Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist) – 2 vacancies!

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

Benefits offered by this job

Amazing benefits package

Salary increases

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

Job summary

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) invites applications for two Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist) positions in the Portland NE Killingsworth Street office. This full-time, in-office role focuses on interviewing applicants to determine program eligibility using a trauma-informed lens, serving Oregon's vulnerable communities.

Primary duties include intake interviews, data collection, and collaboration with agencies to provide benefits and referrals.

Qualifications

• One year of experience at Human Services Specialist 1 level or two years with the public.
• Associate degree in Behavioral Science, Social Science or related field with six months public service experience.
• Equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

Responsibilities

• Conduct interviews to gather household details, income, resources, and other information to assess eligibility.
• Review collateral materials as needed to determine eligibility for ODHS programs.
• Use forms, computer systems, and tools to determine eligibility at intake, renewals, and when household changes occur.
• Explain applicant rights and responsibilities during the initial interview and when benefits change.
• Process data in a timely manner to ensure delivery of benefits and services.
• Provide triage, information, and referrals in collaboration with partners; deliver trauma-informed services.

Skills

Trauma-informed communication

Interviewing

Written & verbal communication

Time management

Record keeping

Education

Associate degree in Behavioral/Social Science or related field

Job description

Position Title

Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist) – 2 vacancies!

Initial Posting Date

10/05/2026

Application Deadline

10/13/2026

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.

Opportunity awaits! Our Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) NE Portland office is seeking two (2) talented individuals who have experience interviewing applicants to determine eligibility for programs and services through a trauma informed lens. If you are looking for a meaningful career that serves Oregon’s most vulnerable community members, this role offers that opportunity.

As an Eligibility Worker, you will work in the Portland Branch (on NE Killingsworth Street) assisting Oregonians in-person.

Summary Of Duties

As an Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist), you will:

• 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. OR
• An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience relative to the class concept.

Essential Attributes

We are looking for candidates with:

• 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.
• Experience prioritizing tasks and managing time to meet deadlines while using independent judgment to enhance overall productivity.
• Experience preparing and maintaining thorough client records and narratives.
• Demonstrated experience maintaining composure and professionalism while effectively engaging with applicants or clients in escalated or emotionally charged situations.

Working Conditions

• Work Locations: In-Office position in Portland, Oregon on NE Killingsworth Street.
• Work Environment: The office consists of cubicles, leading to frequent interruptions and a sometimes-high noise level.
• This role involves frequent in person and phone communication and electronic processing of work.
• Fast-paced environment with constantly evolving policies and procedures. Repetitive motions, prolonged sitting, and daily computer and technology use.
• Work may be reviewed by leads, supervisors, Quality Assurance, audits, or through other quality activities such as reviewing information in ONE or phone calls with Oregonians.
• Hours: 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., Monday–Friday.
• Travel: Occasional travel for meetings, trainings, and other work-related activities.
• This role involves handling sensitive topics related to trauma, abuse, and crises, requiring a trauma-informed approach that is essential to ensure a safe environment.
• You may interact with individuals who have experienced trauma and may have difficulty managing their emotions.
• Be prepared for stressful situations that require quick decision-making to ensure safety for yourself and 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.
• 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.

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:
• Email: [e-mail]