Public Benefits Specialist. Bilingual English​/Spanish

Overview

Join to apply for the Public Benefits Specialist. Bilingual English/Spanish Required role at Oregon Department of Human Services
.

This position is bilingual and requires duties to be done in both English and Spanish. Job offer will be contingent upon passing test(s) evaluating proficiency in the bilingual requirements. Bilingual differential pay is 5% of the employee's base pay.

This is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are guided by our Equity North Star and a vision for a positive RiSE organizational culture that advances equity and diversity. We encourage applications from historically underrepresented groups to help us achieve a diverse and inclusive community.

Opportunity awaits — contribute to helping Oregonians in need of support and resources and be part of the Oregon Eligibility Partnership to facilitate access to vital services.

Base pay range

$4,409 - $5,842

Initial Posting Date 12/29/2025
Final date to receive applications 01/12/2026
Agency Department of Human Services

Summary Of Duties
As a Public Benefits Specialist
, you will support Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP), a program within ODHS that determines eligibility for medical, food, cash, and childcare benefits through the ONE eligibility system. OEP focuses on equity of services and providing timely, accurate, and necessary eligibility determinations through a person-centered approach.

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

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.

We are looking for candidates with:

• Experience communicating decisions regarding the approval or denial of benefits or services and adapting communication style to explain complex information such as rules or procedures verbally and in writing to diverse audiences.
• Experience completing tasks or projects timely in a fast-paced, high volume business setting and conducting work that requires attention to detail, particularly with data entry and reviewing documents.
• Experience handling confidential or sensitive situations and information with unwavering professionalism, holding self and others to high standards of honesty and integrity.
• Demonstrated willingness to uphold the ODHS Core Values and experience providing customer service that is person centered and trauma informed, through a diversity, equity, inclusion lens that exemplifies our Equity North Star values of inclusivity, equity, service and well-being.
• Experience demonstrating active listening; listening to understand, retain information and applying lessons-learned to varying environments and situations; welcoming constructive feedback and suggestions to strengthen work performance.
• Experience developing collaborative relationships that foster trust, inclusivity, and respect with internal and external partners.

Attention all candidates! A cover letter is required. Failure to provide a Cover Letter will result in an application decline. Clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications and essential attributes in your application materials. Include detailed work and education history.

Working Conditions

• Office environment; may involve interruptions and variable noise levels.
• Occasional overtime may be available.
• Travel may be required to meet business needs or attend training. Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record may be required for state vehicle use.
• Good attendance pattern and use of accrued paid leave to ensure workload coverage.
• Work may involve interacting with individuals who may be angry or have behavioral or cognitive challenges.
• Flexible work schedule…