Public Records Officer, Operations & Policy Analyst 3

Initial posting date: 08/03/2026   Application deadline: 08/10/2026

About the role

The Public Records Unit (PRU), part of the Chief Operations Office at the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), is seeking a skilled Public Records Officer to analyze complex record requests, make informed release decisions, and ensure compliance with state and federal Public Records Law. In this role, you will explain outcomes to requestors and partners, evaluate operational processes, and recommend improvements that reduce risk and strengthen agency practices. This position offers a high level of autonomy, significant decision-making responsibility, and the chance to support ODHS programs that serve people and communities across Oregon.

Responsibilities

• Records Request Analysis and Release
  • Analyze complex record requests and determine what information can be released; apply redactions and cite appropriate laws and rules.
  • Explain statutory discretion and release decisions to requestors, ODHS staff, Department of Justice (DOJ) Assistant Attorney Generals (AAGs), and other partners.
  • Prepare records for clients, attorneys, media, and the public by redacting or removing non-releasable information.
  • Review large volumes of records to estimate the effort required for redaction and determine applicable fees.
• Policy Analysis and Legislative Coordination
  • Interpret and explain agency policies, rules, and public records laws to staff, stakeholders, legislators, media, and the public.
  • Serve as a subject matter expert on public records processes and provide policy consultation to ODHS programs and offices.
  • Work with DOJ AAGs on public records petitions, explaining agency decisions and applying legal guidance within short timelines.
  • Collaborate with ODHS Legal to support accountability, protect public interests, and reduce litigation risks.
  • Coordinate with partner agencies on requests involving overlapping responsibilities.
  • Prepare accurate cover letters that cite relevant statutes, rules, and laws.
  • Evaluate statutes and legislative intent; research and prepare background information for executive management.
  • Recommend agency positions on legislative proposals and suggest policy or legislative changes.
  • Assess policy proposals and advise on likely operational, political, and public impacts.
  • Draft or revise policy to reduce operational risk.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's Degree in Business or Public Administration, Behavioral or Social Sciences, Finance, Political Science, or any degree demonstrating the capacity for the knowledge and skills; and four years of professional-level evaluative, analytical, and planning work, OR
• Any combination of experience and education equivalent to seven years of experience that typically supports the knowledge and skills for the classification.

Skills

• Experience in conducting complex analysis, making sound decisions, and solving challenging issues while balancing legal requirements and business needs.
• Experience applying laws, rules, policies, and procedures with strong understanding and skill.
• Experience maintaining attention to detail along with strong organizational and time-management skills in a fast-paced, high-productivity environment.
• Experience communicating orally and in writing with a variety of people, answering questions, and explaining information and decisions.
• Experience working with highly confidential records.
• Knowledge of ODHS programs and systems, or other related Human Services experience, as well as knowledge of applicable statutes, rules, policies, and procedures for record requests and release.

Working Conditions

• Fast-paced office environment with a high-volume workload and short response timeframes.
• Requires a valid driver’s license or other acceptable method of transportation.
• Handles sensitive and confidential information, including client-attorney privileged information.
• Maintains collaborative relationships with ODHS local and central office staff, OHA staff, Department of Justice, media, attorneys, legislative offices, and statewide stakeholders.
• High level of autonomy and decision-making responsibility, including decisions on fees, timelines, and record release definitions.
• Hybrid or remote work may be considered, with occasional onsite requirements in Salem for training or operational needs.

Background Checks

If selected as a finalist, a criminal history and background check will be conducted. Adverse findings may lead to disqualification. This position does not offer visa sponsorship. Within three days of hire, you must complete the US Department of Homeland Security’s I-9 form confirming work authorization. ODHS uses E-Verify to confirm work eligibility in the United States.

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

$6,276 - $9,644 per month

Schedule

Permanent, full-time position represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU).