Job Description

Initial Posting Date:

05/20/2026

Application Deadline:

05/27/2026

Agency:

Department of Human Services

Salary Range:

$4,519 - $5,988

Position Type:

Employee

Position Title:

Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist) - Bilingual English/Dari preferred

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! Join a team dedicated to ensuring fairness, accuracy, and timely access to essential services for individuals and families in need. As an Eligibility Worker, you will play a crucial role in conducting assessments, redeterminations, periodic reviews, and updates—helping recipients maintain eligibility across all OEP programs. Your work has a direct impact on fostering equity, well-being, and stability in communities across the state.

We are seeking a dedicated Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist) Bilingual English/Dari preferred - not required to join our dedicated Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) team in Beaverton.

of Duties

The Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) is part of the Oregon Department of Human ServicesOEP supports state staff who determine eligibility for people applying for and receiving medical, food, cash, and childcare benefits. It also manages the ONE Eligibility System used to process applications and deliver benefits to eligible individuals and families in Oregon. One in three people in Oregon receive benefits through the ONE Eligibility System. OEP administers the ONE Eligibility system in partnership with the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and the Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC).

As an Eligibility Worker, you will:  

Determine Program Eligibility:

• Conduct phone or in-person interviews to gather household details, income, resources, and other key information to assess their needs.

• Conduct collateral interviews or review supplemental materials as needed to make eligibility determination for applicable ODHS programs.

• Use relevant forms, computer systems, and tools to determine eligibility at intake, during benefit renewals, and when recipients report household changes.

• Explain applicant rights and responsibilities during the initial application interview and when benefits are changed and renewed.

• Process data in a timely manner to ensure delivery of benefits and services.

Provide triage, information, and referrals:

• Work closely and collaboratively with Oregonians, other agencies, medical providers, and community partners to provide benefits, services and information.

• In supporting Oregonians, provide person-centered services with a trauma-informed approach to identify needs.

Minimum Qualifications

• 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 working in the community and with evaluating resources and services, while serving a diverse population.

• Experience communicating effectively and prioritizing multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment while maintaining a high attention to detail.

• Experience working with complex and shifting policies and procedures, and a demonstrated ability to remain flexible and willing to learn.

• Demonstrated willingness to uphold the ODHS Core Values, embracing anti-racism work and applying principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

• Experience utilizing multiple software systems, processing data, and problem solving all to meet accuracy and timeliness goals.

Attention all candidates! 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.

• Please upload a resume or complete the work history profile. Note: Your resume and cover letter may be uploaded in the Resume/CV field on the online application.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

Working Conditions

• Work Locations: In-Office position in Beaverton, Oregon.

• Work Environment: The office consists of cubicles, leading to frequent interruptions and a sometimes-high noise level.

• This role involves frequent in person and phone communication and electronic processing of work.  

• Fast-paced environment with constantly evolving policies and procedures. Repetitive motions, prolonged sitting, and daily computer and technology use.

• Work may be reviewed by leads, supervisors, Quality Assurance, audits, or through other quality activities such as reviewing information in ONE or phone calls with Oregonians.

• Hours: 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., Monday–Friday.

• Travel: Occasional travel for meetings, trainings, and other work-related activities.

• This role involves handling sensitive topics related to trauma, abuse, and crises, requiring a trauma-informed approach that is essential to ensure a safe environment.

• You may interact with individuals who have experienced trauma and may have difficulty managing their emotions.

• Be prepared for stressful situations that require quick decision-making to ensure safety for yourself and others.

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’ 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

We invite you to contact the recruiter for accommodation requests under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), application questions or job-specific questions.

• The recruiter for this position is Cris Jansen. If you contact the recruiter, please include the job requisition number: REQ- XXXXX

• Email: Crista.jansen@odhs.oregon.gov

• Phone (call or text): 503-826-6988