Customer Service Guide; Public Benefits Specialist, Entry Bilingual English

Position: Customer Service Guide (Public Benefits Specialist, Entry) Bilingual English & Spanish Preferred
Location: Warm Springs

Job Title

Customer Service Guide (Public Benefits Specialist, Entry) Bilingual English & Spanish Preferred

Agency

Oregon Department of Human Services

Pay Range

• $3,705 - $4,833

Key Dates

• Initial Posting Date: 12/30/2025
• Final date to receive applications: 01/14/2026

Job Overview

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 organizational culture. 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? While not required, preference will be given to candidates who possess this valuable skill.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Minimum Qualifications

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

• Two years of experience working in a reception area or call center with a high volume of work (e.g., data entry, ensuring application accuracy, completing necessary documents) or
• An associate degree in Behavioral Science, Social Science, or a closely related field AND six months of experience in a busy reception area or call center, or
• An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience relative to the class concept.

Essential Attributes

• Experience collaborating with team members from diverse backgrounds to achieve common goals.
• Customer service experience demonstrating active listening, empathy, and respect for diverse clients.
• Experience typing accurately and navigating various computer systems to enhance productivity.
• Experience maintaining precise and accurate records while completing data entry tasks.
• Experience prioritizing critical tasks and managing time to meet deadlines.
• Experience handling confidential and sensitive information with professionalism, upholding high standards of integrity and honesty.

Preferences

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

Working Conditions

• In-person position conducted in an office setting.
• Rare travel may be required for attending meetings, trainings, or supporting work in other district offices.
• Work schedule:
  
  Monday – Friday, 8 am – 5 pm PT; hours may fluctuate based on service needs.
• Frequent communication with Oregon residents over the phone and in-person.
• Interaction with individuals experiencing trauma or emotional distress; may require quick decision-making to ensure safety.

Additional Application Instructions

• Clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications and essential attributes in your application materials. Your application will determine if you are selected to move forward.
• Include detailed work and education history.
• Resume and cover letter may be uploaded in the Resume/CV field; multiple files allowed.
• Age, date of birth, graduation dates are not requested. If a degree is listed as a minimum qualification, you will be required to provide verification if selected.
• Use of outside AI resources during assessments or interviews is prohibited unless stated otherwise.

Background Checks and Requirements

• Criminal history and background check for finalists; adverse findings may lead to disqualification.
• No visa sponsorship; completion of I‑9 and E‑Verify within three days of hire required.

Benefits

• ODHS Employee Resource Group communities.
• Cost of Living Adjustments.
• Annual salary increases (up to top of listed range).
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Possible eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Employment Preference

• Veterans and Oregon National Guard service members who meet qualifications will receive candidate preference.

General Information

• Permanent, full-time position represented by SEIU.
• Recruitment may fill future vacancies in the same classification.

Contact Information

Please contact the recruiter for accommodation requests under ADA, application, or job‑specific questions.

Job requisition number:
REQ-192650

• Recruiter:
  Amanda Alvarado
• Email: AMANDA.K.ALVARADOgon.gov
• Phone (call or text): 541‑709‑8695

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