Public Benefits Specialist-Entry | Bilingual Required English/Russian!
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. Bilingual Required – English & Russian To qualify for this position, you must be bilingual in English & Russian. The job offer will be contingent upon passing a speaking test evaluating your proficiency in the bilingual requirements for this position. Upon passing the tests, you will receive 5% bilingual differential pay. Opportunity awaits! Join the Self‑Sufficiency Program and make a direct impact by helping Oregonians navigate essential services and build a more secure future. As a Public Benefits Specialist-Entry, you will work in our Gresham office assisting Oregonians in-person.
Requirements
- To qualify for this position, you must be bilingual in Russian and English.
- 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.
Nice To Haves
- Extensive experience providing front-line customer service in a high-volume, fast-paced reception or front desk environment.
- Proven ability to adapt communication styles to effectively convey complex rules, regulations, and procedures to diverse audiences.
- Demonstrated expertise in supporting customers facing financial or emotional hardship with professionalism, empathy, and compassion.
- Experienced in accurately entering and verifying detailed data with a strong focus on precision and quality control.
- Skilled in handling, collecting, and safeguarding confidential and sensitive information with a high degree of integrity and discretion.
- Proficient in navigating various digital platforms, such as Microsoft Word, Excel, email systems, and online search tools.
Responsibilities
- Be the first face of contact in most field offices for Oregonians and provide a welcoming environment for families to interact with the department.
- Support the infrastructure of the office by supporting the day-to-day operation.
- Assist Oregonians by providing support with the online Oregon Eligibility system, for ODHS, Oregon Health Authority (OHA), and Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) programs in person, by phone or email to resolve any questions or concerns.
- Assisting Oregonians through a trauma informed lens.
- May include financial desk responsibilities.
- Providing support for the business functions within the office.
- Learn more about our programs, as your work providing services will be through the Self-Sufficiency Program (SSP).
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
