Public Benefits Support Specialist (Entry)

State of Oregon; Albany (OR); On-site; USD 42,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

ODHS Employee Resource Groups

Cost of Living Adjustments

Annual salary increases

Amazing benefits package

Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)

Job summary

The Oregon Department of Human Services is seeking an entry-level Benefits Support Staff to be the first point of contact for individuals and families seeking assistance with medical, cash, food, childcare, and long‑term care programs. This in-person, full-time role is based in the Albany office and emphasizes equity, trauma-informed service, and compassionate communication.

You will gather information, help customers navigate programs, and document interactions across multiple computer systems

Qualifications

• Two years of experience in a reception area or call center with high-volume work.
• Associate degree in Behavioral or Social Science and six months of frontline experience.
• Equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

Responsibilities

• Create a welcoming and supportive environment for customers.
• Greet and assist customers and colleagues using a trauma-informed approach.
• Assist customers applying for programs and services (medical, TANF, TA-DVS, SNAP, ERDC, long-term care).
• Gather initial information in person/phone/online portal; provide case status updates.
• Perform financial duties, including tracking and accounting for financial transactions.
• Manage a high volume of work across multiple computer systems.

Skills

Customer service

Data entry

Communication

Multi-tasking

Trauma-informed approach

Education

Associate degree in Behavioral or Social Science

Equivalent combination of education and experience

Job description

The Oregon Department of Human Services is seeking an entry-level Benefits Support Staff to be the first point of contact for individuals and families seeking assistance with medical, cash, food, childcare, and long‑term care programs. This in-person, full-time role is based in the Albany office and emphasizes equity, trauma-informed service, and compassionate communication.

You will gather information, help customers navigate programs, and document interactions across multiple computer systems