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 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.

We prefer applicants with bilingual English/Spanish skills. Bilingual differential pay of 5% of the employee’s base pay is provided to positions that request use of a language other than English. After passing the Spanish language exams, bilingual differential pay is 5% of the employee's base pay.

Opportunity awaits! Step into a role where your efforts directly empower Oregonians to rise above poverty—become a key player in the Oregon Eligibility Partnership and facilitate access to vital services that foster equity and well‑being.

• Serve as the first face of contact in the ODHS offices for customers entering the physical office or virtual applicants via online portal or telephone communication.
• Contribute to a welcoming environment as families interact with the department.
• Greet and assist Oregonians through a trauma‑informed lens.
• Assist clients applying for programs such as medical, cash for families (TANF), domestic violence services, food benefits (SNAP), childcare assistance (ERDC), and long‑term care services in‑person, by phone and via our online applicant portal to answer case status and other inquiries; provide information on how to access community resources.
• Work within a team that collaboratively rotates tasks to support the business needs of the office.

• 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, ensuring 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.

• Customer Service:
  Demonstrated professional demeanor that delivers quality customer service daily by telephone, in writing or in person.
• Computer
  
  Skills:
  
  Experience in usage and functionality of computers, web browsers, databases, and programs such as Microsoft along with other general office equipment such as phone systems, copiers, scanners, fax, etc. Experience using multiple systems in tandem for research and tracking.
• Communication:
  Experience conveying technical concepts, including complex rules, regulations and procedures, to customers with diverse learning styles and varying levels of familiarity with the subject.
• Collaborative Team Member:
  Experience building relationships with team members and elevating all team member voices with inclusion.
• Accuracy and Attention to Detail:
  Experience independently reviewing and verifying information for the purpose of completing accurate data entry and following up on necessary actions.
• Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging:
  Experience using trauma‑aware and strength‑based practices to create a welcoming environment and providing equitable service to overcome barriers.

• This position works in the storefront office and is not a remote position.
• The work schedule is Monday – Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
• Contact with the public, including Oregonians experiencing emotional and financial stress.
• Serve a diverse range of customers with compassion and professionalism through a trauma‑informed lens.
• May require sitting at a computer or telephone for prolonged periods of the workday.

• If selected as a finalist, we will conduct a criminal history and background check. Adverse…