Public Benefits Specialist (Eligibility Worker) | Bilingual Russian or Spanish preferred!

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

Benefits offered by this job

Employee Resource Groups

Cost of Living Adjustments

Annual salary increases

Job summary

State of Oregon's Oregon Department of Human Services seeks a Public Benefits Specialist (Eligibility Worker) in Gresham to determine program eligibility, interview households, and guide applicants through the benefits process. Bilingual Russian or Spanish preferred, with a 5% bilingual differential after testing, in a trauma-informed, culturally responsive environment.

The role emphasizes accurate policy interpretation, collaboration with community partners, and timely processing of benefits

Qualifications

• One year of experience at the Human Services Specialist 1 level.
• Two years of experience helping the public, interpreting and applying policies.
• An associate degree in Behavioral Science, Social Science or closely related field, plus six months of experience.

Responsibilities

• Determine program eligibility by interviewing households to collect income, resources, and needs.
• Use forms and computer systems to determine eligibility for ODHS programs.
• Provide triage, information, and referrals with partners to deliver benefits.
• Explain applicant rights and responsibilities during interviews and renewals.

Skills

Interviewing customers

Policy interpretation

Teamwork

Time management

Data entry

Trauma-informed

Education

Associate degree in Behavioral or Social Science

Job description

Salary Range: $4,519 - $5,988 Position Type: Employee Position Title: Public Benefits Specialist (Eligibility Worker) | Bilingual Russian or Spanish preferred!

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. Bilingual preferred position: 1. Russian/English OR; 2. Spanish/English Are you fluent in English and Russian or Spanish? Our diverse communities benefit from bilingual support. While not a requirement, preference will be given to candidates who possess this valuable skill. If you are bilingual, you will receive 5% bilingual differential pay upon passing test(s) evaluating your proficiency. NOTE: You do not need to be bilingual to apply or be considered for this position. If you are bilingual, we encourage you to apply!

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.
• Two 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 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 working in a social/human services setting interviewing customers over the phone and/or in person.
• Experience accurately applying complex rules and policies to a variety of situations.
• Experience working in a team setting with others and developing collaborative relationships that foster trust, inclusivity, and respect.
• Experience independently managing workload using time management, organization, and prioritization skills to consistently meet deadlines.
• Experience conducting work that requires attention to detail, particularly with data entry and reviewing documents.
• Experience serving a high volume of diverse customers in a trauma-informed and culturally responsive manner.
• Attention all candidates! 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 selection process.
• Please include detailed work and education history. Please upload a resume or complete the work history profile.
• Note: Your resume (optional) and cover letter (optional) may be uploaded in the Resume/CV field on the online application.
• 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 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.
• 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.

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

Veteran’s 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.

Work Locations: In-Office position in Gresham, Oregon.

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.

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.”