Eligbility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist)

State of Oregon

About The Position

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. 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! Imagine being a guiding light for those in need. As an 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 As an Eligibility Worker, you will: 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 We are looking for candidates with: 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. Working Conditions Work will take place in offices, participants' homes, and various community sites. Some travel may be required for supporting other branch offices or conducting community appointments. The work schedule is Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm PT, with possible fluctuations based on service needs. There may be occasional optional compensated overtime, including evenings and weekends. 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. Attention all candidates! 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. 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 Veterans’ 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. Please include the job requisition number: REQ-193485. Recruiter: Amanda Alvarado. Email: [email protected] Phone (call or text): 541-709-8695. 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.”

Requirements

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.
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.

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.