Job Description

Initial Posting Date:

06/26/2026

Application Deadline:

07/06/2026

Agency:

Department of Human Services

Salary Range:

$4,519 - $5,988

Position Type:

Employee

Position Title:

Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist) Bilingual Preferred English/Spanish

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.

Bilingual Preferred – English & Spanish

You do not need to be bilingual to apply or be considered for this position. If you are bilingual, we encourage you to apply! We serve diverse communities and recognize the importance of serving people in their preferred language.

As an Eligibility Worker, you will work in our brand-new Seaside Branchassisting Oregonians in-person This position is not eligible for remote work.

of Duties

As an Eligibility Worker (Human Services Specialist 3), 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, by phone, by email 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).

Minimum Qualifications

• Two years of experience determining eligibility for an agency program by interviewing to assess the needs of clients and interpreting and applying the policies, rules, and guidelines applicable to the client's situation.

• An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience relative to the class concept.

Essential Attributes

We are looking for candidates with:

• Demonstrated experience communicating effectively and working with individuals of a diverse population, as well as with individuals experiencing financial or emotional stress.

• Experience successfully prioritizing work and attending to detail.

• Experience researching, interpreting, and applying policies and regulations in a work environment with frequently changing processes.

• Experience using time management, organization, and prioritization skills to meet deadlines.

• Experience working cooperatively in a team environment and making joint decisions in support of the department mission.

Preference will be given to candidates that are bilingual in English and Spanish.

Attention all candidates!

Clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications and essential attributes in your application or resume. Your application materials will determine if you are selected to move forward in the selection process. Please include detailed work and education history.

Working Conditions

• Work is conducted in offices and other program sites. This position is not eligible for remote work.

• May interact with clients who are under emotional or financial stress.

• May require sitting at a terminal or telephone for prolonged periods of the workday.

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.

• A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record is required for this position.

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’ preference information

• How to submit your Veteran documents for preference Please do not attach your Veterans’ preference documentation in the Resume/CV field of your application.

General Information

• This is a permanent, full-time position and is represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU).

• The salary listed is the non-PERS qualifying salary range. If the successful candidate is PERS qualifying, the salary range will reflect an additional 6.95%.

• 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 Ryan Bennett If you contact the recruiter, please include the job requisition number.

• Email: ryan.bennett @odhs.oregon.gov