Russian preferred - not required.

Department Of Human Services•Oregon City, OR

3d•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 —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! We are seeking a dedicated Public Benefit Specialist, Entry | Bilingual English/Spanish or English/Russian (preferred - not required) to join our Self Sufficiency Program (SSP). Bilingual English/Spanish or English/Russian preferred: This position may receive a 5% differential pay based on passing the required language test. 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 Oregon's Self-Sufficiency Programs (SSP) provide resources, like cash and food assistance, as well as targeted services to help people move out of poverty and toward whole well-being. Programs include food benefits (SNAP), cash assistance (TANF), services for domestic violence survivors, resources for refugees and support for youth experiencing homelessness.

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.
Keyboarding: Proficient in typing with a speed of 45 WPM.

Nice To Haves

Preference will be given to bilingual English/Spanish or English/Russian candidates.
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.

Responsibilities

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.
Conduct interviews and process paperwork to determine eligibility for expedited Food Stamps.