Job Description

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

As a Public Benefits Specialist - Entry, you will work in our Klamath Falls office assisting Oregonians 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!

of Duties

As a Public 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 to appropriate services or resources.

• Provide backup support to Lakeview office 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 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:

• Customer Service: Experience providing front-line customer service and, 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: Demonstrated ability to adapt communication styles to effectively in written and verbally to convey complex rules, regulations, and procedures to diverse audiences.

• Customer Care: Demonstrated expertise in supporting customers facing financial or emot ional 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 will determine if you are selected to move forward in the selection process. Please include detailed work and education history.

• Please upload a resume or complete the work history profile. Note: Your resume and cover letter may be uploaded in the Resume/CV field on the online application.

• 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.

• 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

• Work schedule is a tradition work week, Monday-Friday 8AM - 5PM; hours of work may fluctuate based on service needs.  Occasionally, overtime compensation may be required, including evening and weekend work.

• Occasional travel is required for 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 and possibly de-escalating customers 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 and require the ability to be flexible in application of procedures. 

• This position is in the store front office.

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 Sugei Hernandez If you contact the recruiter, please include the job requisition number.

• Email: Sugei.Hernandez@odhs.oregon.gov