Initial Posting Date:
07/20/2026
Application Deadline:
07/27/2026
Agency:
Department of Human Services
Salary Range:
$4,519 - $5,988
Position Type:
Employee
Position Title:
Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist) - Bilingual English/Spanish preferred not required
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! If you possess the unique ability to connect with individuals and assess their needs through a compassionate lens, the Oregon Department of Human Services invites you to apply for a rewarding position that empowers our community's most vulnerable members. Apply Today!
We are seeking a dedicated Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist) Bilingual English/Spanish preferred - not required to join our dedicated Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) team in Beaverton.
Summary of Duties
As an Eligibility Worker you will:
Interview applicants in-person and by phone to gather and assess information for benefits we administer, such as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Long Term Care (LTC) services, Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF), Employment Related Day Care (ERDC), and various Medicaid (Health insurance) programs.
Perform eligibility determinations, redeterminations, and periodic reviews.
Assist customers in-person and over the phone who are receiving or 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.
Create a work environment where everyone feels welcomed, appreciated and valued.
Participate in professional development opportunities and ongoing education of cultural awareness.
Minimum Qualifications
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
Essential Attributes
We are looking for candidates with:
Skilled in conveying complex information clearly and professionally, both verbally and in written form, to clients, team members, and external agencies, supporting case documentation, service delivery, and informed client decision-making.
Experience interpreting and clearly explaining rules, procedures, and complex information to customers in person or over the phone, ensuring understanding, resolving concerns, and promoting a positive and professional customer service experience.
Experience planning, prioritizing, and completing work efficiently while maintaining quality and meeting deadlines.
Experience working with complex and shifting policies and procedures, and a demonstrated ability to remain flexible and willing to learn.
Demonstrated critical-thinking skills to quickly assess information, evaluate options, and make effective decisions, while efficiently navigating various technology platforms and databases to gather, analyze, and manage data.
Experience establishing positive relationships and connections with individuals from diverse backgrounds, roles, and personalities.
Preference will be given to candidates that are bilingual in Spanish and English.
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
Your work schedule will be 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday – Friday.
Work is conducted in-office and in-person at our Beaverton ODHS office.
May require sitting at a terminal or telephone for prolonged periods of the workday.
You will interact with a wide range of people including some who have experienced trauma and may be experiencing emotional and/or financial distress.
Consistent attendance is essential.
Flexibility/adaptability is essential due to a changing environment with regular policy, program, and technical adjustments.
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.
Driver Record Screening: As part of the pre-employment background check, applicants may be asked to complete a driving record review. A driving record that does not meet agency standards will not, by itself, disqualify an applicant from employment when driving is not an essential function of the 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’ and Oregon National Guard preference:
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 Tammie Moore. If you contact the recruiter, please include the job requisition number: REQ-203779.
Email: [email protected]
Phone (call or text): 971-201-0580
