Initial Posting Date:
02/25/2026Application Deadline:
03/04/2026Agency:
Department of Human ServicesSalary Range:
$3,798 - $4,954Position Type:
EmployeePosition Title:
Public Benefits Specialist, Entry Bilingual – Spanish requiredJob 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! Become the cornerstone of support for those seeking vital services, as you leverage your comprehensive understanding of internal programs to navigate clients through the intricate landscape of OEP Programs with confidence and clarity.
We are seeking a dedicated Public Benefit Specialist, Entry | Bilingual English/Spanish required to join our Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) team in Salem.
Bilingual English/Spanish required:
This position is bilingual and requires duties to be carried out in both English and Spanish.
The job offer will be contingent upon passing test(s) evaluating your proficiency in the bilingual requirements of the position.
This position may receive a 5% differential pay based on passing the required language test.
Summary of Duties
As a Public Benefit Specialist, Entry, you will:
Create a welcoming environment for the public with friendly, respectful, professional, and courteous service.
Receive and review incoming applications and documents, mail, faxes and emails.
Gather and accurately enter/update client/case information into applicable State of Oregon databases.
Complete initial case screening to determine prior and/or current case history and enter new application information.
Perform basic case updates such as changes in contact information, health care provider preference and demographics, as well as notating case information into databases.
Minimum Qualifications
To qualify for this position, you must be bilingual in Spanish and English.
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 prioritizing tasks and managing time effectively in a fast-paced work environment consistently meeting deadlines.
Experience performing detail-oriented work with a high degree of accuracy and consistency.
Experience handling confidential information with discretion by phone, in person, and in writing.
Demonstrated interpersonal skills with the ability to build and maintain trusting, collaborative teams.
Working Conditions
Work Locations: In-person office environment.
Work Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM, with slight variations based on office business needs; overtime is not required.
Travel: Some travel may be necessary for trainings, meetings, or office-related coverage. Employees using a personal or state vehicle must hold a valid driver’s license; otherwise, they must be able to arrange appropriate transportation.
This role involves handling sensitive topics related to trauma, abuse, and crises, requiring a trauma-informed approach that is essential to ensure a safe environment.
You may interact with individuals who have experienced trauma and may have difficulty managing their emotions.
Be prepared for stressful situations that require quick decision-making to ensure safety for yourself and others.
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’ 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).
This recruitment may be used to fill future vacancies in the same classification.
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%.
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 Adrian Ortiz. If you contact the recruiter, please include the job requisition number: REQ-195740.
Email: Adrian.x.ortiz@odhs.oregon.gov
Phone (call or text): 541-408-6557