Benefits Support Staff; Public Benefits Specialist, Entry

Overview

Initial Posting Date: 03/09/2026

Final date to receive applications: 03/17/2026

Agency: Department of Human Services

Salary Range: $3,798 - $4,954

Position Type: Employee

Position Title: Benefits Support Staff (Public Benefits Specialist, Entry)

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 historically underrepresented racial/ethnic groups, women, individuals with disabilities, veterans, LGBTQIA2S+ community members, and others to help us achieve a diverse and inclusive community.

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!

Join our team as a Benefits Support Staff (Public Benefit Specialist, Entry), where you ll play a pivotal role in providing exceptional office support and creating a welcoming environment for our clients.

As a Benefits Support Staff
, you will:

• Provide front desk assistance, answer phone calls, and guide clients to the right services.

• Distribute mail, handle case transfers, and manage emails.

• Schedule appointments and issue financial negotiables like Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards and checks.

• Review all applications, paperwork, and documentation submitted in person or electronically for completeness and accuracy.

• Document all interactions and records through the ONE and TRACS system.

• Create a welcoming environment for the public through various forms of communication.

• Maintain an organized and clean work area, ensuring efficient lobby flow and customer service.

• Use various computer systems and databases to manage information for the agency and clients.

A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record are required for this position.

• Two years of experience working in a reception area or call center, either interviewing to obtain information or providing customer service. This experience must have involved a high volume of work (e.g., data entry, assuring information on applications is complete and accurate, completing necessary documents, etc.); OR

• An associate degree in a Behavioral Science, Social Science or a closely related field AND six months of experience working in a busy reception area or call center, either interviewing to obtain information or providing customer service; OR

• An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience relative to the class concept.

We are looking for candidates with:

• Experience managing multiple tasks, staying organized, maintaining accuracy, and meeting deadlines.

• Experience providing equitable, culturally responsive service to people with diverse backgrounds and identities.

• Experience handling confidential information professionally and in line with policies or procedures.

• Experience interacting with others in a respectful, courteous, and dependable manner while following workplace expectations and policies.

• Experience working collaboratively with a team to share responsibilities and support daily operations.

• Experience learning and applying new systems, policies, workflows, and schedule changes.

Preference will be given to candidates that are bilingual in Spanish and English.

• Duties for this role will be performed in an office setting.

• Occasional travel is required for attending meetings, trainings, and supporting work in other offices as needed.

• The work schedule is Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm PT, with possible fluctuations based on service needs.

• There may be rare requirements for compensated overtime, including evenings and weekends.

• You may interact with individuals experiencing trauma or emotional distress. There may be times when individuals have difficulties with managing their emotional responses.

• You may meet situations requiring quick decision-making to ensure your safety or the safety of others.

• Substantial time will be spent stationary while operating a…