State of Oregon
Job Description
Note: This position will receive a 2.5% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA), which is not reflected in the salary listed in this posting. The increase will be effective February 1, 2026, and will be reflected in paychecks beginning March 1, 2026.
Summary The Oregon Department of Human Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are guided by our Equity North Star and our vision for a positive RiSE organizational culture that advances equity and diversity. We encourage applications from members of historically underrepresented racial/ethnic groups, women, individuals with disabilities, veterans, LGBTQIA2S+ community members, and others to help us achieve our vision of a diverse and inclusive community. Opportunity awaits! Looking for meaningful work with real impact? Bring your customer service knowledge and experience and step into this role where your skills can shine!
Overview Initial Posting Date
01/26/2026
Application Deadline
02/02/2026
Agency
Department of Human Services
Salary Range
$3,705 - $4,833
Position Type
Employee
Position Title
Public Benefits Specialist, Entry
Responsibilities
Greet and assist Oregonians through a trauma-informed lens.
Contribute to a welcoming environment as families interact with the department; support day-to-day operations of the office, virtually through the online application portal or by telephone.
Assist Oregonians applying for programs such as medical, cash for families (TANF), Domestic Violence services, food benefits (SNAP), childcare assistance (ERDC), and long-term care services in-person, by phone, and via the online applicant portal; answer case status inquiries and provide information on how to access community resources.
Complete administrative duties including data entry, maintaining electronic filing, coordinating meeting rooms, and managing incoming mail in person and electronically.
Work within a team that collaboratively rotates tasks to support the business needs of the office.
Minimum Qualifications
Two years of experience working in a reception area or call center involving high-volume work (e.g., data entry, ensuring information on applications is complete and accurate, completing necessary documents).
OR an associate degree in a Behavioral Science, Social Science or a closely related field AND six months of experience in a busy reception area or call center with similar functions.
OR an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience relative to the class concept.
Essential Attributes
Experience clearly communicating program rules, procedures, and eligibility requirements to diverse audiences while demonstrating active listening skills.
Experience handling confidential and sensitive information with integrity and discretion.
Experience and proficiency in Microsoft Office and online search tools.
Experience managing high-volume, fast-paced front desk operations while ensuring a welcoming and organized environment.
Application Instructions Clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications and essential attributes in your application materials. Include detailed work and education history. Ensure your materials, resume, and job history are clearly outlined as this information will be used to determine your starting salary range. If selected as a final candidate and a degree is listed as a minimum qualification, be prepared to provide verification of your completed education before moving forward in the hiring process. Resume and cover letter may be uploaded in the Resume/CV field on the online application.
The use of outside resources such as Artificial Intelligence software during applicant skill assessments, examinations, and/or interviews is prohibited unless stated by the hiring agency. Unauthorized use will result in disqualification. The State of Oregon does not request or require your age or birth date during the application process.
Working Conditions
Work schedule is 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Monday – Friday. On-site in Salem, OR.
Overtime or additional hours beyond the normal schedule are rare but could be required based on business needs.
Constant contact with the public, including handling emotional or financial stress.
High-volume computer work using various programs in a fast-paced team environment.
Priorities and procedures may change daily; flexibility in applying procedures is required.
Background Checks And Requirements
If selected as a finalist, a criminal history and background check will be conducted. Adverse findings may lead to disqualification.
The Oregon Department of Human Services does not offer visa sponsorship. Within three days of hire, you will complete the US DHS I-9 form. ODHS will use E-Verify to confirm work authorization.
Benefits
ODHS Employee Resource Group communities that promote shared learning.
Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA).
Annual salary increases (until reaching the top of the listed range).
Amazing benefits package.
Possible eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Employment Preference
Veterans’ and Oregon National Guard preference applies to qualified candidates. For more information, visit Veterans Resources.
General Information
This is a permanent, full-time position represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU).
This recruitment may be used to fill future vacancies in the same classification.
