Public Benefit Specialist - Entry | Bilingual Preferred English/Spanish

State of Oregon • Klamath Falls, OR

5d • $3,798 - $4,954 • Onsite

About The Position

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) team is seeking a talented individual who is dedicated to providing quality customer service through a trauma informed lens. If you are looking for a meaningful career that serves Oregon’s most vulnerable community members, apply today to join our team! As a Public Benefits Specialist - Entry, you will work in the Klamath Falls office assisting Oregonians in-person.

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 (6) 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 that is person centered and trauma informed.
• Demonstrated experience with technical skills that include basic computer and search engine knowledge, email communication and learning new web-based platforms.
• Experience building and maintaining positive relationships with co-workers and clients through empathy and professionalism.
• Experience evaluating resources and services while serving a diverse population and/or during tense or escalated situations while maintaining excellent customer service.

Nice To Haves

• Bilingual Preferred – English & Spanish
• Bilingual language skills may qualify for a 5% bilingual differential pay increase after successfully passing the language proficiency test.

Responsibilities

• Helping individuals and families seeking services by providing specialized assistance on behalf of program staff.
• Provide in‑person assistance to Oregonians, helping guide customers The Oregon Eligibility Program (OEP) through the sharing of rules, policies, procedures, and programs.
• Be the first face of contact in the office for Oregonians and provide a welcoming environment for individuals and families to interact with the department.
• Support the infrastructure of the office by supporting the day-to-day operation.
• Explain procedures, including such things as applying for benefits, providing documentation, and requesting grievance or hearings.
• Assisting Oregonians through a trauma informed lens in person, over the phone and via email.
• Providing 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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree