Benefits Support Staff; Public Benefits Specialist, Entry

Position Title

Benefits Support Staff (Public Benefits Specialist, Entry)

06/17/2026

07/01/2026

Department of Human Services

$3,798 - $4,954

Employee

The Oregon Department of Human Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer guided by our Equity North Star and a vision for a positive RiSE organizational culture that advances equity and diversity. 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.

The ODHS Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) Enterprise team seeks a dedicated individual who provides quality customer service through a trauma‑informed lens. The role is located in rural eastern Oregon at the Enterprise office, and requires daily presence.

OEP determines eligibility for Oregon residents applying for medical, food, cash, and childcare benefits via the ONE eligibility system. OEP plays a critical part in ensuring timely, accurate, and necessary eligibility determinations through a person‑centered approach.

• Serve as the first point of contact in the office, welcoming individuals and families.
• Support office operations including front‑desk assistance, answering phones, and guiding clients to appropriate services.
• Assist Oregonians through a trauma‑informed lens in person, over the phone, and via email.
• Distribute mail, handle case transfers, and manage emails.
• Schedule appointments and issue financial negotiables such as Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards and checks.
• Review applications, paperwork, and other documentation for completeness and accuracy.
• Document all interactions and records using the ONE and TRACS systems.
• Maintain an organized, clean work area to ensure efficient lobby flow and customer service.
• Use various computer systems and databases to manage agency and client information.

• Two years of experience in a reception or call center environment involving high‑volume data entry, verification of application information, or related work. OR
• An associate degree in Behavioral Science, Social Science, or a closely related field plus six months of relevant experience. OR
• An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

• Front‑line customer service experience in a high‑volume reception or front‑desk environment.
• Interviewing, obtaining, and evaluating information for clients seeking services.
• Ability to adapt communication styles to explain complex rules, regulations, and procedures.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to adapt quickly to shifting priorities.
• Compassionate, patient support for customers experiencing financial or emotional stress while maintaining professionalism.
• Proficiency with intermediate‑level digital tools, including Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, email systems, and web‑based applications.

• Office work at Enterprise, Oregon.
• Schedule Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm PT, with possible variation based on service needs.
• Potential interaction with individuals experiencing trauma or emotional distress.
• Situations that may require quick decision‑making to ensure personal or others' safety.
• Predominantly stationary work while operating a computer.

• Selected finalists will undergo a criminal history and background check; adverse findings may lead to disqualification.
• ODHS does not offer visa sponsorship. Within three days of hire, I‑9 verification and E‑Verify processing will occur.

• ODHS Employee Resource Group communities.
• Cost of Living Adjustments.
• Annual salary increases up to the top of the posted range.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility.

Eligible Veterans and Oregon National Guard service members (current and former) who meet position qualifications receive candidate preference.

This is a permanent, full‑time position represented by Service Employees International Union (SEIU). This recruitment may be used to fill future vacancies in the same classification.