DSHS ESA Public Benefits Specialist

DSHS ESA Public Benefits Specialist 1-3

Economic Services Administration ESA);
Community Service Division (CSD) has an exciting entry‑level position as a Public Benefits Specialist, with training provided. This role involves working on‑site at our community services office located in Centralia, WA. Your compassion shows at work each day as you help fellow Washingtonians. This full‑time career can be a gateway to a rewarding profession in public service.

• Process applications for initial and ongoing eligibility determinations for Financial, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, and Medicaid Assistance programs using internal software.
• Conduct intensive interviews and independently determine eligibility.
• Gather and review data, application, and other documents, and verify for each benefit program based on individual circumstances.
• Process all applications and case actions in accordance with Federal and State requirements that depend on household income and size.
• Explain program requirements, application procedures, and verification needs, and answer questions regarding benefits or available services to clients.

A career in public service can be demanding yet rewarding. Our customers come from diverse backgrounds and speak many languages. You will receive virtual classroom training during the beginning of your career, and we will support you every step of the way.

• Four years in a customer‑service job where major duties involved public contact or staff support in financial eligibility determination (e.g., loan, medical insurance, rehabilitation, or unemployment claims).
• A bachelor’s degree.
• A combination of years of the above experience and education totaling four years.
• One year of the above experience and education totaling four years.

• Thrives in a standardized work setting.
• Able to learn and utilize various computer programs.
• Can communicate effectively with people in diverse or difficult situations, including calming others, working with people who have communication challenges, assisting underserved populations, and discussing confidential and unpleasant options in person and over the phone.
• Can work with complex technical regulations and procedures, and analyze complex situations.
• Refrains from personal bias when determining eligibility.
• Competent to prioritize and perform multiple tasks in a busy office with numerous interruptions.

King County employees receive 5% premium pay in addition to the advertised salary and are eligible for a free ORCA card for transportation use.

• Public Benefits Specialist 1: $4,093.00 – $4,632.00 per step G–L.
• Public Benefits Specialist 2: $4,299.00 – $5,241.00 per step D–L.
• Public Benefits Specialist 3: $4,740.00 – $5,643.00 per step E–L.

Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history may be conducted. Background check results may be considered in determining suitability for employment. Employees driving on state business must have a valid driver’s license; driving a privately owned vehicle on state business requires liability insurance on that vehicle.

Washington State Department of Social and Health Services is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in any area of employment on the basis of age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity/expression, marital status, race, creed, color, national origin, religion or beliefs, political affiliation, military status, veteran status, disability, or use of a trained service dog. Persons requiring accommodation in the application process may contact the recruiter.

The E‑Verify® registration is a U.S. DHS program.