DSHS ESA Public Benefits Specialist

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 Newport, WA. When you work for DSHS's CSD, 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.

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.

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

• Using internal software, learn to process applications for initial and ongoing eligibility determinations for Financial, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, and Medicaid Assistance programs.
• Conduct intensive interviews and independently determine eligibility.
• Gather and review data, application and other documents, 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.

We are looking for applicants who have the education and/or experience as listed below:

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Will refrain from personal bias when determining eligibility.
• Is competent to prioritize and perform multiple tasks in a busy office with numerous interruptions.

NOTE: This position starts in training during the first 15 or more months. During this time, the salary range outlined below is the standard salary progression at the completion of each phase in the training period. Hiring supervisors determine the in‑training start level and salary range based on the candidate’s professional work experience and/or educational background.

• Public Benefits Specialist 1 – $4,093.00 Step G to $4,632.00 Step L
• Public Benefits Specialist 2 – $4,299.00 Step D to $5,241.00 Step L
• Public Benefits Specialist 3 – $4,740.00 Step E to $5,643.00 Step L

Ready to start a rewarding career? Apply today!

The Department of Social and Health Services’ vision is that people find human services to shape their own lives. We gather with a sense of belonging, common purpose, shared values, and meaningful work. We are committed to fairness, access, and social justice.

We strive to support all Washingtonians,…