Public Benefits Specialist - Entry

Agency: Department of Human Services Salary Range: $3,798 - $4,954 Position Type: Employee Position Title: Public Benefits 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! 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. As a Public Benefits Specialist – Entry, you will work in our Portland office on SW 5th Avenue assisting Oregonians in‑person. We are centrally located in downtown Portland, with easy access to multiple bus and light‑rail (MAX) lines. Parking may be available through a post‑tax payroll deduction at the market rate. Our address is 290 SW 5th Avenue. Portland, OR 97204. Summary of Duties Be the first face of contact in most field offices for Oregonians and provide a welcoming environment for families to interact with the department. Support the infrastructure of the office by supporting the day‑to‑day operation. Assist Oregonians by providing support in person, over the phone and by email to resolve any questions or concerns with the online Oregon Eligibility system, for ODHS, Oregon Health Authority (OHA), and Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) programs. Assist Oregonians through a trauma informed lens. May be assigned financial duties that include tracking, issuing, and accounting for all financial actions and requirements needed. Provide support for the business functions within the office. Learn more about our programs, as your work providing services will be through the Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP). Minimum Qualifications 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.) 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 An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience relative to the class concept Essential Attributes Experience delivering inclusive, empathetic customer service to diverse individuals, including those facing financial or emotional hardship. Experience communicating complex rules and procedures clearly by adapting messaging to different audiences. Demonstrated strong accuracy and attention to detail in data entry, verification, and quality control. Experience handling confidential and sensitive information with integrity, sound judgment, and professionalism. Demonstrated proficiency with digital tools such as Microsoft Word, Excel, email systems, and online research platforms, with an ongoing commitment to learning. Demonstrated effective time management and composure while working autonomously in fast‑paced, high‑pressure environments. Experience applying critical thinking and a growth mindset to problem‑solving, decision‑making, and continuous improvement. Working Conditions Will need to access public transit or a paid parking plan for this work location. Employees have the option to use a pre‑tax commuter benefit plan. Work schedule is a tradition work week, Monday‑Friday. Experience constant contact with the public, including contact with and possibly de‑escalating customers experiencing emotional and financial stress. Experience high volume of computer work, using various computer programs in a fast‑paced team environment. Priorities and procedures may change daily and requires the ability to be flexible in application of procedures. This position works in the store front office. 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. May require a valid driver’s license or other acceptable method of transportation. 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). The salary range listed is the non‑PERS monthly salary range. If you are already a participating PERS member or once you become PERS eligible, the salary range will increase by 6.95%. This recruitment may be used to fill future vacancies in the same classification. 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