DSHS ESA Public Benefits Specialist

DSHS ESA Public Benefits Specialist 1-3

Economic Services Administration, Community Service Division has an exciting opportunity for multiple entry‑level positions as a Public Benefits Specialist with the Customer Service Contact Center (Call Center) team in Yakima, WA. 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.

After successfully completing on‑site training and demonstrating proficiency in the role, the position will transition to full‑time telework.

Those hired into the Public Benefits Specialist 1-3 training plan with ESA CSD can expect a minimum monthly salary of $4,428.00 (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: $4,428.00 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. See why others like you have chosen a career with us.

As a Public Benefits Specialist, you will help people applying for public assistance services through interactions 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).
• OR
• 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 environment 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.

Email the recruiter ilton.gov and…