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 bilingual (English/Pashto) Public Benefits Specialist, Entry. 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

• Bilingual proficiency in English and Pashto (required). The job offer is contingent upon passing speaking and writing tests; 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 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 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 & Attributes

• Attention to detail, particularly with data entry and reviewing documents.
• Ability to adapt communication style to explain complex information (rules, procedures) verbally and in writing to diverse audiences.
• Experience providing person-centered, trauma-informed customer service to vulnerable communities.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, email systems, digital databases, answering phones, and data entry.
• Experience evaluating resources and recommending services for diverse populations.

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, in Beaverton, OR. Occasionally, 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.
• May require prolonged sitting at a terminal or telephone.
• Consistent attendance and flexibility/adaptability are essential due to regular policy, program, and technical adjustments.

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; ODHS uses E-Verify.
• Driving record review may be conducted as part of the pre-employment background check (not disqualifying if driving is not an essential function).

Benefits

• ODHS Employee Resource Group communities for 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.

Pay

$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 preference eligible.
• This recruitment may be used to fill future vacancies in the same classification.