Support Staff (Public Benefit Specialist, Entry)

Initial Posting Date: 08/19/2026 Application Deadline: 08/27/2026 Agency: Department of Human Services Salary Range: $3,798 - $4,954 Position Type: Employee Position Title Support Staff (Public Benefit Specialist, Entry) 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. Opportunity awaits! Join our team as a Support Staff (Public Benefit Specialist, Entry), where you'll play a pivotal role in providing exceptional office support and creating a welcoming environment for our clients. Summary of Duties Provide front desk assistance, 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 submitted in person or electronically for completeness and accuracy. Document all interactions and records through the ONE, TRACS, and OACCESS 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. 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 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; An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience relative to the class concept. Essential Attributes Experience accurately handling large volumes of work in fast-paced environments with tight deadlines. Experience explaining complex information in a clear and understandable way. Experience using computer systems to manage and process information. Experience efficiently prioritizing tasks, adjusting to frequent changes in workflow, and shifting between multiple duties as needed. Working Conditions Duties for this role will be performed in the local office. The work schedule is Monday to Friday, 8:15 am to 5:15 pm PT, with possible fluctuations based on service needs. Occasional local travel is needed to support fleet maintenance, and other business actives as needed. 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 encounter situations requiring quick decision‑making to ensure your safety or the safety of others. Background Checks and Requirements 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. The Oregon Department of Human Services does not offer visa sponsorship. 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. Artificial Intelligence Usage Artificial Intelligence (AI) Usage: 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. 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’ and Oregon National Guard preference: Eligible Veterans and Oregon National Guard servicemembers (current and former) who meet the qualifications of the position will be awarded candidate preference. For more information, please visit Veterans Resources. 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. About Oregon State Government Oregon state government is a large organization by nearly any standard. With over 40,000 employees working all over the state, in small communities and large, we are proving that government can be innovative. We work as a team, challenging ourselves to be better, faster and more efficient with taxpayer dollars. After all, when every day we are responsible for caring for the needs of a diverse population and thriving business community, we simply must have the best and brightest workforce. If you take responsibility for your actions, are passionate about helping others succeed, and have a reputation for excellence and honesty, why not make Oregon state government your next career move? Joining our team means you open the door to many possibilities. From entry level to executive, outdoor work to policy setting, we have a role for nearly every calling, expertise and background. If you’re looking at us from across the country (or beyond!), know that Oregon is one of the most beautiful places on earth. Made up of seven diverse regions, Oregon has the ocean, mountains, valleys, high desert, cities, small towns, and almost everything in between. Oregon “flies with her own wings.” #J-18808-Ljbffr State of Oregon