DSHS ESA Public Benefits Specialist

DSHS ESA Public Benefits Specialist 1‑3

Economic Services Administration, Community Service Division offers an entry‑level Public Benefits Specialist position with training provided. This role is based on site at our Spokane Trent Community Service Office (CSO). You will provide compassionate, day‑to‑day assistance helping Washingtonians navigate public service, with a full‑time career that can lead to a rewarding profession in public service.

Those hired into the Public Benefits Specialist 1‑3 training plan can expect a minimum monthly salary of $4,428.00 (Step G). Salary increases with successful training. Salary progression is shown below.

• Public Benefits Specialist 1: $4,428.00 Step G – $5,011.00 Step L (6 months)
• Public Benefits Specialist 2: $4,653.00 Step F – $5,398.00 Step L (6 months)
• Public Benefits Specialist 3: $5,137.00 Step G – $5,812.00 Step L

• Process applications for initial and on‑going 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, applications, and verification for each benefit program.
• Process all applications and case actions in accordance with federal and state requirements based 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. You will work with diverse clients speaking many languages and receive classroom training early in the role to support your development.

• Four years in a customer‑service job involving public contact or staff support in financial eligibility determination (e.g., processing loan applications, medical insurance or rehabilitation claims, unemployment insurance claims). College education may substitute one year for each year of experience.
• OR one year of equivalent, out‑of‑state experience conducting financial eligibility determination for public assistance, including financial, medical and food benefit programs.

• Thrives in a standardized work setting.
• Able to learn and utilize a variety of computer programs.
• Effectively communicates with people in diverse or difficult situations, including calming others and working with people who have communication challenges, assisting underserved populations, and discussing confidential and unpleasant options in person and over the phone.
• Works with complex technical regulations and procedures and analyzes complex situations.
• Refrains from personal bias when determining eligibility.
• Prioritizes and performs multiple tasks in a busy office with numerous interruptions.

The Department of Social and Health Services’ (DSHS) vision is that people find human services to shape their own lives, and we bring fairness, access, and social justice to our work. We support all Washingtonians, including Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, people with disabilities, elders, LGBTQIA individuals, immigrants and refugees, and families building financial security.

Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history may be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered when determining suitability and competence for the job. This announcement may be used to fill multiple vacancies. Employees driving on state business must have a valid driver's license. Employees driving a privately owned vehicle on state business must have liability insurance.

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 identity, marital status, race, creed, color, national origin, religion or beliefs, political affiliation, military status, veteran status, disability, paid leave, or genetic information. Persons requiring accommodation in the application process or this announcement can contact the recruiter at .

Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through Washington Relay Service at

E-Verify is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.