Public Benefits Specialists- Entry | Bilingual Required English/Spanish

State of Oregon • Portland, OR

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Oregon Department of Human Services is seeking a Public Benefits Specialist - Entry to work in their Southeast Portland office on Malden Street. This role is crucial in empowering Oregonians to overcome poverty by facilitating access to vital services through the Self-Sufficiency Program. The position involves assisting individuals and families in person, via phone, and email, guiding them through the application process for ODHS, Oregon Health Authority (OHA), and Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) programs. The role requires a trauma-informed approach and may involve financial desk responsibilities. The department emphasizes equity, diversity, and a positive organizational culture, encouraging applications from historically underrepresented groups.

Requirements

• Must be bilingual in Spanish 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.
• Extensive experience providing front-line customer service in a high-volume reception or front desk environment.
• Proven ability to adapt communication styles to effectively convey complex rules, regulations, and procedures into plan language 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.
• 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.
• Must pass a speaking test evaluating proficiency in English and Spanish.
• Must complete the US Department of Homeland Security’s I-9 form confirming authorization to work in the United States within three days of hire.
• ODHS will use E-Verify to confirm that you are authorized to work in the United States.

Nice To Haves

• A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record may be required for this position.

Responsibilities

• Be the first face of contact in most field offices for Oregonians and provide a welcoming environment for individuals and families to interact with the department.
• Support the infrastructure of the office by supporting the day-to-day operation.
• Provide in‑person, phone, and email assistance to Oregonians, helping resolve questions and guiding them through the Oregon Eligibility application process for ODHS, Oregon Health Authority (OHA), and Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) programs.
• Assist Oregonians through a trauma informed lens.
• Duties may include financial desk responsibilities.
• Provide support for the business functions within the office.
• Work providing services through the Self-Sufficiency Program (SSP).

Benefits

• 5% bilingual differential pay upon passing speaking test.
• 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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree