Benefits Support Staff; 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.
** Are you fluent in English and Spanish?
** Our diverse communities' benefit from bilingual support. While not a requirement, preference will be given to candidates who have this valuable skill.
** Opportunity awaits!
** Join our team as a
** Benefits Support Staff (Public Benefit Specialist, Entry)**, where you'll play a pivotal role in providing exceptional office support and creating a welcoming environment for our clients.
** Summary of Duties
** As a
** Benefits Support Staff**, you will:
* Provide front desk help, answering phone calls, and guiding 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 given in person or electronically for completeness and accuracy.
* Document all interactions and records through the ONE 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 for this position.
* 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 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.
** Essential Attributes
** We are looking for candidates with:
* Experience managing multiple tasks, staying organized, keeping accuracy, and meeting deadlines.
* Experience providing fair, culturally responsive service to people with diverse backgrounds and identities.
* Experience handling confidential information professionally and in line with policies or procedures.
* Experience interacting with others in a respectful, courteous, and dependable manner while following workplace expectations and policies.
* Experience working collaboratively with a team to share responsibilities and support daily operations.
* Experience learning and applying new systems, policies, workflows, and schedule changes.
** Preference will be given to candidates that are bilingual in*
* ** Spanish and English.
**** Working Conditions
*** Duties for this role will be performed in the local office.
* Occasional travel is needed within the community to support administrative tasks, and work in other offices as needed.
* The work schedule is
** Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm PT**, with possible fluctuations based on service needs.
* You may interact with individuals experiencing trauma or emotional distress, and there may be times when individuals have…