Public Benefits Specialist - Entry
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. 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. We are currently seeking to fill multiple openings! As a Public Benefits Specialist - Entry, you will work in our East Branch - Portland office on NE Glisan Street assisting Oregonians in-person.
Requirements
- 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.); 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 providing front-line customer service in a high-volume reception or front desk environment.
- Experience interviewing, obtaining, and evaluating information for customers to access services.
- Experience adapting communication styles to effectively convey complex rules, regulations and procedures.
- Experience maintaining organization, while swiftly adapting to shifting priorities and new responsibilities.
- Experience providing compassionate, patient support to customers experiencing financial or emotional stress while maintaining professionalism
Responsibilities
- Serve as the primary point of contact in most field offices, creating a welcoming and supportive environment for Oregonians and their families.
- Support daily office operations by contributing to essential business functions, ensuring an efficient workflow and maintaining strong internal processes.
- Assist Oregonians in person, by phone, and via email with questions or concerns related to the Oregon Eligibility system for ODHS, the Oregon Health Authority (OHA), and the Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC).
- Provide services using a trauma‑informed approach to ensure respectful and compassionate interactions.
- Perform financial responsibilities, including tracking, issuing, and reconciling all required financial actions.
- Learn more about our programs, as your work providing services will be through the Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP).
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
