Public Benefits Specialist Entry, (Public Benefits Specialist Entry)

Initial Posting Date: 07/24/2026 | Application Deadline: 08/02/2026 | Agency: Department of Human Services

About the Role

The Oregon Department of Human Services is seeking a Public Benefits Specialist Entry to join our Aging & People with Disabilities (APD) team in Milwaukie, Oregon. This role is the first point of contact in the office, delivering professional, respectful, and culturally responsive customer service while fostering an inclusive and equitable environment. You will support Oregon’s older adults, people with disabilities, and their families by helping them access essential services and maintain independence.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the first point of contact by providing professional, respectful, and culturally responsive customer service to clients, coworkers, and community partners.
• Manage administrative operations, including phone and email communications, mail processing, electronic records management, task tracking, meeting coordination, and data entry in agency systems.
• Provide eligibility support by explaining benefits, notices, program requirements, application procedures, and available community resources while maintaining accurate case documentation.
• Apply agency policies, procedures, and regulations to make informed decisions, maintain case records, and ensure accurate and timely processing of client services.
• Support Oregonians in accessing safety nets, family stability, and career connections to guide them out of poverty.

Requirements

• Two (2) years of experience working in a reception area or call center, either interviewing to obtain information or providing high-volume customer service (e.g., data entry, verifying application completeness, completing documents).
• OR an associate degree in Behavioral Science, Social Science, or a closely related field and six months of experience in a busy reception area or call center.
• OR an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

Skills

• Experience providing person-centered, trauma-informed customer service to vulnerable communities.
• Demonstrated curiosity, humility, and willingness to learn from people with diverse identities, cultural histories, and lived experiences.
• Respect, empathy, and professionalism in all interactions, regardless of differences, stress, or conflict.
• Ability to answer calls promptly, triage needs efficiently, and manage multiple tasks without loss of accuracy or service quality.
• Strong attention to detail, particularly in data entry and document review.

Working Conditions

• Fast-paced, high-volume office environment with cubicles; work may be frequently interrupted, and noise levels can be high.
• Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM, with occasional compensated overtime, including evenings and weekends.
• Frequent communication with Oregon residents via phone and in-person, including individuals experiencing trauma, emotional distress, or financial hardship.
• Prolonged periods of sitting at a terminal or telephone.
• Consistent attendance and adaptability to changing policies, programs, and technical adjustments are essential.

Background Checks

• Criminal history and background check required for finalists; adverse results may lead to disqualification.
• No visa sponsorship offered; must complete the US Department of Homeland Security’s I-9 form within three days of hire (E-Verify used).
• Driving record review may be conducted if applicable; a record not meeting agency standards will not disqualify candidates unless driving is an essential function.

Benefits

• Employee Resource Groups promoting shared learning and community.
• Cost-of-living adjustments and annual salary increases (until reaching the top of the salary range).
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Possible eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Pay

Salary Range: $3,798 – $4,954 per month.

Additional Information

• This is a permanent, full-time position represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU).
• Veterans and Oregon National Guard servicemembers may receive employment preference.
• This recruitment may be used to fill future vacancies in the same classification.