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 within our Statewide Customer Service Contact Center. This hybrid role requires training and on‑site work three days per week during the training period. As a Public Benefits Specialist, you will assist applicants by determining eligibility for public assistance programs through phone interviews, obtaining necessary information, and processing applications received online. Responsibilities Use internal software 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, and answer client questions. Qualifications Four years in a customer service position with public contact duties or staff support in financial eligibility determination (loan, medical insurance, rehabilitation, unemployment claims) OR college education can substitute year‑for‑year for experience. 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. Ability to learn and utilize various computer programs. Excellent communication skills, including calming others, working with diverse or difficult situations, addressing underserved populations, and discussing confidential options over the phone or in person. Ability to 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 and Benefits Salary ranges from $4,428 to $5,812 per month, with progression outlined in the training steps below. A minimum monthly salary of $4,428 (Step G) is paid as the entry level. 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 E – $5,812.00 Step L Equal Employment Opportunity The Washington State Department of Social and Health Services is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate 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, veteran status, sensory or mental disability, physical disability, the use of a trained dog guide or service animal, 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr