Public Benefits Specialist (Eligibility Worker)

State of Oregon

5d•Onsite

About The Position

Note: 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. 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! Would you like the opportunity to make a positive impact on Oregonians in need of support and resources? Would you enjoy working with a diverse team that collaborates and learns together in service of children, families, and communities? If so, step into a role where your efforts directly empower Oregonians to rise above poverty—become a key player in the Oregon Eligibility Partnership and facilitate access to vital services that foster equity and well-being. 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. As a Public Benefits Specialist you will: Interview applicants and determine eligibility for people applying for various programs and benefits through interviewing, gathering and assessing information. Programs we administer include Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Long Term Care (LTC) services, Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF), Employment Related Day Care (ERDC), Domestic Violence services and various Medicaid (Health insurance) programs. Play a critical role in providing a safety net that supports better outcomes for Oregonians. Provide resources that support individual and family stability. Provide person-centered services with a trauma-informed approach to identify needs. Create a work environment where everyone feels welcomed, appreciated and valued. Participate in professional development opportunities and ongoing education of cultural awareness.

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 communicating effectively both verbally and in writing.
Experience adapting to changes and prioritizing tasks in a fast-paced, high- volume environment.
Demonstrated commitment to equity and antiracism work.
Experience applying principles of diversity and inclusion
Experience utilizing multiple software systems, processing data and problem solving to meet accuracy and timelines.

Responsibilities

Interview applicants and determine eligibility for people applying for various programs and benefits through interviewing, gathering and assessing information.
Play a critical role in providing a safety net that supports better outcomes for Oregonians.
Provide resources that support individual and family stability.
Provide person-centered services with a trauma-informed approach to identify needs.
Create a work environment where everyone feels welcomed, appreciated and valued.
Participate in professional development opportunities and ongoing education of cultural awareness.