Branch Operations Support (Public Benefits Specialist, Entry) | Bilingual Englis
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Estacada, Oregon, United States, 97023
Initial Posting Date: 02/06/2026
Application Deadline: 02/22/2026
Agency: Department of Human Services
Salary Range: $3,798 - $4,954
Position Type: Employee
Position Title: Branch Operations Support (Public Benefits Specialist, Entry) | Bilingual English/Spanish required
Overview
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 historically underrepresented racial/ethnic groups, women, individuals with disabilities, veterans, LGBTQIA2S+ community members, and others to help us achieve a diverse and inclusive community. Opportunity awaits! Empower Individuals & Families — Support, Guide, and Make an Impact. This role helps individuals and families navigate essential services with expertise and care. It is key in ensuring smooth program operations, sharing vital policies, and providing specialized support to staff and management. We are seeking a dedicated Public Benefit Specialist, Entry | Bilingual English/Spanish required to join our Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) team in Estacada. Bilingual English/Spanish required: the job involves duties in both English and Spanish. The job offer will be contingent upon passing tests evaluating bilingual proficiency and may include a 5% differential pay based on language test results. Summary of Duties
The Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) is part of the Oregon Department of Human Services. OEP supports state staff who determine eligibility for medical, food, cash, and childcare benefits and manages the ONE Eligibility System used to process applications and deliver benefits. One in three people in Oregon receive benefits through the ONE Eligibility System. OEP administers the ONE Eligibility system in partnership with the Oregon Health Authority and the Department of Early Learning and Care. As a Public Benefits Specialist, Entry you will provide: Responsibilities
Administrative Duties/Customer Service: Work in office reception area and create a welcoming environment for the public with friendly, respectful, professional, and courteous service.
Respond to in-person, phone, email, and mail client inquiries regarding ODHS programs and services.
Receive and review incoming applications and documents, mail, faxes and emails.
Program Support: Provide basic information on ODHS programs and how to apply for them.
Gather and accurately enter/update client/case information into applicable State of Oregon databases.
Schedule program- and case-related appointments with eligibility workers and other ODHS staff.
Maintain community resource information and provide Oregonians information on how to access additional services.
Eligibility Support: Complete initial case screening to determine prior and/or current case history and enter new application information.
Perform basic case updates such as changes in contact information, health care provider preference and demographics, as well as notating case information into databases.
Explain agency notices, case status information and benefit issuances as requested by clients.
Activate and issue/mail out EBT cards to qualifying clients.
Minimum Qualifications
Two years of experience working in a reception area or call center with high-volume data entry, ensuring information on applications is complete and accurate, and 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 relative to the class concept.
Bilingual in English and Spanish; the job offer will be contingent upon passing tests evaluating bilingual proficiency. Essential Attributes
We are looking for candidates with: Experience managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment and maintaining attention to detail.
Experience navigating changing policies and procedures with a positive attitude and a commitment to continuous learning.
Experience explaining complex information to clients and adapting communication to groups unfamiliar with the subject.
Experience resolving conflicts/disputes with clients with active listening and compassion.
Attention all candidates
A cover letter is required. Clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications and essential attributes in your application materials. Your materials will determine if you are selected to move forward. Include detailed work and education history.
Please ensure your application materials, including resume and job history, are clearly outlined as this information will be used to determine your starting salary range. If selected as final candidate and a degree is listed as a minimum qualification, be prepared to provide verification of education. Resume/cover letter may be uploaded in the Resume/CV field on the online application.
The State of Oregon does not request or require your age, date of birth, attendance, or graduation dates from an educational institution during the application process.
The use of outside resources such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) software during assessments is prohibited unless stated by the hiring agency. Unauthorized use may disqualify.
Important: monitor your email and Workday account for recruitment updates. You may be asked to submit additional information after initial application.
The job posting closes at 11:59 PM (PDT/PST) on the close date. After submission, you may need to answer two questionnaires related to public records requests and veterans’ preference.
Working Conditions
Work Location: In-person office environment.
Work Schedule: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, with variations based on office needs; overtime not required.
Travel: Some travel may be necessary for trainings, meetings, or office-related coverage. A valid driver's license is required; otherwise arrange transportation.
This role involves handling sensitive topics related to trauma, abuse, and crises, requiring a trauma-informed approach.
You may interact with individuals who have experienced trauma and may have difficulty managing their emotions.
Be prepared for stressful situations that require quick decision-making to ensure safety for all.
Background Checks and Requirements
If selected as a finalist, a criminal history and background check will be conducted. Adverse results may disqualify.
The Oregon Department of Human Services does not sponsor visas. Within three days of hire, you will complete the I-9 form and ODHS will use E-Verify. A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record are required.
Benefits
ODHS Employee Resource Group communities that promote shared learning.
Cost of Living Adjustments.
Annual salary increases (until reaching the top of the salary range).
Amazing benefits package.
