Job Description

Initial Posting Date:

03/26/2026

Application Deadline:

04/02/2026

Agency:

Department of Human Services

Salary Range:

$4,519 - $5,988

Position Type:

Employee

Position Title:

Public Benefits Specialist

The Oregon Department of Human Services is proud to be 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.

NOTE: A Cover Letter is required! If you do not provide a Cover Letter, your application will be declined!

of Duties

As a Public Benefits Specialist, you will:

• Play a critical role in providing a safety net that supports better outcomes for Oregonians.

• Provide resources that support individual and family stability.

• Determine eligibility for people applying for various programs and benefits through interviewing, gathering and assessing information. Programs we administer include Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Long Term Care (LTC) services, Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF), Employment Related Day Care (ERDC), Domestic Violence services and various Medicaid (Health insurance) programs.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

One year of experience working at the Human Services Specialist 1 level for the State of Oregon; OR

Two years of experience working with the public, providing assistance and interpreting and applying policies, rules, or guidelines; OR

An associate degree in a Behavioral Science, Social Science or a closely related field AND six months of experience working with the public, providing assistance and interpreting and applying policies, rules, or guidelines; OR

An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience relative to the class concept.

Essential Attributes

We are looking for candidates with:

• Experience providing services with respect and compassion for community members who have historically been marginalized, underserved, in crisis, or disadvantaged.

• Experience conducting work that requires attention to detail, particularly with data entry and reviewing financial or technical documents.

• Experience with technical skills that include basic computer knowledge, Microsoft Office software and learning new web-based platforms.

• Experience recognizing symptoms and behaviors that originate from adapting to trauma and using trauma informed de-escalation tactics to minimize re-traumatization.

Attention all candidates! A cover letter is required – if you do not provide a Cover Letter, your application will be declined. 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. If you are selected as the final candidate and a degree is listed as a minimum qualification for the position, please be prepared to provide verification of your completed education before moving forward in the hiring process. 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

• The work schedule is 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday – Friday on-site and in-person each workday at the Roseburg ODHS branch office

• Contact with the public, including contact with Oregonians experiencing emotional and financial stress.

• Serve a diverse range of customers with compassion and professionalism through a trauma informed lens.

• May require sitting at a computer or telephone for prolonged periods of the workday.

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.

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’ preference:

• Veterans’ preference information

• How to submit your Veteran documents for preference Please do not attach your Veterans’ preference documentation in the Resume/CV field of your application.

• Oregon National Guard. Form DA5016, DD214 or NGB22 Required.

General Information

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

• 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 Brent Lawrence. If you contact the recruiter, please include the job requisition number.

• Email: Brent.Lawrence@odhs.oregon.gov