Public Benefits Specialist

State of Oregon•New Bedford, MA

4d•Onsite

About The Position

Note: Effective Feb. 1, 2026, the compensation plan for this position will be increased to reflect a Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) of 2.5%. The salary listed in this posting does not reflect the COLA. 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. As a Public Benefits Specialist, you will work in the Southeast Portland Branch (on SE Malden Street) assisting Oregonians in-person. Summary of Duties As a Public Benefits Specialist, you will: Perform eligibility determinations, redeterminations, periodic reviews, and updates to changes for ODHS, Oregon Health Authority (OHA), and Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) programs. Interview applicants in person and by phone to gather information needed to assess and determine if there is a need for services and benefits. Assessing client family strengths and needs, connecting families to other resources and programs. You will update narrative report summarizing new information from client and collateral sources, findings of home visit, and conclusions. Learn more about our programs, as your work providing services will be through the Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP).

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.

Nice To Haves

Experience communicating complex and technical information clearly, both verbally and in writing, to people from diverse backgrounds.
Experience preparing and maintaining thorough client records and narratives.
Experience researching, interpreting, and applying policies and regulations in a work environment.
Demonstrated effectively prioritizing tasks and managing time to meet deadlines.
Experience in making decisions to resolve problems using independent judgment.
Experience staying calm and professional when working with applicants or clients in challenging or emotional situations.

Responsibilities

Perform eligibility determinations, redeterminations, periodic reviews, and updates to changes for ODHS, Oregon Health Authority (OHA), and Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) programs.
Interview applicants in person and by phone to gather information needed to assess and determine if there is a need for services and benefits.
Assessing client family strengths and needs, connecting families to other resources and programs.
Update narrative report summarizing new information from client and collateral sources, findings of home visit, and conclusions.