The posting
Initial Posting Date:
10/05/2026
Application Deadline:
10/13/2026
Agency:
Department of Human Services
Salary Range:
$4,519 - $5,988
Position Type:
Employee
Position Title:
Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist) – 2 vacancies!
Job Description:
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! Our Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) NE Portland office is seeking two (2) talented individuals who have experience interviewing applicants to determine eligibility for programs and services through a trauma informed lens. If you are looking for a meaningful career that serves Oregon’s most vulnerable community members, apply today to join our team!
As an Eligibility Worker, you will work in the Portland Branch (on NE Killingsworth Street) assisting Oregonians in-person.
Summary of Duties
As an Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist), 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.
Learn more about our programs, as your work providing services will be through the Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP).
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 in communicating both verbally and in writing, complex and technical information in an understandable language to individuals with diverse educational, linguistic, cultural backgrounds.
- Experience researching, interpreting, and applying policies and regulations in a work environment with frequently changing processes.
- Experience prioritizing tasks and managing time to meet deadlines while using independent judgment to enhance overall productivity.
- Experience preparing and maintaining thorough client records and narratives.
- Demonstrated experience maintaining composure and professionalism while effectively engaging with applicants or clients in escalated or emotionally charged situations.
Attention all candidates! A cover letter is required.
- 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 Portland, Oregon on NE Killingsworth Street.
- 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.
- May require a valid driver's license or other acceptable method of transportation.
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:
- Email: [email protected]
