DSHS ESA CSD Public Benefits Specialist

DSHS ESA CSD – Public Benefits Specialist 1-3

The Economic Services Administration’s Community Service Division is hiring entry-level Public Benefits Specialists to work in our Statewide Customer Service Contact Center. Training is provided and the position is located at the Community Services Office in Spokane Valley, WA. The role is full-time and may become a hybrid telework position after training.

• Conduct interviews and determine eligibility for public assistance programs such as Financial, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, and Medicaid.
• Gather, review, and verify data, applications, and documentation for each benefit program.
• Process 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 client questions over the phone and through online systems.

• Four years in a customer service role with direct public contact or experience in financial eligibility determination (e.g., loan, insurance, or unemployment claims). College education may substitute experience on a year‑for‑year basis.
• One year of out‑of‑state experience conducting financial eligibility determinations for public assistance programs.
• Ability to learn and use various computer programs.
• Excellent communication skills with diverse populations, ability to remain calm and professional, and capability to manage confidential or difficult situations.
• Strong analytical skills to work with complex technical regulations and procedures.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a busy office with frequent interruptions.
• Refrains from personal bias when determining eligibility.

• Public Benefits Specialist 1: $4,517.00 – $5,111.00 (Step G to Step L) over 6 months.
• Public Benefits Specialist 2: $4,746.00 – $5,506.00 (Step F to Step L) over 6 months.
• Public Benefits Specialist 3: $4,980.00 – $5,928.00 (Step E to Step L).

The 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 or 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 may contact the recruiter. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may use Washington Relay Service.

Background checks will be conducted for new hires and may include a criminal record history. Information from the background check will be considered in determining suitability for the position.

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