DSHS ESA Public Benefits Specialist 1-3

Join the Economic Services Administration's Community Service Division as an entry-level Public Benefits Specialist. This on-site role in Sunnyside, WA, offers full-time career opportunities with comprehensive training provided.

About the role

As a Public Benefits Specialist, you will assist individuals applying for public assistance through face-to-face interactions and phone communications. You'll determine eligibility for various programs by conducting interviews, gathering information, and processing applications using internal software.

Responsibilities

• Process applications for initial and ongoing eligibility determinations for Financial, Child Care, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and Medicaid Assistance programs.
• Conduct intensive interviews and independently determine eligibility based on household income and size.
• Gather, review, and verify data, applications, and documentation for each benefit program.
• Process all applications and case actions in accordance with federal and state requirements.
• Explain program requirements, application procedures, verification needs, and answer client questions regarding benefits or available services.

Requirements

• Four years of experience in a customer service role involving public contact or staff support in financial eligibility determination (e.g., processing loan applications, medical insurance claims, 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, including financial, medical, and food benefit programs.

Desired Qualifications

• Ability to thrive in a standardized work setting.
• Capacity to learn and utilize various computer programs.
• Strong communication skills to interact effectively with diverse populations, including those in difficult situations or with communication challenges.
• Ability to work with complex technical regulations and analyze intricate situations without personal bias.
• Skill in prioritizing and managing multiple tasks in a busy office environment with frequent interruptions.

Pay

Starting salary: $4,517 per month (Range 43, Step G). Salary increases with successful progression in the training plan:

• Public Benefits Specialist 1: $4,517.00 (Step G) – $5,111.00 (Step L) over 6 months.
• Public Benefits Specialist 2: $4,746.00 (Step F) – $5,506.00 (Step L) over 6 months.
• Public Benefits Specialist 3: $5,240.00 (Step G) – $5,928.00 (Step L).

Schedule

This is a full-time position.