Public Benefits Specialist Entry (Public Benefits Specialist, Entry) English/Pashto Required

Initial posting: July 23, 2026 • Applications due by July 30, 2026

About the role

The Oregon Department of Human Services seeks a Public Benefits Specialist (Entry) who is bilingual in English and Pashto. The position is the first point of contact in the office, delivering professional, respectful, and culturally responsive customer service while fostering an inclusive, equitable, and discrimination-free environment for clients, coworkers, and community partners.

Responsibilities

• Manage administrative operations: 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.
• Serve as a safety net, promote family stability, and connect Oregonians to careers that guide them out of poverty.

Requirements

To qualify, you must be bilingual in English and Pashto. The job offer is contingent upon passing speaking and writing tests evaluating your proficiency. Upon passing, you will receive a 5% bilingual differential pay.

• Two years of experience working in a reception area or call center either interviewing to obtain information or providing customer service, involving a high volume of work (e.g., data entry, ensuring information on applications is complete and accurate, completing necessary documents); or
• An associate degree in 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 position.

Skills

• Attention to detail, particularly with data entry and reviewing documents.
• Adapting communication style to explain complex information such as rules or procedures verbally and in writing to diverse audiences.
• Providing customer service to vulnerable communities that is person-centered and trauma-informed.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, email systems, digital databases, answering phones, and data entry.
• Evaluating resources and recommending services for diverse populations.

Working Conditions

• Fast-paced, high-volume office environment with cubicles; work is often interrupted and noise levels can be high.
• Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM in Beaverton, OR. Occasionally, compensated overtime may be required or voluntary, including evening and weekend work.
• Frequent communication with Oregon residents over the phone and in-person, including individuals experiencing trauma, emotional, or financial distress.
• May require sitting at a terminal or telephone for prolonged periods.
• Consistent attendance and flexibility/adaptability are essential due to a changing environment with 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. ODHS uses E-Verify.
• Applicants may be asked to complete a driving record review as part of the pre-employment background check. A driving record that does not meet agency standards will not disqualify an applicant when driving is not an essential function of the 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).
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Possible eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Pay

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

Schedule

Full-time, permanent position. This recruitment may be used to fill future vacancies in the same classification. Represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU).