlines in a fast paced, dynamic environment.
• Experience building trust-based relationships and adapting to changing priorities collaboratively as a team.

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

Working Conditions

• Occasional travel may be needed within the community to conduct eligibility appointments.
• The work schedule is Monday to Friday, 8:05 am to 5:05 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.

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

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