Public Benefits Specialist – Entry, Bilingual Required

Oregon Department of Human Services

. Serve as the first point of contact for Oregonians in the field office .

Posted 10/2/2026full-timePortland • Oregon • United StatesJuniorMid-Level💰 $3,798 - $4,954 per monthWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates proficiency in customer service and support, particularly in high-volume environments, while effectively managing sensitive information and providing trauma-informed assistance. Bilingual in English and Spanish, with the ability to communicate complex information clearly to diverse audiences.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Bilingual In English And SpanishCustomer Service ExperienceData Entry ProficiencyTrauma-Informed SupportFront-Line Support Experience

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.

Hard Skills

Data EntryDocument CompletionInterviewingFinancial TrackingConfidential Information Handling

Soft Skills

Emotional IntelligenceDe-Escalation SkillsAdaptabilityCommunication Skills

Tools & Technologies

Microsoft WordMicrosoft ExcelEmail SystemsOnline Search ToolsDigital Platforms

Certifications & Qualifications

Authorization To Work In The United StatesSuccessful Criminal History Check

Industry Keywords

Oregon Eligibility SystemODHSOHADELC ProgramsDiverse Communities

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Serve as the first point of contact for Oregonians in the field office
Provide a welcoming environment for families interacting with the department
Support day-to-day office operations and business functions
Assist Oregonians in person, by phone, and by email with questions about the Oregon Eligibility system and ODHS, OHA, and DELC programs
Provide trauma-informed support
Track, issue, and account for financial actions and requirements when assigned
Work through the Oregon Eligibility Partnership to facilitate access to vital services
Manage frequent public contact, including potentially de-escalating customers experiencing emotional and financial stress
Perform high-volume computer work in a fast-paced team environment
Adapt to changing priorities and procedures

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bilingual in English and Spanish; must pass a proficiency test
Two years of high-volume reception area or call center experience involving interviewing, customer service, data entry, or document completion; OR
Associate degree in Behavioral Science, Social Science, or a closely related field and six months of experience in a busy reception area or call center; OR
Equivalent combination of education, training, and relevant experience
Front-line support experience with diverse communities and clients
Ability to explain complex rules, regulations, and procedures to varied audiences
Ability to handle, collect, and safeguard confidential and sensitive information
Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, email systems, online search tools, and digital platforms
Accurate detailed data entry and verification
Ability to provide sensitive, respectful support to customers navigating financial or emotional circumstances
Authorization to work in the United States; the Oregon Department of Human Services does not offer visa sponsorship
Successful criminal history and background check
May require a valid driver’s license or other acceptable transportation