Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist)

Oregon Department of Human Services; White City (UT); On-site; USD 50,000 - 67,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Cola adjustments

PSLF eligibility

Annual raises

Excellent benefits

Job summary

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) White City team seeks an Eligibility Worker to interview applicants for SNAP, LTC, TANF, ERDC, and Medicaid, determining eligibility with a trauma-informed lens. Strong communication and careful data handling are essential as you help customers navigate benefits.

You will perform determinations and redeterminations, assist clients by phone or in person, and clearly explain eligibility outcomes while contributing to an inclusive, efficient office

Qualifications

• Experience interviewing applicants to determine eligibility for benefits.
• Ability to communicate complex information clearly, both verbally and in writing.
• Trauma-informed approach to identify needs and provide services.

Responsibilities

• Interview applicants in-person and by phone to gather information for benefits.
• Perform eligibility determinations, redeterminations, and periodic reviews.
• Assist customers in-person and over the phone who are applying for or receiving benefits.
• Communicate eligibility decisions to applicants.
• Provide person-centered services with a trauma-informed approach.

Skills

Interviewing

Trauma-informed

Communication

Time management

Attention to detail

Collaborative relationships

Education

Associate degree in Behavioral/Social Science

Equivalent education/experience

Job description

Initial Posting Date: 10/01/2026 Application Deadline: 10/08/2026 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! Our Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) White City team is seeking a talented individual who has experience interviewing applicants to determine eligibility for programs and services through a trauma informed lens.

Summary of Duties

• Interview applicants in-person and by phone to gather and assess information for benefits we administer, such as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Long Term Care (LTC) services, Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF), Employment Related Day Care (ERDC), and various Medicaid (Health insurance) programs.
• Perform eligibility determinations, redeterminations, and periodic reviews.
• Assist customers in-person and over the phone who are receiving or 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.
• 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 (1) year of experience working at the Human Services Specialist 1 level for the State of Oregon; OR Two (2) 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 (6) 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 communicating complex and technical information clearly, both verbally and in writing, to people from diverse backgrounds.
• Experience independently managing workload using time management, organization, and prioritization skills to consistently meet deadlines.
• Experience staying calm and professional when working with customers in challenging or emotional situations.
• Experience accurately applying complex rules and policies to various types of cases or circumstances.
• Experience conducting work that requires attention to detail, particularly with data entry and reviewing documents.
• Experience developing collaborative relationships with colleagues that foster trust, inclusivity, and respect.

Attention all candidates - A cover letter encouraged (but not required)! Your resume (optional) and cover letter (encouraged) may be uploaded in the Resume/CV field on the online application. 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 hiring process and will be used to determine your starting salary range if you are selected as a final candidate. Please include detailed work history that includes the month/year start date and month/year end date for each role/job. If applicable for college degrees, please clearly indicate if a degree has been completed when providing educational history (graduation dates are not required on applications). 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 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. 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.

Working Conditions

Your work schedule will be 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday – Friday. Work is conducted in-office and in-person at our White City ODHS office. May require sitting at a terminal or telephone for prolonged periods of the workday. You will interact with a wide range of people including some who have experienced trauma and may be experiencing emotional and/or financial distress. Consistent attendance is essential. Flexibility/adaptability is essential due to a changing environment with regular policy, program, and technical adjustments.

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. May require a valid driver’s license or other acceptable method of transportation.

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.
• The salary range listed is the non-PERS monthly salary range.
• If you are already a participating PERS member or once you become PERS eligible, the salary range will increase by 6.95%.

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.