DSHS ESA Public Benefits Specialist 1-3

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 Spokane Trent Community Service Office (CSO). This full‑time career can be a gateway to a rewarding profession in public service. Salary Progression (Training Steps) Public Benefits Specialist 1: $4,428.00 Step G – $5,011.00 Step L (6 months) Public Benefits Specialist 2: $4,653.00 Step F – $5,398.00 Step L (6 months) Public Benefits Specialist 3: $5,137.00 Step G – $5,812.00 Step L Responsibilities 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, 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. Qualifications 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. Thrive in a standardized work setting. Can learn and utilize various computer programs. 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. Work with complex technical regulations and procedures and analyze complex situations. Refrain from personal bias when determining eligibility. Prioritize and perform multiple tasks in a busy office with numerous interruptions. Growth and Support 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. Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history may be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant’s suitability and competence to perform in the job. This announcement may be used to fill multiple vacancies. Employees driving on state business must have a valid driver’s license. Employees driving a privately owned vehicle on state business must have liability insurance on the privately owned vehicle. 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 View phone number on click.appcast.io. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or View phone number on click.appcast.io. E-Verify is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. #J-18808-Ljbffr