Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist) Salem –Spanish bilingual preferred

State of Oregon; Salem (OR); Sur place; USD 50 000 - 67 000; Plein temps

Avantages offerts par ce poste

Annual salary increases

Bilingual differential pay

Excellent benefits package

Résumé du poste

State of Oregon's Department of Human Services (ODHS) seeks an Eligibility Worker for the Salem area. This role interviews applicants to determine program eligibility for SNAP, Medicaid, and other benefits, using a trauma-informed approach.

Preference is given to Spanish-English bilingual candidates, with a 5% bilingual differential after testing. The ODHS Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) Salem team focuses on equity and timely determinations.

Qualifications

• One year of experience at the Human Services Specialist 1 level.
• Two years of experience with the public.
• Associate degree in Behavioral Science or related field plus six months experience.

Responsabilités

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

Connaissances

Interviewing

Public assistance knowledge

Trauma-informed approach

Detail-oriented

Communication skills

Formation

Associate degree in Behavioral/ Social Science

Description du poste

Initial Posting Date

10/29/2026

Application Deadline

11/12/2026

Agency

Department of Human Services

Salary Range

$4,519 - $5,988

Position Type

Employee

Position Title

Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist) Salem –Spanish bilingual preferred

Job Description

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.

Our Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) Salem Cherry Ave team is seeking a talented individual who has experience interviewing applicants to determine eligibility for programs and services through a trauma informed lens.

Spanish/English Bilingual Preferred Position

You do not need to be bilingual to apply or be considered for this position. However, preference will be given to candidates who are bilingual in Spanish and English. We serve diverse communities and recognize the importance of serving people in their preferred language. If you are bilingual, you will receive 5% bilingual differential pay upon passing test(s) evaluating your proficiency.

Summary of Duties

Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) is a program within ODHS that determines eligibility for people living in Oregon who apply for medical, food, cash and childcare benefits through the ONE eligibility system. OEP plays critical part in the eligibility process that moves beyond integration and equality, focusing on equity of services and providing timely, accurate, and necessary eligibility determinations through a person-centered approach.

Responsibilities

• 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;
• Two (2) years of experience working with the public, providing assistance and interpreting and applying policies, rules, or guidelines;
• 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;
• An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience relative to the class concept.

Essential Attributes

• Experience completing work while maintaining accuracy and meeting deadlines.
• Experience conducting work that requires attention to detail, particularly with data entry and reviewing documents.
• Experience working in a fast-paced environment with frequently changing priorities.
• Experience remaining adaptable and patient as priorities and business needs shift throughout the day.

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 Salem Cherry Avenue 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.