DSHS ESA Public Benefits Specialist 1-3

DSHS ESA CSD - Public Benefits Specialist 1-3 The Economic Services Administration’s Community Service Division (CSD) is hiring an entry-level Public Benefits Specialist to work in our Statewide Customer Service Contact Center. Training is provided. This hybrid position will have employees working in the office three days per week during the training period. The role is based in the Community Services Office (CSO) in Vancouver, WA. As a Public Benefits Specialist, you will help people apply for public assistance services over the phone, determine eligibility for all public assistance programs by conducting interviews and obtaining information from individuals and third parties, process applications received online, and process all case actions using the appropriate computer programs. Responsibilities Using internal software, process applications for initial and ongoing eligibility determinations for Financial assistance, 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 based on 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, and answer questions regarding benefits or available services to clients. How you'll grow 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. Qualifications We would like to hire someone who: Has four years in a customer service job where the major duties involved public contact or staff support in financial eligibility determination such as examining or processing loan applications, medical insurance, rehabilitation claims, or unemployment insurance claims. (College education can substitute year-for-year for experience). Or has one year of equivalent out-of-state experience conducting financial eligibility determination for public assistance, including 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 office with numerous interruptions. Salary Progression in Training Steps Public Benefits Specialist 1: $4,428 Step G – $5,011 Step L (6 months) Public Benefits Specialist 2: $4,653 Step F – $5,398 Step L (6 months) Public Benefits Specialist 3: $5,137 Step E – $5,812 Step L Those hired into the Public Benefits Specialist 1‑3 training plan with ESA CSD can expect a minimum monthly salary of $4,428, with a salary increase as the employee successfully progresses in training. Projected timelines and ranges for this progression are shown above. The Department of Social and Health Services has a vision that people find human services to shape their own lives. It requires fairness, access, and social justice commitment. We strive to support all Washingtonians, including Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, people with physical, behavioral health, and intellectual disabilities, elders, LGBTQIA+ individuals, immigrants and refugees, and families building financial security. 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. 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. 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