Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist)
State of Oregon, Salem, OR, United States
Position Title
Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist)
Initial Posting Date
03/09/2026
Application Deadline
03/24/2026
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.
Are you fluent in English and Spanish? Our diverse communities benefit from bilingual support. While not a requirement, preference will be given to candidates who possess this valuable skill.
Opportunity awaits! Imagine being a guiding light for those in need. As a Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Public Benefit Specialist), you have an opportunity to embrace diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect as you build trust during difficult moments. Make a difference in people's lives while nurturing your career.
Summary Of Duties
Perform eligibility determinations, redeterminations, and periodic reviews.
Conduct interviews with applicants 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 across the state.
Create a work environment where everyone feels welcomed, appreciated, and valued.
Participate in professional development opportunities and ongoing education of cultural awareness.
Minimum Qualifications A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record are required for this position.
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
Experience actively listening to clients and asking clarifying and open-ended questions to gather complete and relevant information.
Experience applying critical thinking and sound judgment to make informed decisions using available data and resources.
Experience using written and oral communication to share information clearly and effectively with diverse audiences.
Experience organizing tasks and managing time effectively to meet established deadlines.
Experience using technology tools to accurately input, retrieve, and manage client information.
Preference will be given to candidates that are bilingual in Spanish and English.
Working Conditions
Work will take place in offices and various community sites.
Occasional travel is required for conducting eligibility in the community, attending meetings, trainings, and supporting work in other offices as needed.
The work schedule is Monday to Friday, 8:15 am to 5:15 pm PT, with possible fluctuations based on service needs.
There may be occasional opportunities for overtime after 6 months.
You may interact with individuals experiencing trauma or emotional distress. There may be times when individuals have difficulties with managing their emotional responses.
You may meet situations requiring quick decision‑making to ensure your safety or the safety of others.
Application Materials Attention all candidates! A cover letter is encouraged but not required.
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.
Your application materials are used to determine your starting salary range. Please ensure that all education and experience you would like considered are included in your application materials. Note: Your resume and cover letter may be uploaded in the Resume/CV field on the online application. You can attach multiple files in this area at once.
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. 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.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) Usage: 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.
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.
The Oregon Department of Human Services does not offer visa sponsorship. Within three days of hire, you will be required to complete the U.S. 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 Please contact the recruiter for accommodation requests under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and application or job-specific questions.
Include the job requisition number: REQ-196381.
Recruiter: Amanda Alvarado.
Email: AMANDA.K.ALVARADO@odhs.oregon.gov
Phone (call or text): 541‑709‑8695.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist)
Initial Posting Date
03/09/2026
Application Deadline
03/24/2026
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.
Are you fluent in English and Spanish? Our diverse communities benefit from bilingual support. While not a requirement, preference will be given to candidates who possess this valuable skill.
Opportunity awaits! Imagine being a guiding light for those in need. As a Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Public Benefit Specialist), you have an opportunity to embrace diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect as you build trust during difficult moments. Make a difference in people's lives while nurturing your career.
Summary Of Duties
Perform eligibility determinations, redeterminations, and periodic reviews.
Conduct interviews with applicants 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 across the state.
Create a work environment where everyone feels welcomed, appreciated, and valued.
Participate in professional development opportunities and ongoing education of cultural awareness.
Minimum Qualifications A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record are required for this position.
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
Experience actively listening to clients and asking clarifying and open-ended questions to gather complete and relevant information.
Experience applying critical thinking and sound judgment to make informed decisions using available data and resources.
Experience using written and oral communication to share information clearly and effectively with diverse audiences.
Experience organizing tasks and managing time effectively to meet established deadlines.
Experience using technology tools to accurately input, retrieve, and manage client information.
Preference will be given to candidates that are bilingual in Spanish and English.
Working Conditions
Work will take place in offices and various community sites.
Occasional travel is required for conducting eligibility in the community, attending meetings, trainings, and supporting work in other offices as needed.
The work schedule is Monday to Friday, 8:15 am to 5:15 pm PT, with possible fluctuations based on service needs.
There may be occasional opportunities for overtime after 6 months.
You may interact with individuals experiencing trauma or emotional distress. There may be times when individuals have difficulties with managing their emotional responses.
You may meet situations requiring quick decision‑making to ensure your safety or the safety of others.
Application Materials Attention all candidates! A cover letter is encouraged but not required.
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.
Your application materials are used to determine your starting salary range. Please ensure that all education and experience you would like considered are included in your application materials. Note: Your resume and cover letter may be uploaded in the Resume/CV field on the online application. You can attach multiple files in this area at once.
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. 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.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) Usage: 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.
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.
The Oregon Department of Human Services does not offer visa sponsorship. Within three days of hire, you will be required to complete the U.S. 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 Please contact the recruiter for accommodation requests under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and application or job-specific questions.
Include the job requisition number: REQ-196381.
Recruiter: Amanda Alvarado.
Email: AMANDA.K.ALVARADO@odhs.oregon.gov
Phone (call or text): 541‑709‑8695.
#J-18808-Ljbffr