Public Benefits Specialist-Entry

State of Oregon•Pendleton, OR

13d•Onsite

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! In Oregon, we believe that every individual deserves the right to live their best life, supported by person-centered services that prioritize independence, safety, and cultural respect—join us in making this vision a reality, apply today! As a Public Benefits Specialist-Entry, you will work in the Pendleton office on Southgate Place 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 working independently to complete tasks and projects with minimal oversight.
Experience managing tasks from multiple sources, adjusting priorities as needs shift.
Proficient experience with digital tools, such as Microsoft Word, Excel, email systems, and online search tools.
Experience building and maintaining relationships with community partners and private business owners to support shared goals.
Experience providing compassionate, patient support to customers experiencing financial or emotional stress while maintaining professionalism.

Responsibilities

Serve as the primary point of contact in field offices, creating a welcoming and trauma‑informed environment for Oregonians seeking services.
Support daily office operations, including business functions, financial tasks, and general administrative needs.
Assist Oregonians in person, by phone, and by email with questions related to ODHS, OHA, and DELC programs, including navigation of the ONE eligibility system.
Gather and enter demographic and program information into the ONE system for programs such as SNAP, OHP, TANF, ERDC, and related benefits.
Review forms and documentation for completeness and accuracy, resolve discrepancies, and troubleshoot issues such as benefit concerns or scheduling needs.
Issue and document EBT cards, process voter registration forms, and provide computer‑generated medical IDs when needed.
Maintain confidential information in accordance with policy and safeguard sensitive data.
Process Home Care Worker applications, maintain related records, assist with orientation scheduling, and help resolve payment issues.
Manage incoming and outgoing mail, including sorting, date‑stamping, routing, and applying postage.
Provide resource and referral information to individuals seeking services and direct them to appropriate staff or community partners.
Print and distribute reports and other office materials as needed.
Learn more about our programs, as your work providing services will be through the Aging & People with Disabilities Programs (APD).