Public Benefits Specialist Entry, (Public Benefits Specialist Entry) Bilingual English/Spanish Required

State of Oregon•Hillsboro, OR

6d•$3,798 - $4,954•Onsite

About The Position

The Oregon Department of Human Services is seeking a Public Benefits Specialist Entry to join their Aging & People with Disabilities (APD) team in Hillsboro, Oregon. This role is crucial in providing person-centered services and supports to Oregon's older adults, people with disabilities, and their families, helping them maintain independence, promote safety and well-being, honor choice, respect cultural preferences, and uphold dignity. The position requires bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish, with a 5% differential pay upon passing proficiency tests. The department emphasizes equity, diversity, and inclusion, encouraging applications from historically underrepresented groups.

Requirements

Bilingual in English and Spanish required.
Two (2) years of experience working in a reception area or call center either interviewing to obtain information or providing customer service, involving 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 with Microsoft Word, Excel, email systems, digital databases, answering phones and data entry.
Must be able to pass speaking and writing tests evaluating English/Spanish proficiency.
Must be able to complete the US Department of Homeland Security’s I-9 form confirming authorization to work in the United States within three days of hire.
Consistent attendance is essential.

Nice To Haves

Experience scheduling appointments for individuals and vulnerable populations in high-volume environments using person-centered, trauma-informed practices.
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 providing front desk customer service and communicating complex information, policies, and procedures clearly and professionally to diverse audiences, both verbally and in writing.
Experience learning and adapting to new tasks, workflows, and computer systems with minimal supervision, demonstrating quick uptake and consistent accuracy.
Preference will be given to candidates that are bilingual in Spanish and English.

Responsibilities

Serve as the first point of contact in the office, delivering professional, respectful, and culturally responsive customer service in 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 in agency systems.
Provide eligibility support by explaining benefits, notices, program requirements, application procedures, and available community resources, while maintaining accurate case documentation and scheduling appointments.
Apply agency policies, procedures, and regulations to make informed decisions, maintain case records, and ensure accurate and timely processing of client services.
Connect individuals and families with community resources and support services.