Benefits Support Staff; Public Benefits Specialist, Entry

Position Title Benefits Support Staff (Public Benefits Specialist, Entry)

Initial Posting Date 09/15/2026

Final date to receive applications 09/30/2026

Agency Department of Human Services

Salary Range $4,113 - $5,183

Position Type Employee

Position Title Benefits Support Staff (Public Benefits Specialist, Entry)

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!

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.

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.

• 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.

• 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 difficulty managing their emotional responses.
• You may meet situations…