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Jobs · Human Resources · Oregon

Public Benefits Specialist - Entry | Bilingual Preferred English/Spanish

Oregon Department of Human Services · Portland, OR · 3 wk ago
Human ResourcesFull-time

Initial posting: 08/05/2026 • Application deadline: 08/12/2026 • Agency: Department of Human Services

About the role

Step into a role where your efforts directly empower Oregonians to rise above poverty. As a key player in the Oregon Eligibility Partnership, you will facilitate access to vital services that foster equity and well-being. This position is located in the Northwest Portland office on NE Killingsworth Street, assisting Oregonians in-person.

Responsibilities

  • Be the first face of contact in most field offices for Oregonians and provide a welcoming environment for families to interact with the department.
  • Support the infrastructure of the office by supporting the day-to-day operation.
  • Assist Oregonians by providing support with the online Oregon Eligibility system for ODHS, Oregon Health Authority (OHA), and Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) programs in person, by phone, or email to resolve any questions or concerns.
  • Assist Oregonians through a trauma-informed lens.
  • May be assigned financial duties including tracking, issuing, and accounting for all financial actions and requirements needed.
  • Provide support for the business functions within the office.

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

  • Experience providing front-line customer service serving a diverse clientele.
  • Demonstrated ability to adapt communication styles to effectively convey complex rules, regulations, and procedures to diverse audiences.
  • 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.
  • Experienced in accurately entering and verifying detailed data with a strong focus on precision and quality control.
  • Demonstrated expertise in supporting customers facing financial or emotional hardship with professionalism, empathy, and compassion.

In the event of a tie between candidates, preference will be given to those who are bilingual in Spanish and English. Bilingual candidates who pass the language test will receive a 5% bilingual differential pay.

Working Conditions

  • Traditional work week, Monday–Friday.
  • Constant contact with the public, including contact with and possibly de-escalating customers experiencing emotional and financial stress.
  • High volume of computer work, using various computer programs in a fast-paced team environment.
  • Priorities and procedures may change daily and require the ability to be flexible in application of procedures.
  • Position is in the store-front office.

Background Checks and Requirements

  • If selected as a finalist, a criminal history and background check will be conducted. Adverse results 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.
  • May require a valid driver’s license or other acceptable method of transportation.

Pay

Monthly salary range: $3,798 – $4,954. If you are already a participating PERS member or once you become PERS eligible, the salary range will increase by 6.95%.

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.

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

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