ES Benefit Specialist 2: Insurance Services (In-Training)
State of Washington
Salary : $49,428.00 - $73,284.00 Annually
Location : Thurston County - Olympia, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number: 2026-03899
Department: Employment Security Department
Division: Unemployment Insurance
Opening Date: 05/18/2026
Closing Date: 5/25/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
Description
The Employment Security Department (ESD) has ten (10) openings for customer-focused, detail-oriented professionals to serve as an ES Benefits Specialist 2 on our Customer Care Team. The ideal candidates are patient, empathetic, and solutions driven. They communicate clearly, navigate complex rules with confidence, and thrive in a fast-paced environment where accuracy and service matter. They need the ability to build trust with customers, collaborate effectively with teammates, and approach each interaction with professionalism and respect. The ideal candidates are committed to equity, able to manage high-volume workloads, and skilled at translating technical requirements into clear, helpful guidance.
The candidate will have critical thinking skills, insightful ability for decision-making, can work independently, in a group setting, and/or a virtual environment, while being comfortable with evolving technology. They will be able to adapt to varying directives, have keen attention to detail, and will be able to maintain professionalism while handling sensitive and confidential information. Duties
As an ES Benefits Specialist 2, you will be a key member of the Operations Team and one of the primary voices of the Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) program. You will help Washington workers and employers understand their rights and responsibilities, process benefit claims, and ensure customers receive timely, accurate information. Your work directly supports ESD's mission to provide economic stability and peace of mind during life's most challenging moments. In this role, you will adjudicate Paid Family Medical Leave benefit claims, review documentation for eligibility, and guide customers through program requirements. You will respond to a high volume of inquiries from claimants, employers, healthcare providers, and representatives-providing clear explanations, resolving issues, and escalating concerns when appropriate. You will ensure compliance with RCW, WAC, and agency policies while delivering exceptional service to diverse customers, including those with limited English proficiency. Some of what you will do:
To request a detailed position description for the goal class (ESBS2) and in-training plan, click here. Qualifications
Required: Option 1: Four (4) years of equivalent experience. Option 2: One (1) year as an ES Benefits Technician, AND Three (3) years of additional relevant experience. Option 3: One (1) year of experience equivalent to the ES Benefits Technician with another state that administers insurance benefits programs, AND Three (3) years of additional relevant experience.
Option 4: Associate's Degree in a health or social science, public administration or a related field, AND Two (2) years of the required experience below. Option 5: Bachelor's Degree in a health or social science, public administration or a related field,
Required Equity Competencies:
Additional Requirement of Employment:
Please submit only the required documents as noted below and ensure all Personal Identifying Information (PII) such as Social Security numbers etc. are edited out of your materials for privacy. Additionally, we ask that you not include photographs or external links within your documents. Any documents uploaded through this platform will be securely transmitted electronically to support application review.
Please submit your Cover Letter and Resume with your through the "Add Attachments" field. A resume will not substitute for the "work experience" section of the application or vice versa. Applications with blank fields, or supplemental question responses with comments such as "see attachments" may be considered incomplete. Supplemental Information
Why work with us? Our agency's mission and values drive every decision that we make, determine how we interact with others and are at the core of who we are. We value Access, Love, Belonging, Equity, and Stewardship. We understand that a work environment that respects your work/life balance is key; that's why many of our positions are eligible for flexible work schedules and teleworking opportunities. Through support, value, and trust, our employees are empowered to grow and develop into their best self.
Opportunity for All We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, ethnic, racial, religious, sexual orientation, and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, people with disabilities, people over 40 years of age, people with religious beliefs, veterans or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply.
The Employment Security Department is an equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.
If you are a person needing assistance in the application process, if you need this job announcement in an alternate format, or if you have general questions about this opportunity, please contact Katie Swanson , View phone number on click.appcast.io or the Talent Acquisition Team , or Washington Relay Service 711 prior to the recruitment closing . If you are having technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application, please contact View email address on click.appcast.io or View phone number on click.appcast.io or toll free View phone number on click.appcast.io, Washington Relay 711.
**This Organization Participates in E-Verify**
More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation. We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs. Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time. Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state. Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts. To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs. Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses. Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction. The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees. Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site. Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options. Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system. Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year. Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information. Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.
Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave. Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.
Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday. Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave. Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday. As provided in , an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.
Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave. Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year. Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave. Additional Leave
Leave Sharing Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits. Updated 01-07-2026
01
I understand that to be considered for this position I must include a resume and letter of interest with this applicant packet.
02
Are you a current or former State of Washington employee?
03
If you answered "yes" to the question above, please indicate which state agency(ies) you have worked for. If this does not apply to you, type N/A.
04
Please describe your experience with the following required skills and abilities, to include how many of years you have of each type of experience and where it was obtained: Claims Processing and Adjudication: Skill in processing and adjudicating claims.Documentation and Verification: Ability to document and verify benefit requests.Fact-Finding and Advising: Ability to gather facts and advise on rights and responsibilities.Legal Compliance and Decision Making: Ability to make decisions based on laws and policies.Program Knowledge and Communication: Ability to explain program requirements and services.Problem Resolution and Communication: Skill in resolving issues and communicating outcomes.Adaptability, Versatility and Task Management: Ability to perform various tasks as needed including those of lower-level positions.
05
What is your approach to ensure that diversity, equity and inclusion is a priority in working in social service programs, customer service and with your peers?
06
How did you hear about this career opportunity (select all that apply)?
07
If you selected "Other", please tell us how you learned about this job opportunity.If this does not apply to you, type N/A.
Required Question
Location : Thurston County - Olympia, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number: 2026-03899
Department: Employment Security Department
Division: Unemployment Insurance
Opening Date: 05/18/2026
Closing Date: 5/25/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
Description
The Employment Security Department (ESD) has ten (10) openings for customer-focused, detail-oriented professionals to serve as an ES Benefits Specialist 2 on our Customer Care Team. The ideal candidates are patient, empathetic, and solutions driven. They communicate clearly, navigate complex rules with confidence, and thrive in a fast-paced environment where accuracy and service matter. They need the ability to build trust with customers, collaborate effectively with teammates, and approach each interaction with professionalism and respect. The ideal candidates are committed to equity, able to manage high-volume workloads, and skilled at translating technical requirements into clear, helpful guidance.
The candidate will have critical thinking skills, insightful ability for decision-making, can work independently, in a group setting, and/or a virtual environment, while being comfortable with evolving technology. They will be able to adapt to varying directives, have keen attention to detail, and will be able to maintain professionalism while handling sensitive and confidential information. Duties
As an ES Benefits Specialist 2, you will be a key member of the Operations Team and one of the primary voices of the Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) program. You will help Washington workers and employers understand their rights and responsibilities, process benefit claims, and ensure customers receive timely, accurate information. Your work directly supports ESD's mission to provide economic stability and peace of mind during life's most challenging moments. In this role, you will adjudicate Paid Family Medical Leave benefit claims, review documentation for eligibility, and guide customers through program requirements. You will respond to a high volume of inquiries from claimants, employers, healthcare providers, and representatives-providing clear explanations, resolving issues, and escalating concerns when appropriate. You will ensure compliance with RCW, WAC, and agency policies while delivering exceptional service to diverse customers, including those with limited English proficiency. Some of what you will do:
- Process and adjudicate routine and complex Paid Family Medical Leave claims in accordance with RCW, WAC, and agency policies
- Provide high-quality customer service through phone, email, and secure messaging, managing large volumes of inbound and outbound communication
- Identify customer needs, research issues, and deliver accurate, timely solutions
- Review wage information, identity verification materials, and medical certifications to determine benefit eligibility
- Conduct fact-finding and request additional documentation when needed to make legally sound determinations
- Ensure customers with limited English proficiency receive translated correspondence and due process through certified interpreters
- Resolve monetary and non-monetary redeterminations and process weekly claims, including corrections or adjustments
- Report potential underpayments, overpayments, and suspected fraud in accordance with compliance requirements
- Assist employers with Paid Family Medical Leave premium reporting, registration, and program questions
- Respond to inquiries from claimants, employers, healthcare providers, and other stakeholders regarding program requirements and case-specific issues
To request a detailed position description for the goal class (ESBS2) and in-training plan, click here. Qualifications
Required: Option 1: Four (4) years of equivalent experience. Option 2: One (1) year as an ES Benefits Technician, AND Three (3) years of additional relevant experience. Option 3: One (1) year of experience equivalent to the ES Benefits Technician with another state that administers insurance benefits programs, AND Three (3) years of additional relevant experience.
