DSHS ESA Quality Control Specialist

DSHS ESA Quality Control Specialist DSHS Economic Services Administration (ESA) Division of Program Integrity is seeking a Quality Control Specialist to join the Integrity Assurance Team in Lakewood, WA. This role offers the opportunity to contribute to a mission-driven team committed to strengthening the accuracy, accountability, and overall integrity of Washington’s public assistance programs. DSHS Economic Services Administration (ESA) Division of Program Integrity is providing a role that includes administrative hearing functional support. This work aims to meet Federal and State requirements while limiting the risk of increased Federal sanctions, improper payments, and protecting the financial securities of Washingtonians in need. Our division focuses on quality control through case reviews, operational audits, and ongoing monitoring to drive continuous improvement and prevent fraud, ensuring that we maintain high standards of program accuracy and integrity. In this role, you’ll also conduct federally mandated independent reviews of government public assistance programs including, but not limited to, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), and Medical programs. You will utilize your strong analysis and communication skills to obtain information, verify evidence, and document and report findings, with an emphasis on a systematic approach toward program integrity. As a Quality Control Specialist, you’ll play a key role in our mission to reduce the number of individuals and families living below the federal poverty level, helping to eliminate disparities and promote equitable access to support services. This position offers a hybrid office/telework schedule, blending in-office work with telework. Some of what you'll do: Independently evaluate and analyze case information to ensure accurate benefit issuance, eligibility determinations, and program participation Evaluate and analyze case information including pertinent program policies, procedures, manuals, and training material to determine the potential root cause of errors Input and retrieve data across multiple automated systems while maintaining confidentiality of all sensitive information Monitor and assess program operations using various administrative tools and software, including Barcode, ACES, EBT Edge, and Microsoft Office Suite Prepares and presents the Department’s position on cases scheduled by the Office of Administrative Hearings Represent the division professionally with internal and external partners and stakeholders Identify, prepare, and assemble documents as exhibits for administrative hearings Analyze complex data and patterns to address improper payments, leading to overpayment recoveries and potential fraud referrals What we're looking for: Experience in determining eligibility for food, cash, and medical public assistance programs Proficiency in interpreting state and federal regulations related to public assistance programs Strong interpersonal and communication skills for effective representation of the division with stakeholders, partners, and customers Strong oral and written communication skills, including the ability to multi-task, manage with interruptions, and prioritize work assignments to meet timelines Excellent critical thinking skills, with the ability to present information and ideas clearly and effectively Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to work independently and manage deadlines Adaptability in a dynamic and evolving work environment Ability to work cooperatively and professionally with partners and stakeholders within DPI and external agencies Proficiency in ESA eligibility software, Microsoft Office Suite, and the ability to learn new software as required Who should apply? Professionals with a Bachelor’s degree and at least one of the following, with one year of experience in Washington State: Two years as a Financial Services Specialist/Public Benefits Specialist at levels 3, 4, or 5 Two years as a WorkFirst Program Specialist or WorkFirst Program Supervisor OR An equivalent combination of education and experience. Relevant experience in determining eligibility for public assistance programs may substitute for education on a year-for-year basis. Qualifying experience must be obtained in a Community Services Office, Welfare Office, or Public Assistance Office, with one year being in Washington state. Interested? Complete the application and attach the following: Resume A brief letter of interest (one page) specifically addressing the knowledge, skills, and experience you have related to the job and duties Questions? Please reach out to View email address on click.appcast.io or call Talent Acquisition main line View phone number on click.appcast.io and reference job number 06889. The Department of Social and Health Services' (DSHS) vision that people find human services to shape their own lives requires that we come together with a sense of belonging, common purpose, shared values, and meaningful work. It is crucial to our agency’s vision that you bring a fairness, access, and social justice commitment to your work with DSHS. 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 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. Relationship and Reporting Structure (NEPOTISM) Disclosure: If you are selected for hire, you must disclose whether you have a relative, household member, close friend, or romantic partner within your potential supervisory chain of command. DSHS has a Relationships and the Reporting Structure policy that prohibits nepotism and can be reviewed here. Applicants whose appointment would result in a prohibited reporting relationship are not eligible for appointment to that position. E-Verify is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. #J-18808-Ljbffr State of Washington Dept. of Social and Health Services