Initial Posting Date:
08/06/2026
Application Deadline:
08/13/2026
Agency:
Department of Human Services
Salary Range:
$3,798 - $4,954
Position Type:
Employee
Position Title:
Public Benefits Specialist Entry
Job Description:
TheOregon Department of Human Servicesis proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.We are guided by ourEquity North Starand our vision for a positiveRiSEorganizational culturethat 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.
As aPublic Benefits Specialist - Entry,you will work in ourKlamath FallsofficeassistingOregonians in-person.
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!
Summary of Duties
As aPublic Benefits Specialist - Entry,you will:
Support the infrastructure of the office by supporting the day-to-day operation, including providing agency forms and directing Oregonians toappropriate servicesor resources.
Provide backup support toLakeviewoffice when necessary.
Assist Oregonians by providing support in person, over the phone and by email to resolve any questions or concerns with the application for Oregon Eligibility system, for ODHS, Oregon Health Authority (OHA), and Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) programs.
Issue and receive EBT cards,help clients resolve EBT card problems and ensure the security,control,and maintenance of the EBT process is in place.
Assisting Oregonians through a trauma informed lens - creating a welcoming environment for the public.
Financial duties that may include tracking, issuing, and accounting for all financial actions and requirements needed.
Providing support for the business functions within the office.Be the first face of contact in most field offices for Oregonians and provide a welcoming environment for families to interact with the department.
Minimum Qualifications
(2)Two years of experienceworking in a reception area or call centereither 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 andaccurate, completing necessary documents, etc.); OR
Essential Attributes
We are looking for candidates with:
Customer Service:Experience providing front-line customer serviceand, on the phone,serving a diverse clientele.
Information Technology:Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and other software for scheduling, data entry, documentation, and internal communication, supporting smooth office operations and client service delivery.
Time Management:Experience using time management, organization, and prioritization skills to track and complete tasks.
De-escalation: De-escalate high-stress situations, using clear communication and consistent approaches to resolve conflict and stabilize clients.
Communication:Demonstratedability to adapt communicationstyles toeffectivelyin written and verbally toconvey complex rules, regulations, and procedures to diverse audiences.
Customer Care: Demonstratedexpertisein supporting customers facing financial or emotional hardship with professionalism, empathy, and compassion.
Confidentiality: Skilled in handling, collecting, and safeguarding confidential and sensitive information.
Attention all candidates!Clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications and essential attributes in your application materials. Your application materials willdetermineif you are selected to move forward in theselectionprocess. Please include detailed work and education history.
The use of outside resources such as Artificial Intelligence software during applicant skill assessments, examinations, and/or interviews is prohibited unless otherwisestatedby the hiring agency. Unauthorized use of outside resources during the hiring process will result in disqualification.
Working Conditions
Work schedule is a tradition work week, Monday-Friday8AM - 5PM; hours of work may fluctuate based on service needs. Occasionally, overtime compensation may berequired, including evening and weekend work.
Occasional travel isrequiredfor attending meetings, training, and other case related activities.May need to travel to Lakeview to provide support.
Some travel may be in hazardous weather conditions.
Experience constant contact with the public, including contact with andpossibly de-escalatingcustomers experiencing emotional and financial stress.
Experience high volume of computer work, using various computer programs in a fast-paced team environment.
Priorities and procedures may change daily andrequirethe ability to be flexible in application of procedures.
This positionisin the store front office.
Background Checks and Requirements
The Oregon Department of Human Services does not offer visa sponsorship. Within three days of hire, you willbe requiredto 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 youare authorized towork in the United States.
Benefits
Employment Preference
Veterans' and Oregon National Guard preference:
General Information
Contact Information
We invite you to contact the recruiter for accommodation requests under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), applicationquestionsor job-specific questions.