Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Public Benefit Specialist)

State of Oregon•Lexington, SC

21h•Onsite

About The Position

This position will receive a 2.5% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA), which is not reflected in the salary listed in this posting. The increase will be effective February 1, 2026, and will be reflected in paychecks beginning March 1, 2026. Opportunity awaits! 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! Imagine being a guiding light for those in need. 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. As a Public Benefits Specialist, you will work in our Ontario office assisting Oregonians in-person. Ontario is located in rural Eastern Oregon. 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 a critical part of the eligibility process that moves beyond integration and equality, to focus on equity of services and providing timely, accurate, and necessary eligibility determinations through a person-centered approach.

Requirements

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.
Experience conducting work that requires attention to detail, particularly with data entry and reviewing documents.
Experience adapting communication style to explain complex information such as rules or procedures verbally and in writing to diverse audiences.
Experience using time management, organization, and prioritization skills to meet deadlines.
Experience providing customer service that is person centered and trauma informed.
Demonstrated experience with technical skills that include basic computer and search engine knowledge, email communication and learning new web-based platforms.
Demonstrated experience developing meaningful relationships that foster trust, inclusivity, and respect.
Experience building and maintaining positive relationships with co-workers and clients through empathy and professionalism.
Required valid driver’s license or other acceptable method of transportation.
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.

Responsibilities

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.