Public Benefits Specialist-Entry

Initial Posting Date:

Application Deadline:

Agency:

Salary Range:

Position Type:

Position Title:

Job Description:

Opportunity awaits!

In Oregon, we believe that every individual deserves the right to live their best life, supported by person-centered services that prioritize independence, safety, and cultural respect—join us in making this vision a reality, apply today!

As a Public Benefits Specialist-Entry, you will work in the Pendleton office on Southgate Place assisting Oregonians in-person.

Summary of Duties

As a Public Benefits Specialist-Entry, you will:

• Serve as the primary point of contact in field offices, creating a welcoming and trauma‑informed environment for Oregonians seeking services.

• Support daily office operations, including business functions, financial tasks, and general administrative needs.

• Assist Oregonians in person, by phone, and by email with questions related to ODHS, OHA, and DELC programs, including navigation of the ONE eligibility system.

• Gather and enter demographic and program information into the ONE system for programs such as SNAP, OHP, TANF, ERDC, and related benefits.

• Review forms and documentation for completeness and accuracy, resolve discrepancies, and troubleshoot issues such as benefit concerns or scheduling needs.

• Issue and document EBT cards, process voter registration forms, and provide computer‑generated medical IDs when needed.

• Maintain confidential information in accordance with policy and safeguard sensitive data.

• Process Home Care Worker applications, maintain related records, assist with orientation scheduling, and help resolve payment issues.

• Manage incoming and outgoing mail, including sorting, date‑stamping, routing, and applying postage.

• Provide resource and referral information to individuals seeking services and direct them to appropriate staff or community partners.

• Print and distribute reports and other office materials as needed.

Learn more about our programs, as your work providing services will be through the Aging & People with Disabilities Programs (APD).

Minimum Qualifications

• Two years of experience working in a reception area or call center either interviewing to obtain information or providing customer service. This experience must have involved a high volume of work (e.g., data entry, assuring information on applications is complete and accurate, completing necessary documents, etc.); OR

• An associate degree in a 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.

Essential Attributes

We are looking for candidates with:

• Experience working independently to complete tasks and projects with minimal oversight.

• Experience managing tasks from multiple sources, adjusting priorities as needs shift.

• Proficient experience with digital tools, such as Microsoft Word, Excel, email systems, and online search tools.

• Experience building and maintaining relationships with community partners and private business owners to support shared goals.

• Experience providing compassionate, patient support to customers experiencing financial or emotional stress while maintaining professionalism.

Attention all candidates!

Clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications and essential attributes in your application materials. Your application materials will determine if you are selected to move forward in the selection process. Please include detailed work and education history.

• Please make sure your application materials, resume and job history, are clearly outlined as this information will be used to determine your starting salary range. Note: Your 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 otherwise stated by the hiring agency. Unauthorized use of outside resources during the hiring process will result in disqualification.

• 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.

Working Conditions

• Position works a professional work week, Monday thru Friday, 8am-5pm.

• Works in a general office environment.

• This position may involve interacting with individuals who are experiencing distress or heightened emotions, and there may be situations where exposure to communicable illnesses is possible.

• Day travel may be required regularly within the service area.

• Some overnight travel may be required for training and/or support other offices.

Background Checks and Requirements

• If selected as a finalist, we will conduct a criminal history and background check. Adverse criminal history or background check may lead to disqualification. Additional background check information.

• The Oregon Department of Human Services does not offer visa sponsorship. Within three days of hire, you will be required to complete the US Department of Homeland Security’s I-9 form confirming authorization to work in the United States. ODHS will use E-Verify to confirm that you are authorized to work in the United States.

• May require a valid driver’s license or other acceptable method of transportation.

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).

• 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 (current and former) who meet the qualifications of the position will be awarded candidate preference. For more information, please visit Veterans Resources.

General Information

• This is a permanent, full-time position and is represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU).  

• The salary range listed is the non-PERS monthly salary range. If you are already a participating PERS member or once you become PERS eligible, the salary range will increase by 6.95%.

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

Contact Information

We invite you to contact the recruiter for accommodation requests under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), application questions or job-specific questions.

• The recruiter for this position is Yvette Medford. If you contact the recruiter, please include the job requisition number.

• Email: [email protected]

• Phone (call or text): 541-709-0306