State of Oregon
Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist), Bilingual Required; E
State of Oregon, Salem, Oregon, us, 97308
Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist)
State of Oregon – Department of Human Services.
Base Pay Range
Initial Posting Date: 12/18/2025
Application Deadline: 01/04/2026
Agency: Department of Human Services
Salary Range: $4,409.00 - $5,842.00
Position Type: Employee
Position Title: Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist), Bilingual Required; English/Russian
Job Description The recruitment deadline has been extended until January 4th, 2026.
Oregon Department of Human Services is 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! Imagine being the lifeline for families in need, ensuring they receive the essential services that can transform their lives – this is the vital role of a Benefit & Eligibility Worker, where your commitment to fostering well‑being and stability shapes the future of communities across the state.
Bilingual Requirement
English and Russian proficiency required.
Test requirement: Passing evaluation of bilingual proficiency.
5% differential pay may apply based on passing the language test.
Summary of Duties
Determine Program Eligibility :
Conduct phone or in‑person interviews to gather household details, income, resources, and other key information.
Conduct collateral interviews or review supplemental materials as needed.
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 change or renew.
Process data promptly to ensure delivery of benefits and services.
Provide Triage, Information, and Referrals :
Work closely with Oregonians, other agencies, medical providers, and community partners to provide benefits, services, and information.
Provide person‑centered services with a trauma‑informed approach to identify needs.
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
Experience demonstrating resilience by managing setbacks, delays, or unexpected challenges constructively.
Experience conducting work requiring attention to detail, particularly with data entry and reviewing documents.
Experience collaborating and communicating effectively both verbally and in writing with customers, colleagues, and diverse communities.
Experience researching, interpreting, and applying policies and regulations in a work environment with frequently changing processes.
Attention All Candidates!
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 make sure your application materials, resume, and job history are clearly outlined as this information will be used to determine your starting salary range. If 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 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
Position requires office attendance, Monday – Friday, 8 AM – 5 PM.
Travel may be required to meet business needs or attend employee training.
Overtime or additional hours beyond your normal schedule is rare, however could be based on business needs.
May interact with individuals who have experienced trauma and may have difficulty managing their emotions.
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.
Fast‑paced environment with constantly evolving policies and procedures. Repetitive motions, high office noise levels, prolonged sitting, and daily computer and technology use.
This position requires good attendance and appropriate use of paid leave to ensure workload coverage for vacations and other leaves, as well as acceptable customer service for the Oregonians we serve.
Background Checks And Requirements
Conduct a criminal history and background check for finalists. Adverse criminal history may lead to disqualification.
Oregon Department of Human Services does not offer visa sponsorship. Within three days of hire, complete the I‑9 form to confirm authorization to work in the United States. ODHS will use E‑Verify.
HB3187: The State of Oregon does not request or require age, date of birth, attendance, or graduation dates from an educational institution during the application process.
A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record are required.
Benefits
ODHS Employee Resource Group communities that promote shared learning.
Cost of Living Adjustments.
Annual salary increases (until top of the listed salary range).
Amazing benefits package.
Possible eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Employment Preference
Veterans’ preference information.
How to submit your Veteran documents for preference. Please do not attach your Veterans’ preference documentation in the resume/CV field of your application.
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
Recruiter: Rochelle Peters. Please include the job requisition number if you contact the recruiter.
Email: Rochelle.m.peters@odhs.oregon.gov
We invite you to contact the recruiter for accommodation requests under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), application questions or job‑specific questions.
Location Salem, OR
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Base Pay Range
Initial Posting Date: 12/18/2025
Application Deadline: 01/04/2026
Agency: Department of Human Services
Salary Range: $4,409.00 - $5,842.00
Position Type: Employee
Position Title: Benefit & Eligibility Worker (Public Benefits Specialist), Bilingual Required; English/Russian
Job Description The recruitment deadline has been extended until January 4th, 2026.
Oregon Department of Human Services is 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! Imagine being the lifeline for families in need, ensuring they receive the essential services that can transform their lives – this is the vital role of a Benefit & Eligibility Worker, where your commitment to fostering well‑being and stability shapes the future of communities across the state.
Bilingual Requirement
English and Russian proficiency required.
Test requirement: Passing evaluation of bilingual proficiency.
5% differential pay may apply based on passing the language test.
Summary of Duties
Determine Program Eligibility :
Conduct phone or in‑person interviews to gather household details, income, resources, and other key information.
Conduct collateral interviews or review supplemental materials as needed.
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 change or renew.
Process data promptly to ensure delivery of benefits and services.
Provide Triage, Information, and Referrals :
Work closely with Oregonians, other agencies, medical providers, and community partners to provide benefits, services, and information.
Provide person‑centered services with a trauma‑informed approach to identify needs.
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
Experience demonstrating resilience by managing setbacks, delays, or unexpected challenges constructively.
Experience conducting work requiring attention to detail, particularly with data entry and reviewing documents.
Experience collaborating and communicating effectively both verbally and in writing with customers, colleagues, and diverse communities.
Experience researching, interpreting, and applying policies and regulations in a work environment with frequently changing processes.
Attention All Candidates!
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 make sure your application materials, resume, and job history are clearly outlined as this information will be used to determine your starting salary range. If 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 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
Position requires office attendance, Monday – Friday, 8 AM – 5 PM.
Travel may be required to meet business needs or attend employee training.
Overtime or additional hours beyond your normal schedule is rare, however could be based on business needs.
May interact with individuals who have experienced trauma and may have difficulty managing their emotions.
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.
Fast‑paced environment with constantly evolving policies and procedures. Repetitive motions, high office noise levels, prolonged sitting, and daily computer and technology use.
This position requires good attendance and appropriate use of paid leave to ensure workload coverage for vacations and other leaves, as well as acceptable customer service for the Oregonians we serve.
Background Checks And Requirements
Conduct a criminal history and background check for finalists. Adverse criminal history may lead to disqualification.
Oregon Department of Human Services does not offer visa sponsorship. Within three days of hire, complete the I‑9 form to confirm authorization to work in the United States. ODHS will use E‑Verify.
HB3187: The State of Oregon does not request or require age, date of birth, attendance, or graduation dates from an educational institution during the application process.
A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record are required.
Benefits
ODHS Employee Resource Group communities that promote shared learning.
Cost of Living Adjustments.
Annual salary increases (until top of the listed salary range).
Amazing benefits package.
Possible eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Employment Preference
Veterans’ preference information.
How to submit your Veteran documents for preference. Please do not attach your Veterans’ preference documentation in the resume/CV field of your application.
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
Recruiter: Rochelle Peters. Please include the job requisition number if you contact the recruiter.
Email: Rochelle.m.peters@odhs.oregon.gov
We invite you to contact the recruiter for accommodation requests under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), application questions or job‑specific questions.
Location Salem, OR
#J-18808-Ljbffr