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Public Benefits Specialist, Entry. Part-Time Position. Spanish Preferred

State of Oregon, Salem, OR, United States


Position Title Public Benefits Specialist, Entry – Part‑Time Position (Spanish Preferred)

Posting Information

Initial Posting Date: 04/02/2026

Application Deadline: 04/09/2026

Agency: Department of Human Services

Salary Range: $4,051 – $5,298

Position Type: Employee

Job Description The Oregon Department of Human Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer guided by our Equity North Star and 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.

Public Benefits Specialists work in-person at the Roseburg, Oregon Branch, assisting Oregonians with services including medical, TANF, domestic violence, SNAP, ERDC, and long‑term care. This is a part‑time, on‑site position with no remote work option.

Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred. Bilingual differential pay of 5% of base pay is available after passing the Spanish language exam.

Summary of Duties

Serve as the first point of contact for customers entering the office, using the online portal, or calling.

Contribute to a welcoming environment and greet Oregonians with a trauma‑informed lens.

Assist with applications for medical, TANF, domestic violence, SNAP, ERDC, long‑term care, plus case status inquiries and community resource information.

Collaborate with team members, rotating tasks to support office needs.

Minimum Qualifications

Two years in a reception area or call center with high‑volume customer service and data entry, OR

Associate degree in Behavioral Science, Social Science or related field plus six months of busy reception/call‑center experience, OR

Equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

Essential Attributes

Professional customer service demeanor across telephone, written, and in‑person interactions.

Computer proficiency: web browsers, databases, Microsoft Office, and office equipment, including multitasking across systems.

Clear communication of complex rules to diverse customers, using active listening and simplified explanations.

Team collaboration and inclusion of all voices.

Attention to accuracy and detail in data entry and follow‑up actions.

Experience with trauma‑aware, strength‑based practices and equity‑focused service.

Working Conditions

Office front‑end work, no remote option.

Schedule to be discussed during interview.

Regular public interaction, including emotionally stressed citizens.

Potential prolonged computer or telephone use.

Background Checks and Requirements

Criminal history and background check for finalists; adverse history may lead to disqualification.

Non‑visa sponsorship; I‑9 and E‑Verify required within three days of hire.

Benefits

ODHS Employee Resource Group communities.

Cost‑of‑living adjustments.

Annual salary increases until top of range.

Amazing benefits package.

Possible eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Veterans’ Preference

Veterans’ preference information.

Submit veteran documents separately from resume/CV.

Eligible Oregon National Guard members (DA5016, DD214, or NGB22), 5% award starting January 2026.

General Information

Permanent, full‑time position represented by SEIU.

Recruitment may fill future vacancies in the same classification.

Contact Information

Recruiter: Brent Lawrence (job requisition number required).

Email: Brent.Lawrence@odhs.oregon.gov

Contact recruiter for ADA accommodations, application questions, or job‑specific inquiries.

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