Eligibility Worker; Public Benefit Specialist

Overview

Initial Posting Date: 01/21/2026

Final date to receive applications: 01/29/2026

Agency: Department of Human Services

Salary Range: $4,409 - $5,842

Position Type: Employee

Position Title: Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Public Benefit Specialist)

Job Description: 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.

Notice: The Oregon Department of Human Services is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are guided by Equity North Star and our vision for a 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 a diverse and inclusive community.

Imagine being a guiding light for those in need. You will 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.

As a Public Benefits Specialist
, you will work in our Klamath office assisting Oregonians in-person
.

• 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.

• 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.

We are looking for candidates with:

• Experience conducting work that requires attention to detail, particularly with data entry and reviewing documents.

• Experience adapting communication style to explain complex information such as rules or procedures verbally and in writing to diverse audiences.

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

• Experience providing customer service that is person centered and trauma informed.

• Demonstrated experience with technical skills that include basic computer and search engine knowledge, email communication and learning new web-based platforms.

• Demonstrated experience developing meaningful relationships that foster trust, inclusivity, and respect.

• Experience building and maintaining positive relationships with co-workers and clients through empathy and professionalism.

• This is an in-person position, duties will be conducted in an office setting.

• Employee’s work schedule will be Monday - Friday from 8 am - 5 pm PT.

• Occasional, compensated overtime may be required or voluntary, including evening and weekend work.

• May work with individuals experiencing trauma or crisis. Some individuals may have challenges managing their emotions.

• May encounter situations requiring quick decision-making to ensure the safety of oneself or others.

• You will communicate with Oregon residents frequently over the phone and in-person.

• Requires substantial time spent stationary while operating a computer.

Attention all candidates: clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications and essential attributes in your application materials. Your materials will determine if you are selected to move forward. Please include detailed…