What are the responsibilities and job description for the Human Services Specialist 1. Bilingual English/Spanish Preferred. position at Department of Human Services?
Initial Posting Date:
01/27/2025
Application Deadline:
02/10/2025
Agency:
Department of Human Services
Salary Range:
$3,651 - $4,943
Position Type:
Employee
Position Title:
Human Services Specialist 1. Bilingual English/Spanish Preferred.
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.
Spanish/English bilingual encouraged: We request bilingual in Spanish and English preferred, but it is not required for this position. Upon passing the test(s), you will receive 5% bilingual differential pay.
Opportunity awaits! Would you like a career that is both rewarding and provides an opportunity for career growth? If you have experience providing customer service in a fast-paced environment while obtaining information for needed services, then this may be the position for you!
Summary of Duties
As a Customer Service Guide (Human Services Specialist 1), you will:
- Be the first face of contact in most offices for customers either entering the physical office or virtually through the online application portal or telephone communication.
- Contribute to the welcoming environment as families interact with the department.
- Support the day-to-day operations of the office, this position will primarily:
- Greet and assist Oregonians through a trauma-informed lens.
- 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.
- Work within a team that collaboratively rotates tasks to support the business needs of the office.
Minimum Qualifications
- Two (2) years of experience either interviewing to obtain personal or technical information or substantial people contact. This experience must have involved a high volume of paperwork (e.g., assuring information on forms is complete and accurate, completing necessary documents, etc.).
- College-level courses may be substituted for the experience on a year-for-year basis.
For this position, we request you to be bilingual in Spanish and English as preferred, but it is not required.
Essential Attributes
We are looking for candidates with:
Customer Service: Calm, approachable, and professional demeanor that delivers quality customer service daily by telephone, in writing or in person. Ability to demonstrate active listening and compassion to serve diverse customer needs including when customers are in high distress.
Computer Skills: Adept in usage and functionality of computers, web browsers, databases, and Microsoft programs along with other general office equipment such as phone systems, copiers, scanners, fax. Ability to learn and use multiple systems in tandem for research and tracking.
Communication: Experience explaining technical information such as complex rules, regulations, or procedures to customers who are unfamiliar with the subject and/or learn and communicate differently than you. Ability to read to read non-verbal signals. Break down information into pieces deliver it with confidence. Succinct and clear messaging. Able to use relatable examples for complex information. Repeats back information to ensure understanding.
Collaborative Team Member: Demonstrated commitment to developing relationships that establish trust, approachability, and flexibility amongst individuals with diverse learning and communication styles. Inclusive and respectful of others’ contributions and ideas. Includes rather than excludes team members. Focuses on positive contributions rather than negative. Seeks to understand rather than correct.
Accuracy and Attention to Detail: Ability to review and verify information for the purpose of completing accurate data entry. Dedication to developing a comprehensive understanding of assignment to determine appropriate outcomes and follow up actions needed. Double checks work for accuracy. Able to break larger processes down to smaller pieces. Uses available resources such as guides and checklists.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Demonstrates a commitment to continued learning and contributing to an inclusive and anti-racist workplace. Empathy even when disagreeing. Not afraid to speak up when faced with discriminatory language/behavior. Goes out of way to include others from all backgrounds. Able to help all people. Demonstrates openness to new environments and experiences. Seeks education to improve understanding.
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.
Working Conditions
- The work schedule is Monday – Friday on-site and in person at the Cottage Grove ODHS branch office.
- Contact with the public, including contact with Oregonians experiencing emotional and financial stress.
- Serve a diverse range of customers with compassion and professionalism through a trauma informed lens.
- May require sitting at a computer or telephone for prolonged periods of the workday.
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 Groupcommunities that promote shared learning.
- Cost of Living Adjustments.
- Annual salary increases (until you reach the top of the listed salary range).
- Amazingbenefits package.
- Possible eligibility for thePublic 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 Brent Lawrence. If you contact the recruiter, please include the job requisition number.
- Email: brent.lawrence@odhs.oregon.gov
