Public Benefits Specialist, Entry

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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 ourEquity North Starand our vision for a positiveRiSE organizational culturethat 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 & FamiliesSupport 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 to join our Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) team in Tigard.

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 provide:

Administrative Duties/Customer Service:

• Work in office reception area and create a welcoming environment for the public with friendly respectful professional and courteous service.

• Respond to in-person phone email and mail client inquiries regarding ODHS programs and services.

• Receive and review incoming applications and documents mail faxes and emails.

Program Support:

• Provide basic information on ODHS programs and how to apply for them.

• Gather and accurately enter/update client/case information into applicable State of Oregon databases.

• Schedule program- and case-related appointments with eligibility workers and other ODHS staff.

• Maintain community resource information and provide Oregonians information on how to access additional services.

Eligibility Support:

• Complete initial case screening to determine prior and/or current case history and enter new application information.

• Perform basic case updates such as changes in contact information health care provider preference and demographics as well as notating case information into databases.

• Explain agency notices case status information and benefit issuances as requested by clients.

• Activate and issue/mail out EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) cards to qualifying clients.

Minimum Qualifications

• Two years of experienceworking in a reception area or call centereither 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 centereither interviewing to obtain information or providing customer service; OR

• An equivalent combination of education training and experience relative to the class concept.

Essential Attributes

We are looking for candidates with:

• 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.

Attention all candidates!

• Clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications and essential attributes in your application materials. Your application materials will determine if you are selected to move forward in the selection process. 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. Note: Your resume and cover letter may be uploaded in the Resume/CV field on the online application.

• The State of Oregon does not request or require your age date of birth attendance or graduation dates from an educational institution during the application process.

• The use of outside resources such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) software during applicant skill assessments examinations and/or interviews is prohibited unless otherwise stated by the hiring agency. Unauthorized use of outside resources during the hiring process will result in disqualification.

• Important: Please monitor both your email and Workday account for updates regarding this recruitment. You may be asked to submit additional information after initial application.

• The job posting closes at 11:59 PM (PDT/PST) on the close date. Immediately after you submit your application be sure to respond to the two questionnaires relating to public records requests and veterans preference. These questions are necessary to complete the application process.

Working Conditions

• Work Locations: In-person office environment.

• Work Environment: Direct public interaction including engagement with customers in high-pressure situations.

• Cubicle-based and front desk workspace with frequent interruptions and high noise levels.

• Fast-paced setting with constantly evolving policies and procedures.

• Repetitive motions prolonged sitting and daily use of computers and technology.

• High-volume computer work and keyboarding in a dynamic team environment.

• Hours: MondayFriday 8 AM5 PM; occasional evening and weekend overtime required.

• Travel: Occasional travel for meetings trainings and other work-related activities.

• This role involves handling sensitive topics related to trauma abuse and crises requiring a trauma-informed approach that is essential to ensure a safe environment.

• You may interact with individuals who have experienced trauma and may have difficulty managing their emotions.

• Be prepared for stressful situations that require quick decision-making to ensure safety for yourself and others.

Background Checks and Requirements

• If selected as a finalist we will conduct a criminal history and background check. Adverse criminal history or background check may lead to disqualification. Additional background check information.

• The Oregon Department of Human Services does not offer visa sponsorship. Within three days of hire you will be required to complete the US Department of Homeland Securitys I-9 form confirming authorization to work in the United States. ODHS will use E-Verify to confirm that you are authorized to work in the United States.

• A valid drivers license and acceptable driving record are required for this position.

Benefits

• 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.

Employment Preference

Veterans and Oregon National Guard preference:

• Eligible Veterans and Oregon National Guard servicemembers (current and former) who meet the qualifications of the position will be awarded candidate preference. For more information please visit Veterans Resources.

• How to submit your Veteran documents for preference. Please do not attach your Veterans preference documentation in the Resume/CV field of your application.

General Information

• This is a permanent full-time position and is represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU).

• This recruitment may be used to fill future vacancies in the same classification.

Contact Information

We invite you to contact the recruiter for accommodation requests under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) application questions or job-specific questions.

• The recruiter for this position is Nadja Rue. If you contact the recruiter please include the job requisition number: REQ-192555.