Public Benefits Specialist-Entry
About The Position
The Oregon Department of Human Services is hiring a Public Benefits Specialist – Entry to work in its Hermiston storefront office, assisting Oregonians in person and supporting access to services through the Oregon Eligibility Partnership. The position provides front-line reception and customer service, helps people use the online Oregon Eligibility system, and supports programs administered by ODHS, the Oregon Health Authority, and the Department of Early Learning and Care. The role also helps maintain day-to-day office operations and may support financial tracking, issuing, and accounting duties. The position serves older adults and people living with disabilities. Work is performed with a trauma-informed approach and may involve people experiencing trauma or crisis. The role requires sound, quick decisions when needed to protect the safety of staff and others. Prolonged periods at a computer terminal or telephone may be required. The department encourages applications from people of diverse backgrounds. Bilingual English-Spanish skills are preferred but are not required; employees who pass the bilingual test and use those skills may receive a 5% bilingual differential. This is a permanent, full-time, represented position.
Requirements
- Meet one of the following minimum qualification paths: two years of high-volume reception-area or call-center experience involving interviewing to obtain information or providing customer service; or an associate degree in Behavioral Science, Social Science, or a closely related field plus six months of busy reception-area or call-center experience involving interviewing or customer service; or an equivalent combination of relevant education, training, and experience.
- Demonstrated experience providing quality customer service at a front desk or in a reception setting.
- Active listening skills and the ability to communicate with empathy and clarity.
- Proficiency in typing and navigating digital platforms, including Microsoft Word, Excel, email systems, and online research tools.
- Ability to manage, collect, and safeguard confidential and sensitive information with discretion.
- Ability to adapt communication styles to explain complex rules, regulations, and procedures to diverse audiences.
- May require a valid driver's license or another acceptable method of transportation.
- If selected as a finalist, must complete a criminal history and background check.
- Must be authorized to work in the United States; visa sponsorship is not offered.
Nice To Haves
- Bilingual English-Spanish proficiency; bilingual skills are preferred, and proficiency may serve as a tiebreaker among equally qualified finalists.
Responsibilities
- Serve as a welcoming first point of contact for Oregonians in the field office.
- Support day-to-day office operations and business functions.
- Assist Oregonians in person, by phone, or by email with questions and concerns.
- Help people use the online Oregon Eligibility system for ODHS, OHA, and DELC programs.
- Provide assistance using a trauma-informed approach.
- May track, issue, and account for financial actions and requirements.
Benefits
- ODHS Employee Resource Group communities that promote shared learning.
- Cost of Living Adjustments.
- Annual salary increases until the top of the listed salary range is reached.
- Amazing benefits package.
- Possible eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
- A 5% bilingual differential may be available to bilingual employees who pass the test and use their language skills.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
Associate degree