Possible eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Employment Preference
Veterans’ and Oregon National Guard preference: Eligible veterans and Oregon National Guard servicemembers will be awarded candidate preference. For more information, visit Veterans Resources. How to submit veteran documents for preference: do not attach to Resume/CV field. 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
The recruiter for this position is Nadja Rue. If you contact the recruiter, please include the job requisition number: REQ-194754.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
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 historically underrepresented racial/ethnic groups, women, individuals with disabilities, veterans, LGBTQIA2S+ community members, and others to help us achieve a diverse and inclusive community. Opportunity awaits! Empower Individuals & Families — Support, Guide, and Make an Impact. This role helps individuals and families navigate essential services with expertise and care. It is key in ensuring smooth program operations, sharing vital policies, and providing specialized support to staff and management. We are seeking a dedicated Public Benefit Specialist, Entry | Bilingual English/Spanish required to join our Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) team in Estacada. Bilingual English/Spanish required: the job involves duties in both English and Spanish. The job offer will be contingent upon passing tests evaluating bilingual proficiency and may include a 5% differential pay based on language test results. Summary of Duties
The Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) is part of the Oregon Department of Human Services. OEP supports state staff who determine eligibility for medical, food, cash, and childcare benefits and manages the ONE Eligibility System used to process applications and deliver benefits. One in three people in Oregon receive benefits through the ONE Eligibility System. OEP administers the ONE Eligibility system in partnership with the Oregon Health Authority and the Department of Early Learning and Care. As a Public Benefits Specialist, Entry you will provide: Responsibilities
Administrative Duties/Customer Service: Work in office reception area and create a welcoming environment for the public with friendly, respectful, professional, and courteous service.
Respond to in-person, phone, email, and mail client inquiries regarding ODHS programs and services.
Receive and review incoming applications and documents, mail, faxes and emails.
Program Support: Provide basic information on ODHS programs and how to apply for them.
Gather and accurately enter/update client/case information into applicable State of Oregon databases.
Schedule program- and case-related appointments with eligibility workers and other ODHS staff.
Maintain community resource information and provide Oregonians information on how to access additional services.
Eligibility Support: Complete initial case screening to determine prior and/or current case history and enter new application information.
Perform basic case updates such as changes in contact information, health care provider preference and demographics, as well as notating case information into databases.
Explain agency notices, case status information and benefit issuances as requested by clients.
Activate and issue/mail out EBT cards to qualifying clients.
Minimum Qualifications
Two years of experience working in a reception area or call center with high-volume data entry, ensuring information on applications is complete and accurate, and 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 relative to the class concept.
Bilingual in English and Spanish; the job offer will be contingent upon passing tests evaluating bilingual proficiency. Essential Attributes
We are looking for candidates with: Experience managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment and maintaining attention to detail.
Experience navigating changing policies and procedures with a positive attitude and a commitment to continuous learning.
Experience explaining complex information to clients and adapting communication to groups unfamiliar with the subject.
Experience resolving conflicts/disputes with clients with active listening and compassion.
Attention all candidates
A cover letter is required. Clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications and essential attributes in your application materials. Your materials will determine if you are selected to move forward. Include detailed work and education history.
Please ensure your application materials, including resume and job history, are clearly outlined as this information will be used to determine your starting salary range. If selected as final candidate and a degree is listed as a minimum qualification, be prepared to provide verification of education. Resume/cover letter may be uploaded in the Resume/CV field on the online application.
The State of Oregon does not request or require your age, date of birth, attendance, or graduation dates from an educational institution during the application process.
The use of outside resources such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) software during assessments is prohibited unless stated by the hiring agency. Unauthorized use may disqualify.
Important: monitor your email and Workday account for recruitment updates. You may be asked to submit additional information after initial application.
The job posting closes at 11:59 PM (PDT/PST) on the close date. After submission, you may need to answer two questionnaires related to public records requests and veterans’ preference.
Working Conditions
Work Location: In-person office environment.
Work Schedule: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, with variations based on office needs; overtime not required.
Travel: Some travel may be necessary for trainings, meetings, or office-related coverage. A valid driver's license is required; otherwise arrange transportation.
This role involves handling sensitive topics related to trauma, abuse, and crises, requiring a trauma-informed approach.
You may interact with individuals who have experienced trauma and may have difficulty managing their emotions.
Be prepared for stressful situations that require quick decision-making to ensure safety for all.
Background Checks and Requirements
If selected as a finalist, a criminal history and background check will be conducted. Adverse results may disqualify.
The Oregon Department of Human Services does not sponsor visas. Within three days of hire, you will complete the I-9 form and ODHS will use E-Verify. A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record are required.
Benefits
ODHS Employee Resource Group communities that promote shared learning.
Cost of Living Adjustments.
Annual salary increases (until reaching the top of the salary range).
Amazing benefits package.
Possible eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Employment Preference
Veterans’ and Oregon National Guard preference: Eligible veterans and Oregon National Guard servicemembers will be awarded candidate preference. For more information, visit Veterans Resources. How to submit veteran documents for preference: do not attach to Resume/CV field. 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
The recruiter for this position is Nadja Rue. If you contact the recruiter, please include the job requisition number: REQ-194754.
#J-18808-Ljbffr