Public Benefits Specialist In-Training; PBS; Moses Lake

Our vision is to ensure that “All Washington's children and youth grow up safe and healthy, thriving physically, emotionally, and educationally, nurtured by family and community”.

Job Title: Public Benefits Specialist In-Training (PBS1-3)
Location: Hybrid – 1651 Pilgrim Street, Moses Lake, WA 98837
Hybrid

Work Schedule:

This position is eligible for a hybrid work schedule; however, regular in-office attendance is required to meet business needs. Employees should anticipate working in the office approximately 2–3 days per week until they have demonstrated full independence and proficiency in performing the duties of the position.
Closes: Friday, November 13th, 2026
Salary:$4,517 - $5,928 monthly

Do you enjoy helping people navigate complex systems and connecting families with resources? If so, consider applying for the Public Benefits Specialist 1–3 In-Training position with DCYF. In this role, you’ll support families applying for or receiving Child Care Subsidy benefits through DCYF’s Contact Center in Moses Lake. Your work helps families access affordable childcare that supports employment, education, and long-term stability while providing compassionate, knowledgeable customer service.

to learn more about DCYF.

As a Public Benefits Specialist, you will provide direct customer service in a fast-paced call center, helping families apply for childcare assistance through Washington’s Child Care Subsidy Program. You’ll conduct interviews, review documentation, gather information from applicants and third parties, and determine eligibility based on state and federal rules. This role requires strong communication, sound judgment, and the ability to make independent decisions while navigating complex eligibility requirements.

You’ll assess household circumstances, explain program requirements, and provide accurate, respectful guidance.

Successful candidates are comfortable in a structured, high-volume call environment and committed to detailed, customer-focused work that supports family stability and access to early learning opportunities.

• Conduct intensive interviews with customers to determine eligibility for services, or continued eligibility for services when notifying the program of changes of circumstances for Child Care benefits.
• Process Child Care applications received from the Washington Connection online applications, in the Document Management System (DMS), and through interactive interviews.
• Analyze collected oral and written information to determine accurate benefits and continued program eligibility.
• Finalize Child Care applications and reapplications with information received and verified for accurate determination of eligibility.
• Refer clients to both mandatory and optional services, including to other agencies as required.
• Take actions necessary to ensure that limited English proficient clients receive properly translated forms and translation services from state certified, contracted translators and interpreters.
• Authorize Working Connections Child Care Subsidy payment to approved Licensed facility and Family Friend and Neighbor (FFN) Subsidy Providers through the Social Services Payment System (SSPS).
• Compute and initiate over payments and client notifications when necessary.
• Issue reimbursements and benefits when appropriate to correct under issuances.
• Assist Child Care Providers with subsidy payment information and other requirements to receive subsidy.

The goal class of this position is a Public Benefits Specialist 3 (PBS3). We will also consider candidates at the PBS1 & PBS2 levels, with a training plan to advance to the goal class. The Hiring Manager will evaluate the education and experience of each candidate for one…