Contact Information For accommodation requests under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), application questions, or job-specific questions, contact the recruiter. The recruiter for this position is Cris Jansen. Include the job requisition number REQ-189622. Email: Crista.jansen@odhs.oregon.gov. Phone (call or text): 503-826-6988.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Summary The Oregon Department of Human Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are guided by our Equity North Star and our vision for a positive RiSE organizational culture that advances equity and diversity. We encourage applications from members of historically underrepresented racial/ethnic groups, women, individuals with disabilities, veterans, LGBTQIA2S+ community members, and others to help us achieve our vision of a diverse and inclusive community. Opportunity awaits! Looking for meaningful work with real impact? Bring your customer service knowledge and experience and step into this role where your skills can shine!
Overview Initial Posting Date
01/26/2026
Application Deadline
02/02/2026
Agency
Department of Human Services
Salary Range
$3,705 - $4,833
Position Type
Employee
Position Title
Public Benefits Specialist, Entry
Responsibilities
Greet and assist Oregonians through a trauma-informed lens.
Contribute to a welcoming environment as families interact with the department; support day-to-day operations of the office, virtually through the online application portal or by telephone.
Assist Oregonians applying for programs such as medical, cash for families (TANF), Domestic Violence services, food benefits (SNAP), childcare assistance (ERDC), and long-term care services in-person, by phone, and via the online applicant portal; answer case status inquiries and provide information on how to access community resources.
Complete administrative duties including data entry, maintaining electronic filing, coordinating meeting rooms, and managing incoming mail in person and electronically.
Work within a team that collaboratively rotates tasks to support the business needs of the office.
Minimum Qualifications
Two years of experience working in a reception area or call center involving high-volume work (e.g., data entry, ensuring information on applications is complete and accurate, completing necessary documents).
OR an associate degree in a Behavioral Science, Social Science or a closely related field AND six months of experience in a busy reception area or call center with similar functions.
OR an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience relative to the class concept.
Essential Attributes
Experience clearly communicating program rules, procedures, and eligibility requirements to diverse audiences while demonstrating active listening skills.
Experience handling confidential and sensitive information with integrity and discretion.
Experience and proficiency in Microsoft Office and online search tools.
Experience managing high-volume, fast-paced front desk operations while ensuring a welcoming and organized environment.
Application Instructions Clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications and essential attributes in your application materials. Include detailed work and education history. Ensure your materials, resume, and job history are clearly outlined as this information will be used to determine your starting salary range. If selected as a final candidate and a degree is listed as a minimum qualification, be prepared to provide verification of your completed education before moving forward in the hiring process. Resume and cover letter may be uploaded in the Resume/CV field on the online application.
The use of outside resources such as Artificial Intelligence software during applicant skill assessments, examinations, and/or interviews is prohibited unless stated by the hiring agency. Unauthorized use will result in disqualification. The State of Oregon does not request or require your age or birth date during the application process.
Working Conditions
Work schedule is 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Monday – Friday. On-site in Salem, OR.
Overtime or additional hours beyond the normal schedule are rare but could be required based on business needs.
Constant contact with the public, including handling emotional or financial stress.
High-volume computer work using various programs in a fast-paced team environment.
Priorities and procedures may change daily; flexibility in applying procedures is required.
Background Checks And Requirements
If selected as a finalist, a criminal history and background check will be conducted. Adverse findings may lead to disqualification.
The Oregon Department of Human Services does not offer visa sponsorship. Within three days of hire, you will complete the US DHS I-9 form. ODHS will use E-Verify to confirm work authorization.
Benefits
ODHS Employee Resource Group communities that promote shared learning.
Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA).
Annual salary increases (until reaching the top of the listed range).
Amazing benefits package.
Possible eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Employment Preference
Veterans’ and Oregon National Guard preference applies to qualified candidates. For more information, visit Veterans Resources.
General Information
This is a permanent, full-time position represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU).
This recruitment may be used to fill future vacancies in the same classification.
Contact Information For accommodation requests under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), application questions, or job-specific questions, contact the recruiter. The recruiter for this position is Cris Jansen. Include the job requisition number REQ-189622. Email: Crista.jansen@odhs.oregon.gov. Phone (call or text): 503-826-6988.
#J-18808-Ljbffr