Initial Posting Date:
01/16/2026Application Deadline:
01/25/2026Agency:
Department of Human ServicesSalary Range:
$4409.00 - $5842.00Position Type:
EmployeePosition Title:
Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist) Bilingual English/Arabic preferred - not required.Job Description:
*Note: Effective Feb. 1 2026 the compensation plan for this position will be increased to reflect a Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) of 2.5%. The salary listed in this posting does not reflect the COLA.
TheOregon Department of Human Servicesis proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.We are guided by ourEquity North Starand our vision for a positiveRiSEorganizational culturethat 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 usachieve our vision of a diverse and inclusive community.
Opportunityawaits!Join a team dedicated to ensuring fairness accuracy andtimelyaccess 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 updateshelping recipientsmaintaineligibility 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 dedicatedBenefit and Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist) (Bilingual English/Arabicor English/Ukrainianpreferred - not required.)to join our dedicatedOregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) team in Beaverton.
BilingualEnglish/Arabicor English/Ukrainianpreferred - notrequired:
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.
Together we can create lasting change!
Summary of Duties
TheOregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP)is part of theOregon Department of Human Services. OEP supports state staff whodetermineeligibility for people applying for and receiving medical food cash and childcare benefits. It also manages theONE Eligibility Systemused to process applications and deliver benefits to eligible individuals and families in Oregon. One in three people in Oregon receive benefits through the ONEEligibility 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 aBenefit and Eligibility Workeryou will:
DetermineProgram 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 todetermineeligibility at intake during benefit renewals and when recipients report household changes.
Explain applicant rights and responsibilities during theinitialapplication interview and when benefits are changed and renewed.
Process datain a timely mannerto 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 benefitsservicesand information.
In supporting Oregonians provide person-centered services with a trauma-informed approach toidentifyneeds.
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 publicproviding assistanceand 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 publicproviding assistanceand interpreting and applying policies rules or guidelines;OR
An equivalent combination of education training and experiencerelativeto the class concept.
Essential Attributes
We are looking for candidates with:
Experience working in the community and with evaluating resources and serviceswhile serving a diverse population.
Experience communicating effectively and prioritizing multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment whilemaintaininga 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.
Experienceutilizingmultiple 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 attributesin your application materials. Your application materials willdetermineif you are selected to move forward in theselectionprocess.Pleaseinclude detailed work and education history.
Please make sure your application materials including your resume and job history are clearly outlined as this information will be used todetermineyour starting salary range.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.Note:Your resume and cover letter may be uploaded in the Resume/CV field on the online application.
TheState of Oregondoes not request or require your age date of birthattendanceor graduation dates from an educational institution during the application process.
The use of outside resources such asArtificial Intelligence (AI) softwareduring applicant skill assessments examinations and/or interviews is prohibited unless otherwisestatedby the hiring agency. Unauthorized use of outside resources during the hiring process will result in disqualification.
Important:Pleasemonitorboth your email and Workday account for updatesregardingthis recruitment. You may be asked tosubmitadditionalinformation afterinitialapplication.
The job posting closes at 11:59 PM (PDT/PST) on the close date.Immediately after yousubmityour application be sure to respond to the two questionnaires relating to public records requests and veterans preference. These questions are necessary to complete 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 frequentin person andphone 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. MondayFriday.
Travel:Occasional travel for meetings trainings and otherwork-relatedactivities.
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 willbe requiredto complete the US Department of Homeland Securitys I-9 form confirming authorization to work in the United States. ODHS will use E-Verify to confirm that youare authorized towork in the United States.
A valid drivers license and acceptable driving record arerequiredfor this position.
Benefits
Cost of Living Adjustments.
Annual salary increases (until you reach the top of the listed salary range).
Amazingbenefits package.
Possible eligibilityfor thePublic Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Employment Preference
Veteranspreference:
General Information
This is apermanentfull-timeposition and isrepresented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU).
This recruitment may be used to fill future vacanciesinthe same classification.
Contact Information
We invite you to contact the recruiter for accommodation requests under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) applicationquestionsor job-specific questions.
The recruiter for this position isNadja Rue. If you contact the recruiter please include the job requisition number:REQ-193541.
Required Experience:
IC
The Department of Administrative Services is the central administrative agency of Oregon’s Executive Branch. Our mission is to support state government to serve the people of Oregon. By providing reliable service, accurate information and creative solutions, we strive to set the ...