Public Benefits Specialist Entry

Initial posting date: 08/06/2026 • Application deadline: 08/13/2026

About the role

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.

As a Public Benefits Specialist - Entry, you will work in our Klamath Falls office assisting Oregonians in-person. In Oregon, we believe that every individual deserves the right to live their best life, supported by person-centered services that prioritize independence, safety, and cultural respect.

Responsibilities

• Support the infrastructure of the office by supporting the day-to-day operation, including providing agency forms and directing Oregonians to appropriate services or resources.
• Provide backup support to Lakeview office when necessary.
• Assist Oregonians by providing support in person, over the phone, and by email to resolve questions or concerns with the application for Oregon Eligibility system, for ODHS, Oregon Health Authority (OHA), and Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) programs.
• Issue and receive EBT cards, help clients resolve EBT card problems, and ensure the security, control, and maintenance of the EBT process.
• Assist Oregonians through a trauma-informed lens, creating a welcoming environment for the public.
• Perform financial duties that may include tracking, issuing, and accounting for all financial actions and requirements.
• Provide support for the business functions within the office.
• Serve as the first point of contact in most field offices for Oregonians, providing a welcoming environment for families to interact with the department.

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.

Skills

• Customer Service: Experience providing front-line customer service, including serving a diverse clientele in person and on the phone.
• Information Technology: Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and other software for scheduling, data entry, documentation, and internal communication to support smooth office operations and client service delivery.
• Time Management: Experience using time management, organization, and prioritization skills to track and complete tasks.
• De-escalation: Ability to de-escalate high-stress situations using clear communication and consistent approaches to resolve conflict and stabilize clients.
• Communication: Demonstrated ability to adapt communication styles to effectively convey complex rules, regulations, and procedures to diverse audiences in written and verbal formats.
• Customer Care: Demonstrated expertise in supporting customers facing financial or emotional hardship with professionalism, empathy, and compassion.
• Confidentiality: Skilled in handling, collecting, and safeguarding confidential and sensitive information.

Working Conditions

• Work schedule is a traditional work week, Monday–Friday, 8 AM–5 PM; hours may fluctuate based on service needs.
• Occasionally, overtime compensation may be required, including evening and weekend work.
• Occasional travel is required for attending meetings, training, and other case-related activities, including travel to Lakeview to provide support. Some travel may occur in hazardous weather conditions.
• Constant contact with the public, including de-escalating customers experiencing emotional and financial stress.
• High volume of computer work using various programs in a fast-paced team environment.
• Priorities and procedures may change daily, requiring flexibility in the application of procedures.
• This position is located in the storefront office.

Background Checks and Requirements

• If selected as a finalist, a criminal history and background check will be conducted. Adverse findings may lead to disqualification.
• 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 Security’s I-9 form confirming authorization to work in the United States. ODHS will use E-Verify to confirm work authorization.
• May require a valid driver’s license or other acceptable method of transportation.

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).
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Possible eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Pay

Salary range: $3,798 – $4,954 per month (non-PERS). If you are already a participating PERS member or become PERS-eligible, the salary range will increase by 6.95%.

Schedule

Permanent, full-time position represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU).