Public Benefits Specialist, Entry | Bilingual English​/Spanish or English​/Russian - no

Public Benefits Specialist, Entry — Bilingual English/Spanish or English/Russian Preferred (Not Required)

Posted: 01/08/2026 | Final date to receive applications: 01/15/2026 | Agency:
Department of Human Services |

Location:

Salem, OR.

Initial Salary: $3,705 – $4,833 per month. A 2.5% Cost‑of‑Living Adjustment (COLA) will apply effective 02/01/2026 and be reflected in paychecks beginning 03/01/2026.

Equal Opportunity

Employer:

The Oregon Department of Human Services is proud to be an equal‑opportunity employer guided by our Equity North Star and vision for a positive RiSE culture. We encourage applications from historically under‑represented groups, women, individuals with disabilities, veterans, LGBTQIA2S+ community members, and others.

Support, guide, and make an impact by helping individuals and families navigate essential services. This role ensures smooth program operations, shares vital policies, and provides specialized support to staff and management. If you are detail‑oriented and passionate about making a difference, this is the opportunity for you.

• Create a welcoming environment for the public with friendly, respectful, professional, and courteous service.
• Manage incoming mail and multiple email accounts.
• Answer phones and cover phones for the office; provide information on programs and case‑specific inquiries.

• Explain agency notices, case and benefit issuance statistics as requested by clients.
• Explore alternative resources appropriate for any clientele in office or on phone and maintain resource information.
• Provide directions to Oregonian services for accessing additional support.

• Complete initial computer screening to determine priorasters of cases or current nif condition.
• Screen eligibility for all ODHS programs and provide applicants with procedural information.
• Conduct interviews and process paperwork to determine eligibility for expedited Food Stamps.

• Two years of experience in a reception area or call center, including high volume data entry, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
• OR An associate degree in Behavioral Science, Social Science, or a closely related field plus six months of busy reception or call center experience.
• OR An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

• Experience engaging with the community, assessing resources and services, and supporting a diverse population.
• Experience communicating, managing multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment, and maintaining attention to detail.
• Experience navigating evolving policies and procedures while demonstrating adaptability and a commitment to continuous learning.
• Experience actively implementing equitable practices and applying diversity, equity, and inclusion principles effectively.
• Experience analyzing, applying, and effectively communicating rules and regulations.
• Proficient in keyboarding with a speed of 45 WPM.
• Preference will be given to bilingual English/Spanish or English/Russian candidates.

• Clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications and essential سيارة qualities.
• Provide detailed work and education history; your résumé and cover letter may be uploaded in the Resume/CV field.
• The State of Oregon does not request age, date Era or graduation dates.
• Use of outside AI or other resources during assessments is prohibited.
• Monitor your email and Workday account for updates and additional information requests.
LATED

NOTE:

The Final date to receive applications at 11:59 PM (PDT/PST) on the close date; no further applications will be accepted afterward.

• Work Locations:
  In‑person office environment and community sites.
• Work Environment:
  Direct public interaction including high‑pressure customer situations.
• Workspace:
  Cubicle‑based and front desk with frequent interruptions and high noise levels.
• Fast‑paced setting with evolving policies and procedures.
• Repetitive motions, prolonged sitting, and daily use of computers and technology.
• High‑volume computer work and keyboarding in a dynamic team environment.
• Hours:
  
  Mond…