DSHS ESA Public Benefits Specialist

DSHS ESA Public Benefits Specialist 1-3

Economic Services Administration, Community Service Division has an exciting entry-level position as a Public Benefits Specialist, with training provided. This role involves working on-site at our Port Angeles Community Service Office (CSO). When you work for us, your compassion shows at work every day, helping the lives of your fellow Washingtonians. This full-time career can be a gateway to a rewarding profession in public service.

• Public Benefits Specialist 1: $4,428.00 Step G – $5,011.00 Step L (6 months)
• Public Benefits Specialist 2: $4,428.00 Step D – $5,398.00 Step L (6 months)
• Public Benefits Specialist 3: $4,882.00 Step E – $5,812.00 Step L

We look forward to welcoming passionate individuals who meet the minimum requirements listed below and are eager to make a difference. As a Public Benefits Specialist, you will help people applying for public assistance services through face‑to‑face interactions and over the phone. You'll determine eligibility for all public assistance programs by conducting interviews, obtaining information from individuals and third parties. You will also process applications received online and process all case actions using the appropriate computer programs.

• Using internal software, learn to process applications for initial and on‑going eligibility determinations for Financial, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, and Medicaid Assistance programs.
• Conduct intensive interviews and independently determine eligibility.
• Gather and review data, applications, and verification for each benefit program as it relates to each person's circumstances.
• 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, as well as answer questions regarding benefits or available services to clients.

A career in public service can be demanding yet rewarding. Your customers come from diverse backgrounds and speak many languages. There is a lot to learn, and classroom training is a big part of the beginning. We'll be with you every step of the way.

• Four years in a customer service job where the major duties involved public contact or a job providing staff support in financial eligibility determination such as examining/processing loan applications, medical insurance or rehabilitation claims, or unemployment insurance claims (College education can substitute year‑for‑year for experience).
• One year of equivalent, out‑of‑state experience conducting financial eligibility determination for public assistance to include financial, medical and food benefit programs.

• Thrives in a standardized work setting.
• Is 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.
• Prioritizes and performs multiple tasks in a busy office with numerous interruptions.

• An updated resume.
• Cover letter describing your experience and why you would be a good candidate for the position.
• Three professional references with contact information.

Questions? Email the recruiter at alex.baclaan.gov and reference job number 00881.

Washington State offers a competitive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, a medical flexible spending account, retirement savings through the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System, and other benefits. For a full list, please see the job posting.

Washington State Department of Social and Health Services is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in any area of employment, its programs or services 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, honorably discharged veteran, Vietnam Era, recently separated or other protected veteran status, the presence of any sensory, mental, physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability, equal pay or genetic information.

Persons requiring accommodation in the application process or this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the Recruiter at . Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or