Public Benefits Specialist, Entry (Public Benefits Specialist, Entry)

Initial posting: 08/17/2026 • Application deadline: 08/24/2026 • Agency: Department of Human Services • Salary range: $3,798 – $4,954/month

About the role

The Oregon Department of Human Services is seeking an entry-level Public Benefits Specialist to deliver professional, respectful, and culturally responsive customer service while fostering an inclusive, equitable, and discrimination-free environment for clients, coworkers, and community partners.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the first point of contact in the office, providing 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.
• Connect individuals and families with community resources and support services.

Requirements

• Two years of experience working in a reception area or call center either interviewing to obtain information or providing customer service in a high-volume environment (e.g., data entry, ensuring application completeness, completing necessary 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 scheduling appointments for individuals and vulnerable populations in high-volume environments using person-centered, trauma-informed practices.
• Experience applying crisis intervention and conflict resolution techniques to de-escalate emotionally charged situations.
• Experience providing front-desk customer service and communicating complex information, policies, and procedures clearly and professionally to diverse audiences, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to learn and adapt to new tasks, workflows, and computer systems with minimal supervision, demonstrating quick uptake and consistent accuracy.
• Experience gathering and assessing information from customers to identify needs and determine appropriate services or resources.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, email systems, digital databases, answering phones, and data entry.

Working Conditions

• Schedule: Monday – Friday, 8 am – 5 pm in Oregon City, OR.
• Fast-paced, high-volume office environment with cubicles; work may be frequently interrupted, and noise levels can be high.
• Occasional compensated overtime may be required or voluntary, including evenings and weekends.
• Frequent communication with Oregon residents over the 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 flexibility/adaptability are essential due to regular policy, program, and technical adjustments.

Background Checks

• If selected as a finalist, a criminal history and background check will be conducted. Adverse findings may lead to disqualification.
• No visa sponsorship is offered.
• Within three days of hire, you must complete the US Department of Homeland Security’s I-9 form confirming authorization to work in the United States (E-Verify will be used).
• A driving record review may be required as part of the pre-employment background check if driving is relevant to the role.

Benefits

• ODHS Employee Resource Group communities that promote shared learning.
• 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.