Public Benefits Specialist, Entry. Bilingual English/Spanish Preferred

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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.

Note: This position is located in Gold Beach on the southwest Oregon Coast.

Bilingual English/Spanish Preferred

We request you to be bilingual in English/Spanish Preferred but not required. If chosen, you would be considered by passing test(s) evaluating your proficiency in the bilingual preference for this position. Upon passing the test(s), you will receive 5% bilingual differential pay.

Opportunity awaits! Step into a role where your efforts directly empower Oregonians to rise above poverty—become a key player in the Oregon Eligibility Partnership and facilitate access to vital services that foster equity and well-being.

Summary of Duties

As a Support Staff / Public Benefits Specialist Entry you will:

• Be the first face of contact in most offices for customers either entering the physical office or virtually through the online application portal or telephone communication.

• Contribute to the welcoming environment as families interact with the department.

• Greet and assist Oregonians through a trauma-informed lens.

• Work with Oregonians who are applying for programs such as medical, cash for families (TANF), Domestic Violence services, food benefits (SNAP), childcare assistance (ERDC), and long-term care services in-person, by phone and via our online applicant portal to answer case status and other inquiries; provide information on how to access community resources.

• Work within a team that collaboratively rotates tasks to support the business needs of the office.

Learn more about our programs, as your work providing services will be through the Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP).

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 a 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:

• Customer Service: Demonstrated professional demeanor that delivers quality customer service daily by telephone, in writing or in person.

• Computer Skills: Experience in usage and functionality of computers, web browsers, databases, and programs such as Microsoft along with other general office equipment such as phone systems, copiers, scanners, fax, etc. Experience using multiple systems in tandem for research and tracking.

• Communication: Experience conveying technical concepts, including complex rules, regulations, and procedures, to customers with diverse learning styles and varying levels of familiarity with the subject. Experience interpreting non-verbal cues, simplifying information into understandable components, utilizing relatable examples to illustrate intricate details, and confirming comprehension through active listening techniques.

• Collaborative Team Member: Experience elevating all team member voices with inclusion. Experience building relationships with team members.

• Accuracy and Attention to Detail: Experience reviewing and verifying information for the purpose of completing accurate data entry. Experience developing a comprehensive understanding of assignment to determine appropriate outcomes and follow up actions needed.

• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Demonstrated experience committing to continued learning and contributing to an inclusive and anti-racist workplace. Demonstrated experience assisting individuals with diverse personal experiences and cultural backgrounds.

Attention all candidates! Clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications and essential attributes in your application materials. Your application materials will determine if you are selected to move forward in the selection process. Please include detailed work and education history.

• Please make sure your application materials, resume and job history, are clearly outlined as this information will be used to determine your starting salary range. If you are selected as the final candidate and a degree is listed as a minimum qualification for the position, please be prepared to provide verification of your completed education before moving forward in the hiring process. Note: Your resume and cover letter may be uploaded in the Resume/CV field on the online application.

• The use of outside resources such as Artificial Intelligence software during applicant skill assessments, examinations, and/or interviews is prohibited unless otherwise stated by the hiring agency. Unauthorized use of outside resources during the hiring process will result in disqualification.

• The State of Oregon does not request or require your age, date of birth, attendance or graduation dates from an educational institution during the application process.

Working Conditions

• This position works in the store front office and is not a remote position.

• The work schedule is Monday – Friday, 8:00am - 5:00pm

• Contact with the public, including contact with Oregonians experiencing emotional and financial stress.

• Serve a diverse range of customers with compassion and professionalism through a trauma informed lens.

• May require sitting at a computer or telephone for prolonged periods of the workday.

Background Checks and Requirements

• If selected as a finalist, we will conduct a criminal history and background check. Adverse criminal history or background check may lead to disqualification. Additional background check information.

• The Oregon Department of Human Services does not offer visa sponsorship. Within three days of hire, you will be required to complete the US Department of Homeland Security’s I-9 form confirming authorization to work in the United States. ODHS will use E-Verify to confirm that you are authorized to work in the United States.

Benefits

• ODHS Employee Resource Group communities that promote shared learning.

• Cost of Living Adjustments.

• Annual salary increases (until you reach the top of the listed salary range).

• Amazing benefits package.

• Possible eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Employment Preference

Veterans’ preference:

• Veterans’ preference information.

• How to submit your Veteran documents for preference. Please do not attach your Veterans’ preference documentation in the Resume/CV field of your application.

• Oregon National Guard. Form DA5016, DD214 or NGB22 Required. Eligible starting January 2026. 5% awarded.

Bilingual English/Spanish Preferred

We request you to be bilingual in English/Spanish Preferred but not required. If chosen, you would be considered by passing test(s) evaluating your proficiency in the bilingual preference for this position. Upon passing the test(s), you will receive 5% bilingual differential pay.

General Information

• This is a permanent, full-time position and is represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU).

• This recruitment may be used to fill future vacancies in the same classification.

Contact Information

We invite you to contact the recruiter for accommodation requests under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), application questions or job-specific questions.

• The recruiter for this position is Brent Lawrence. If you contact the recruiter, please include the job requisition number.

• Email: Brent.Lawrence@odhs.oregon.gov