Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Public Benefit Specialist) Bilingual English & Spanish Preferred

Initial Posting Date:

03/24/2026

Application Deadline:

04/08/2026

Agency:

Department of Human Services

Salary Range:

4409.00-5842.00

Position Type:

Employee

Position Title:

Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Public Benefit Specialist) Bilingual English & Spanish Preferred

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.

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.

Are you fluent in English and Spanish? Our diverse communities' benefit from bilingual support. While not a requirement, preference will be given to candidates who possess this valuable skill.

Opportunity awaits!

Imagine being a guiding light for those in need. You have an opportunity to embrace diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect as you build trust during difficult moments. Make a difference in people's lives while nurturing your career.

Summary of Duties

As a Benefit & Eligibility Worker, you will:

• Perform eligibility determinations, redeterminations, and periodic reviews.

• Conduct interviews with applicants applying for benefits.

• Communicate eligibility decisions to applicants.

• Provide person-centered services with a trauma-informed approach to identify needs.

• Be responsible for accurate and timely eligibility determinations across the state.

• Create a work environment where everyone feels welcomed, appreciated and valued.

• Participate in professional development opportunities and ongoing education of cultural awareness.

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 actively listening to clients and asking clarifying and open-ended questions to gather complete and relevant information.

• Experience applying critical thinking and sound judgment to make informed decisions using available data