Benefits Support Staff; Public Benefits Specialist, Entry | Bilingual English

Overview

Position Title: Benefits Support Staff (Public Benefits Specialist, Entry) | Bilingual English/Spanish preferred

Initial Posting Date: 02/19/2026

Final date to receive applications: 02/26/2026

Agency: Department of Human Services

Salary Range: $3,798 - $4,954

Position Type: Employee

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 historically underrepresented groups and others to help us achieve a diverse and inclusive community. The Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) provides direction and support to state staff working to determine eligibility for medical, food, cash and childcare benefits.

OEP administers the ONE Eligibility system in partnership with the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and the Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC). OEP operates based on service equity, customer service, consistency and operational efficiency.

As a Benefits Support Staff
, you will provide administrative duties and customer service support in the Oregon Eligibility Program (OEP) Team in Tigard. If you are detail-oriented and passionate about making a difference, this is an opportunity to contribute to a high-impact program.

• Administrative Duties/Customer Service
  • Work in office reception area and create a welcoming environment with friendly, respectful, professional, and courteous service.
  • Respond to in-person, phone, email and mail client inquiries regarding ODHS programs and services.
  • Receive and review incoming applications and documents, mail, faxes and emails.
• Eligibility Support
  • Complete initial case screening to determine prior and/or current case history and enter new application information.
  • Perform basic case updates such as changes in contact information, health care provider preference and demographics, and notate case information into databases.
  • Explain agency notices, case status information and benefit issuances as requested by clients.
  • Activate and issue/mail out EBT cards to qualifying clients.
• Eligibility Screening
  • Complete initial computer screening to determine prior case history or current eligibility.
  • Screen eligibility potential for all ODHS programs and provide applicants with procedural information to apply for said programs.

• Two years of experience working in a reception area or call center with high-volume data entry and customer service experience; OR
• An associate degree in a Behavioral Science, Social Science or related field AND six months of relevant experience; OR
• An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience relative to the class concept.

• Experience engaging with the community, assessing resources and supporting a diverse population.
• Experience effectively communicating, managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment, and maintaining attention to detail.
• Experience navigating evolving policies and procedures with adaptability and a commitment to continuous learning.
• Experience implementing equitable practices and applying diversity, equity, and inclusion principles.
• Experience analyzing, applying, and communicating rules and regulations.
• Experience explaining complex information to clients and adapting communication for diverse audiences.
• Experience resolving conflicts with active listening and compassion.

• A cover letter is required. Clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications and essential attributes in your application materials. Include detailed work and education history.
• Ensure your application materials (resume and job history) are clearly outlined as this information will be used to determine starting salary range. Be prepared to provide education verification if required.
• The State of Oregon does not request or require your age or birth date during the application process.
• Outside resources such as AI software are prohibited unless stated by the hiring agency.
• Monitor email and Workday for updates. You may be asked to submit additional…