Public Benefits Specialist Entry

State of Oregon

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Note: This position will receive a 2.5% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA), which is not reflected in the salary listed in this posting. The increase will be effective February 1, 2026, and will be reflected in paychecks beginning March 1, 2026. 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 Self-Sufficiency Program and facilitate access to vital services that foster equity and well-being. As a Public Benefits Specialist - Entry, you will work in our Portland office on SW 5th Avenue assisting Oregonians in-person. We are centrally located in downtown Portland, with easy access to multiple bus and light-rail (MAX) lines. Parking may be available through a post-tax payroll deduction at the market rate. Our address is 290 SW 5th Avenue. Portland, OR 97204. Summary of Duties As a Public Benefits Specialist - Entry, you will: 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 in person, over the phone and by email to resolve any questions or concerns with the online Oregon Eligibility system, for ODHS, Oregon Health Authority (OHA), and Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) programs. Assisting Oregonians through a trauma informed lens. Financial duties that include tracking, issuing, and accounting for all financial actions and requirements needed. 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).

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 serving a diverse clientele.
Demonstrated ability to adapt communication styles to effectively convey complex rules, regulations, and procedures to diverse audiences.
Skilled in handling, collecting, and safeguarding confidential and sensitive information.
Proficient in navigating various digital platforms, such as Microsoft Word, Excel, email systems, and online search tools.
Experienced in accurately entering and verifying detailed data with a strong focus on precision and quality control.
Demonstrated expertise in supporting customers facing financial or emotional hardship with professionalism, empathy, and compassion.

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 in person, over the phone and by email to resolve any questions or concerns with the online Oregon Eligibility system, for ODHS, Oregon Health Authority (OHA), and Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) programs.
Assisting Oregonians through a trauma informed lens.
Financial duties that include tracking, issuing, and accounting for all financial actions and requirements needed.
Providing support for the business functions within the office.