If you’re exploring a career in behavioral health, it’s natural to have questions. Below are answers to some of the most common questions about working at Marion County Health & Human Services (MCHHS).
How does government pay compare to the private sector?
Government compensation is often different from private sector compensation because it combines structured salary growth with a comprehensive benefits package. At MCHHS, pay follows a defined structure rather than individual negotiation. Most employees begin at Step 1 of a 7-step pay scale, with an approximate 5% increase each year until Step 7. Eligible employees then receive longevity increases at 10, 15, and 20 years of service. Employees in eligible non-management positions that require bilingual skills can earn an additional 5% in bilingual pay after passing a language test.
Compensation also extends beyond salary. For eligible staff, MCHHS contributes funds to cover medical and dental premiums, provides long-term disability coverage, and offers life insurance equal to annual salary at no cost. Our Total Compensation Calculator combines these into a single figure, so you can estimate the full value of your compensation rather than base salary alone.
Is the hiring process long and complicated?
Public sector hiring can sometimes take longer than private sector hiring because it follows a structured process designed to ensure fairness, legal accountability, and public trust. At MCHHS, the process generally follows six steps:
- Interested candidates submit applications, which are reviewed against the position’s minimum qualifications after the posting closes.
- The hiring manager reviews qualified applications, and selected candidates are invited for interviews.
- Finalists complete follow-up interviews and reference checks.
- A verbal offer is extended to the top-ranked candidate; the offer includes the pay scale placement and a proposed start date.
- The selected candidate completes contingencies such as a background check, post-offer drug screen, DMV check, and bilingual exam, where applicable.
- You receive a formal offer and begin New Employee Orientation.
Can I build a career in the public sector?
Yes! The 7-step pay scale system is built around steady advancement on an established schedule rather than year-to-year negotiation. There is also room to move between roles as qualifications, credentials, and openings align, for example, from Mental Health Associate to Mental Health Specialist. And, someone starting as a Peer Support Specialist can build a long-term career in a field that directly values lived recovery experience.
Is MCHHS a stable place to build a long-term career?
MCHHS offers structured pay plans, and many positions are represented by union contracts that provide clear expectations for pay progression, working conditions, and benefits. Eligible employees also participate in PERS, the Oregon Public Employees Retirement System, and MCHHS pays the employee’s 6% PERS contribution on their behalf. Together, these benefits help support employees throughout their careers. You can learn more about PERS directly from the State of Oregon at oregon.gov/pers.
What about flexibility and remote work?
Behavioral health roles at MCHHS are in-person, based in Salem or Woodburn, with regularly scheduled shifts. If you’re looking for a hands-on role working directly with people, these positions offer that opportunity every day.
What makes work at MCHHS meaningful?
The work at MCHHS is both meaningful and forward-looking. From crisis response and mental health care to supporting Marion County families, employees make a real impact every day. That sense of purpose is reflected in our 2026 staff survey. When asked why they chose a career at MCHHS, 62% cited meaningful work. When asked why they stay, meaningful work ranked second only to job stability. Our work is grounded in five core values: accountability, adaptability, teamwork, transparency, and being welcoming.
Is MCHHS right for me?
A career at MCHHS offers structured salary progression, strong retirement benefits through PERS, and work connected to a clear public service mission.
If you’re looking for a role where you can build long-term stability, grow your skills, and be part of a team serving the community, a career at MCHHS is worth serious consideration.
To estimate your full compensation, try the Total Compensation Calculator on our Benefits page, or visit our Who We Are page for the complete hiring FAQ. When you’re ready, browse open roles at MCHHS on GovernmentJobs.com.
