Multiple Positions: Public Benefits Specialist, Entry | Bilingual English/Vietnamese preferred

State of Oregon

2d•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! Empower Individuals & Families—Support, Guide, and Make an Impact! Join our team and help individuals and families navigate essential services with expertise and care. This role is key in ensuring smooth program operations, sharing vital policies, and providing specialized support to staff and management. If you are detail-oriented and passionate about making a difference, this is the opportunity for you! Join our dedicated Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) team in Clackamas as a Public Benefits Specialist, Entry, with bilingual English/Vietnamese skills preferred but not required, and multiple positions available. Bilingual English/Vietnamese preferred: You do not need to be bilingual to apply or be considered for this position. If you are bilingual, we encourage you to apply! We serve diverse communities and recognize the importance of serving people in their preferred language. Together, we can create lasting change! Summary of Duties The Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) is part of the Oregon Department of Human Services. OEP supports state staff who determine eligibility for people applying for and receiving medical, food, cash, and childcare benefits. It also manages the ONE Eligibility System used to process applications and deliver benefits to eligible individuals and families in Oregon. One in three people in Oregon receive benefits through the ONE Eligibility System. OEP administers the ONE Eligibility system in partnership with the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and the Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC). As a Public Benefits Specialist, Entry, you will: Administrative Duties/Customer Service: Create a welcoming environment for the public with friendly, respectful, professional, and courteous service. Managing incoming mail and multiple email accounts. Answer phones with appropriate phone system when covering phones. Including answering client’s questions in regard to programs and case specific information. Eligibility Support: Explain agency notices, case and benefit issuance stats as requested by clients. Explore alternative resources appropriate for any clientele in office or on phone. Maintain resource information and provide Oregonian’s directions to access services. Managing incoming mail and multiple email accounts. Answer phones with appropriate phone system when covering phones. Including answering client’s questions in regard to programs and case specific information. Eligibility Screening: Complete initial computer screening to determine prior case history or current eligibility. Screen eligibility potential for all ODHS programs and provide applicants with procedural information to apply for said programs.

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 engaging with the community, assessing resources and services, and supporting a diverse population.
Experience effectively communicating, managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment, and maintaining attention to detail.
Experience navigating evolving policies and procedures while demonstrating adaptability and a commitment to continuous learning.
Experience actively implementing equitable practices and applying diversity, equity, and inclusion principles effectively.
Experience analyzing, applying, and effectively communicating rules and regulations.
A cover letter is required. Clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications and essential attributes in your application materials.
Please include detailed work and education history.
Please make sure your application materials, including your resume and job history are clearly outlined as this information will be used to determine your starting salary range.
If you are selected as the final candidate and a degree is listed as a minimum qualification for the position, please be prepared to provide verification of your completed education before moving forward in the hiring process.
Within three days of hire, you will be required to complete the US Department of Homeland Security’s I-9 form confirming authorization to work in the United States.
A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record are required for this position.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual English/Vietnamese preferred: You do not need to be bilingual to apply or be considered for this position. If you are bilingual, we encourage you to apply! We serve diverse communities and recognize the importance of serving people in their preferred language.

Responsibilities

Create a welcoming environment for the public with friendly, respectful, professional, and courteous service.
Managing incoming mail and multiple email accounts.
Answer phones with appropriate phone system when covering phones. Including answering client’s questions in regard to programs and case specific information.
Explain agency notices, case and benefit issuance stats as requested by clients.
Explore alternative resources appropriate for any clientele in office or on phone.
Maintain resource information and provide Oregonian’s directions to access services.
Complete initial computer screening to determine prior case history or current eligibility.
Screen eligibility potential for all ODHS programs and provide applicants with procedural information to apply for said programs.