Benefits Support Staff ( Public Benefits Specialist Entry) Bilingual English/Spanish preferred not required

State of Oregon•Hillsboro, OR

7d•$3,798 - $4,954•Onsite

About The Position

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. Are you fluent in English and Spanish? Our diverse communities benefit from bilingual support. While not a requirement, preference will be given to candidates who possess this valuable skill. Opportunity awaits! Are you looking to make a difference in people's lives? Do you want to learn and grow professionally while experiencing meaningful work? If so, we’d love to hear from you!

Requirements

Two (2) 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; OR
An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience relative to the class concept.
Experience scheduling appointments for individuals and vulnerable populations in high-volume environments using person-centered, trauma-informed practices.
Experienced in applying crisis intervention and conflict resolution techniques to de-escalate emotionally charged situations, ensuring the safety and well-being of clients, families, and staff while maintaining a calm and professional demeanor.
Experience providing front desk customer service and communicating complex information, policies, and procedures clearly and professionally to diverse audiences, both verbally and in writing.
Experience learning and adapting to new tasks, workflows, and computer systems with minimal supervision, demonstrating quick uptake and consistent accuracy.
Experience gathering and assessing information from customers to identify needs and determine appropriate services or resources.
Experience with Microsoft Word, Excel, email systems, digital databases, answering phones and data entry.
Must complete the US Department of Homeland Security’s I-9 form confirming authorization to work in the United States within three days of hire.
Must be able to pass a criminal history and background check.
Must be able to pass a driving record review if required.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual in Spanish and English

Responsibilities

Be this first face of contact in the office by delivering professional, respectful, and culturally responsive customer service while fostering an inclusive, equitable, and discrimination-free environment for clients, coworkers, and community partners.
Manage administrative operations including phone and email communications, mail processing, electronic records management, task tracking, meeting coordination, and data entry in agency systems.
Provide eligibility support by explaining benefits, notices, program requirements, application procedures, and available community resources, while maintaining accurate case documentation.
Apply agency policies, procedures, and regulations to make informed decisions, maintain case records, and ensure accurate and timely processing of client services.
Connects individuals and families with community resources and support services.