Benefits Support Staff (Public Benefits Specialist, Entry) Preferred not required English/Spanish
About The Position
The Oregon Department of Human Services is seeking a Benefits Support Staff to join their Aging & People with Disabilities (APD) team in Canby, Oregon. This role focuses on providing person-centered services and supports to help individuals maintain independence, promote safety and well-being, honor choice, respect cultural preferences, and uphold dignity. The services provided help people access the supports they need to live their best lives in the communities they choose and at every stage of life. The department is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion, encouraging applications from members of historically underrepresented groups.
Requirements
- Two (2) years of experience working in a reception area or call center either interviewing to obtain information or providing customer service, with 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 conducting work that requires attention to detail, particularly with data entry and reviewing documents.
- Experience adapting communication style to explain complex information such as rules or procedures verbally and in writing to diverse audiences.
- Experience providing customer service to vulnerable communities that is person centered and trauma informed.
- Experience with Microsoft Word, Excel, email systems, digital databases, answering phones and data entry.
- Experience evaluating resources and recommending services for diverse populations.
- 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 pass a criminal history and background check.
Nice To Haves
- Fluent in English and Spanish.
Responsibilities
- Deliver professional, respectful, and culturally responsive customer service as the first point of contact in the office.
- Foster 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.
- Maintain 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.
- Provide a safety net, family stability, and a connection to careers that guide Oregonians out of poverty.
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