Option 4: Associate's Degree in a health or social science, public administration or a related field, AND Two (2) years of the required experience below. Option 5: Bachelor's Degree in a health or social science, public administration or a related field,
Required Equity Competencies:
- The ability to take action to learn and grow.
- The ability to take action to meet the needs of others.
- Claims Processing and Adjudication: Skill in processing and adjudicating claims.
- Documentation and Verification: Ability to document and verify benefit requests.
- Fact-Finding and Advising: Ability to gather facts and advise on rights and responsibilities.
- Legal Compliance and Decision Making: Ability to make decisions based on laws and policies.
- Program Knowledge and Communication: Ability to explain program requirements and services.
- Problem Resolution and Communication: Skill in resolving issues and communicating outcomes.
- Adaptability, Versatility and Task Management: Ability to perform various tasks as needed including those of lower-level positions.
Additional Requirement of Employment:
- Must be able to pass Unemployment Insurance (UI) & Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) claim and fraud check.
Please submit only the required documents as noted below and ensure all Personal Identifying Information (PII) such as Social Security numbers etc. are edited out of your materials for privacy. Additionally, we ask that you not include photographs or external links within your documents. Any documents uploaded through this platform will be securely transmitted electronically to support application review.
Please submit your Cover Letter and Resume with your through the "Add Attachments" field. A resume will not substitute for the "work experience" section of the application or vice versa. Applications with blank fields, or supplemental question responses with comments such as "see attachments" may be considered incomplete. Supplemental Information
Why work with us? Our agency's mission and values drive every decision that we make, determine how we interact with others and are at the core of who we are. We value Access, Love, Belonging, Equity, and Stewardship. We understand that a work environment that respects your work/life balance is key; that's why many of our positions are eligible for flexible work schedules and teleworking opportunities. Through support, value, and trust, our employees are empowered to grow and develop into their best self.
Opportunity for All We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, ethnic, racial, religious, sexual orientation, and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, people with disabilities, people over 40 years of age, people with religious beliefs, veterans or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply.
The Employment Security Department is an equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.
If you are a person needing assistance in the application process, if you need this job announcement in an alternate format, or if you have general questions about this opportunity, please contact Katie Swanson , View phone number on click.appcast.io or the Talent Acquisition Team , or Washington Relay Service 711 prior to the recruitment closing . If you are having technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application, please contact View email address on click.appcast.io or View phone number on click.appcast.io or toll free View phone number on click.appcast.io, Washington Relay 711.
**This Organization Participates in E-Verify**
More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation. We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs. Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time. Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state. Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts. To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs. Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses. Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction. The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees. Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site. Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options. Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system. Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year. Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information. Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.
Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave. Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.
Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday. Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave. Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday. As provided in , an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.
Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave. Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year. Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave. Additional Leave
Leave Sharing Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits. Updated 01-07-2026
01
I understand that to be considered for this position I must include a resume and letter of interest with this applicant packet.
- Yes
- No
02
Are you a current or former State of Washington employee?
- Yes
- No
03
If you answered "yes" to the question above, please indicate which state agency(ies) you have worked for. If this does not apply to you, type N/A.
04
Please describe your experience with the following required skills and abilities, to include how many of years you have of each type of experience and where it was obtained: Claims Processing and Adjudication: Skill in processing and adjudicating claims.Documentation and Verification: Ability to document and verify benefit requests.Fact-Finding and Advising: Ability to gather facts and advise on rights and responsibilities.Legal Compliance and Decision Making: Ability to make decisions based on laws and policies.Program Knowledge and Communication: Ability to explain program requirements and services.Problem Resolution and Communication: Skill in resolving issues and communicating outcomes.Adaptability, Versatility and Task Management: Ability to perform various tasks as needed including those of lower-level positions.
05
What is your approach to ensure that diversity, equity and inclusion is a priority in working in social service programs, customer service and with your peers?
06
How did you hear about this career opportunity (select all that apply)?
- Washington State's career website:
- Washington State WorkSource Center or website (WorkSourceWA.com)
- Washington State employee
- Employment Security Department's job web page:
- Monster
- College/university career fair or website
- VERG
- Diversity.com
- Handshake
- Other
07
If you selected "Other", please tell us how you learned about this job opportunity.If this does not apply to you, type N/A.
Required Question
Vacancy posted more than 2 months ago
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