Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist)

Oregon Department of Human Services; Newport (RI); On-site; USD 54,000 - 72,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

COLA

Salary increases

Benefits package

Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)

Veterans’ preference

Job summary

The Oregon Department of Human Services is seeking an Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist) to determine program eligibility and assist Oregonians in Newport in person. You will conduct interviews, review materials, explain rights, and coordinate benefits with partners while delivering person-centered services.

This is a permanent, full-time role emphasizing equity, collaboration with community partners, and ongoing program training through the Oregon Eligibility Partnership.

Qualifications

• One year of experience working at the Human Services Specialist 1 level for the State of Oregon or two years of public-facing work.
• An associate degree in Behavioral or Social Science and six months of public-facing experience.
• Equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

Responsibilities

• Determine program eligibility through interviews to gather household details, income, resources.
• Review materials to determine eligibility for applicable ODHS programs.
• Explain applicant rights and responsibilities during intake, changes, and renewals.
• Process data to ensure timely delivery of benefits and services.
• Provide triage, information, and referrals with partners and providers.
• Support Oregonians with trauma-informed, person-centered services.
• Learn about programs through the Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP).

Skills

Experience in human services

Education

Associate degree in Behavioral/Social Science or related field

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)

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. 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

• 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 to determine eligibility at intake, during benefit renewals, and when recipients report household changes.
• Explain applicant rights and responsibilities during the initial application interview and when benefits are changed and renewed.
• Process data in a timely manner to 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, services and information.
• In supporting Oregonians, provide person-centered services with a trauma-informed approach to identify needs.
• 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;
• An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience relative to the class concept.

Essential Attributes

• 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.

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]

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.”