Public Benefits Specialist, Entry (Public Benefits Specialist, Entry) Bilingual Preferred not required English/Spanish
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! 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! Summary of Duties As a Public Benefits Specialist Entry you will: 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.
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 providing front desk customer service and communicating complex information, policies, and procedures clearly and professionally to diverse audiences, both verbally and in writing.
- Experience with Microsoft Word, Excel, email systems, digital databases, answering phones and data entry.
- 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 scheduling appointments for individuals and vulnerable populations in high-volume environments using person-centered, trauma-informed practices.
- 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.
- A cover letter is required. Clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications and essential attributes in your application materials.
- Upload a resume or complete the work history profile.
- Provide verification of completed education if a degree is listed as a minimum qualification.
Nice To Haves
- Bilingual in Spanish and English
Responsibilities
- Deliver professional, respectful, and culturally responsive customer service.
- Foster an inclusive, equitable, and discrimination-free environment.
- Manage administrative operations including phone and email communications, mail processing, electronic records management, task tracking, meeting coordination, and data entry.
- 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.
- Ensure accurate and timely processing of client services.
- Connect individuals and families with community resources and support 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.
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
Associate degree
