Benefits Support Staff (Public Benefits Specialist, Entry) - Bilingual English/Spanish Preferred
About The Position
The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) team is seeking a talented individual who provides quality customer service through a trauma informed lens. This role is for someone looking for a meaningful career that serves Oregon’s most vulnerable community members. As a Benefits Support Staff, you will be the first point of contact in the office, delivering professional, respectful, and culturally responsive customer service while fostering an inclusive, equitable, and discrimination-free environment. You will manage administrative operations, provide eligibility support by explaining benefits and program requirements, and apply agency policies and procedures to ensure accurate and timely processing of client services. The goal is to provide a safety net, family stability, and a connection to careers that guide Oregonians out of poverty.
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 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.
- Experience in customer service, focused on building positive relationships and supporting all.
- Experience creating a welcoming and inclusive environment that ensures equitable services.
- Experience with trauma-informed and trauma-focused services, using a person-centered approach.
- Experience typing quickly and accurately for administrative tasks.
- Experience navigating multiple computer screens and prioritizing tasks effectively.
- Must possess a valid driver's license and acceptable driving record to use state vehicles.
Nice To Haves
- Bilingual in Spanish and English
Responsibilities
- Be the 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.
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.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
Associate degree
