Public Benefit Specialist - Entry | Bilingual English​/Spanish

Public Benefit Specialist - Entry | Bilingual Preferred English/Spanish

Oregon Department of Human Services is 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.

• Help individuals and families seeking services by providing specialized assistance on behalf of program staff.
• Provide in‑person assistance to Oregonians, guiding customers through the Oregon Eligibility Program (OEP) and sharing rules, policies, procedures, and programs.
• Serve as the first point of contact in the office, creating a welcoming environment for individuals and families.
• Support the day‑to‑day operation of the office infrastructure.
• Explain procedures, including applying for benefits, providing documentation, and requesting grievance or hearings.
• Assist Oregonians through a trauma‑informed lens in person, over the phone, and via email.
• Provide a safety net, family stability, and connections to careers that guide Oregonians out of poverty.

• Two (2) years’ experience working in a reception area or call center, interviewing to obtain information or providing customer service, involving a high volume of work (e.g., data entry, ensuring applications are complete and accurate).
• Or an associate degree in Behavioral Science, Social Science, or a closely related field plus six (6) 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.

• Experience conducting work requiring attention to detail, especially with data entry and reviewing documents.
• Ability to adapt communication style to explain complex information verbally and in writing to diverse audiences.
• Experience providing person‑centered, trauma‑informed customer service.
• Proficiency with basic computer and search engine use, email communication, and learning new web‑based platforms.
• Skill in building and maintaining positive relationships with co‑workers and clients through empathy and professionalism.
• Skill in evaluating resources and services while serving a diverse population and handling tense or escalated situations while maintaining excellent customer service.

• In‑person position conducted in an office setting with cubicles; noise level can be high.
• Work schedule Monday‑Friday 8 am‑5 pm PT; occasional overtime, evenings, or weekends may be required.
• Frequent communication with Oregon residents over the phone and in person.
• Requires prolonged periods of sitting at a terminal or telephone.
• Interaction with individuals who may have experienced trauma or emotional/financial distress.
• Consistent attendance and flexibility/adaptability essential due to changing environment.

• ODHS Employee Resource Group communities that promote shared learning.
• Cost of living adjustments.
• Annual salary increases up to the top of the listed range.
• A comprehensive benefits package.
• Possible eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

• Eligible veterans and Oregon National Guard service members who meet the qualifications will be awarded preference.