DSHS ESA Public Benefits Specialist

Description

Economic Services Administration’s Community Service Division has an exciting entry-level opportunity for a Public Benefits Specialist, with training provided. This full-time position works on-site at our Trent Community Services Office in Spokane Valley, WA, where you’ll help individuals and families access the benefits and resources they need. If you’re looking for a rewarding career in public service where your compassion and dedication can make a difference in the lives of fellow Washingtonians, this could be a great opportunity to get started.

• Using internal software, learn to process applications for initial and on-going eligibility determinations for Financial, Child Care, 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.

We’re looking for dedicated individuals who meet the minimum qualifications below and are eager to make a difference.

• 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). OR
• One year of equivalent, out-of-state experience conducting financial eligibility determination for public assistance to include financial, medical and food benefit programs.

• Understands and applies complex technical regulations, policies, and procedures while analyzing individual circumstances and making eligibility determinations objectively.
• Communicates effectively with people from diverse backgrounds and in a variety of situations, including de-escalating difficult situations and communicating with individuals who may have communication challenges.
• Provides respectful and supportive service to underserved populations while discussing confidential, sensitive, or difficult topics in person and over the phone.
• Thrives in a structured and standardized work environment.
• Learns and effectively uses a variety of computer programs and systems.
• Prioritizes and manages multiple tasks in a busy office environment with frequent interruptions.

Those hired into the Public Benefits Specialist 1-3 training plan with ESA CSD can expect a minimum monthly salary of $4,517 (Range 43, Step G). This salary will increase as the employee successfully progresses in their training. Projected timelines and ranges for this progression are shown below.

• Public Benefits Specialist 1: $4,517.00 Step G – $5,111.00 Step L (6 months)
• Public Benefits Specialist 2: $4,746.00 Step F – $5,506.00 Step L (6 months)
• Public Benefits Specialist 3: $5,240.00 Step G – $5,928.00 Step L

Please reach out to DSHS Recruiter Vincent Hamilton ilton.gov and reference job number #07789.

The Department of Social…