Public Benefits Specialist, Entry Bilingual – Spanish

Initial Posting Date: 02/25/2026

Final date to receive applications: 03/04/2026

Agency: Department of Human Services

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

Position Type: Employee

Position Title: Public Benefits Specialist, Entry Bilingual – Spanish required

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! Become the cornerstone of support for those seeking vital services, as you leverage your comprehensive understanding of internal programs to navigate clients through the intricate landscape of OEP Programs with confidence and clarity.

We are seeking a dedicated Public Benefit Specialist, Entry | Bilingual English/Spanish required to join our Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) team in Salem.

• This position is bilingual and requires duties to be carried out in both English and Spanish.
• The job offer will be contingent upon passing test(s) evaluating your proficiency in the bilingual requirements of the position.
• This position may receive a 5% differential pay based on passing the required language test.

• Create a welcoming environment for the public with friendly, respectful, professional, and courteous service.
• Receive and review incoming applications and documents, mail, faxes and emails.
• Gather and accurately enter/update client/case information into applicable State of Oregon databases.
• Complete initial case screening to determine prior and/or current case history and enter new application information.
• Perform basic case updates such as changes in contact information, health care provider preference and demographics, as well as notating case information into databases.

To qualify for this position, you must be bilingual in Spanish and English.

• 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.

• Experience prioritizing tasks and managing time effectively in a fast-paced work environment consistently meeting deadlines.
• Experience performing detail-oriented work with a high degree of accuracy and consistency.
• Experience handling confidential information with discretion by phone, in person, and in writing.
• Demonstrated interpersonal skills with the ability to build and maintain trusting, collaborative teams.

• Work Locations:
  In-person office environment.
• Work Schedule:
  
  Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM, with slight variations based on office business needs; overtime is not required.
• Travel:
  Some travel may be necessary for trainings, meetings, or office-related coverage. Employees using a personal or state vehicle must hold a valid driver’s license; otherwise, they must be able to arrange appropriate transportation.
• 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.

• If selected as a finalist, we will conduct a…