Operations Support (Public Benefits Specialist, Entry) at State of Oregon

Initial Posting Date

11/13/2025

Application Deadline

11/20/2025

Agency

Department of Human Services

Salary Range

$3,705 - $4,833

Position Type

Employee

Position Title

Operations Support (Public Benefits Specialist, Entry)

Job Description

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.

Opportunity awaits!

Looking for meaningful work with real impact? We welcome you to bring your customer service knowledge and experience and step into this role where your skills can shine!

Summary Of Duties

As an Operations Support (Public Benefits Specialist, Entry) you will:

• Greet and assist Oregonians through a trauma-informed lens.
• This position will contribute to the welcoming environment as families interact with the department. In supporting the day-to-day operations of the office, virtually through the online application portal or telephone communication.
• Work with Oregonians who are applying for programs such as medical, cash for families (TANF), Domestic Violence services, food benefits (SNAP), childcare assistance (ERDC), and long-term care services in-person, by phone and via our online applicant portal to answer case status and other inquiries; provide information on how to access community resources.
• Complete all administrative duties to include but not limited too; Data entry, maintaining electronic filing, coordinate meeting rooms, and manage incoming mail in person and electronically.
• Work within a team that collaboratively rotates tasks to support the business needs of the office.
  
  

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 clearly communicating program rules, procedures, and eligibility requirements to diverse audiences while demonstrating active listening skills.
• Experience processing detailed data accurately and efficiently in support of program or organizational goals.
• Experience collaborating and coordinating across teams, multiple departments and/or community partners.
• Experience and proficiency in Microsoft office and online search tools.
• Experience with managing high-volume, fast-paced front desk operations while ensuring a welcoming and organized environment.
  
  

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. 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

• Work schedule is 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Monday – Friday On-site in Salem, OR.
• Overtime or additional hours beyond your normal schedule is rare, however could be based on business needs.
• Experience constant contact with the public, including contact with customers experience emotional or 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 requires the ability to be flexible in application of procedures.
  
  

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.
• A valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record are required for this position.
• Finalists must be cleared by a FBI Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) through a fingerprint-based criminal records check.
• HB3187: 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.
  
  

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.
  
  

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 Rochelle Peters. If you contact the recruiter, please include the job requisition number.
• Email: [email protected]