DSHS ESA Public Benefits Specialist 1-3

About the role

The Economic Services Administration, Community Service Division has an exciting entry-level position as a Public Benefits Specialist, with training provided. This role involves working on-site at our Pierce North Community Services Office located in Tacoma. As a Public Benefits Specialist, you will help people applying for public assistance services through face-to-face interactions and over the phone.

Responsibilities

Using internal software, you will process applications for initial and on-going eligibility determinations for Financial, Child Care, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, and Medicaid Assistance programs. You will 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. You will also explain program requirements, application procedures, and verification needs, as well as answer questions regarding benefits or available services to clients.

Requirements

• Four years in a customer service job where the major duties involved public contact or a job providing staff support in financial eligibility determination, or
• One year of equivalent, out-of-state experience conducting financial eligibility determination for public assistance to include financial, medical and food benefit programs.
• College education can substitute year-for-year for experience.

Qualifications

We would like to hire someone who thrives in a standardized work setting, is able to learn and utilize various computer programs, and can communicate effectively with people in diverse or difficult situations. The ideal candidate can work with complex technical regulations and procedures, analyze complex situations, and refrain from personal bias when determining eligibility.

Skills

• Ability to communicate effectively with people in diverse or difficult situations
• Ability to learn and utilize various computer programs
• Ability to work with complex technical regulations and procedures
• Ability to analyze complex situations
• Ability to prioritize and perform multiple tasks in a busy office with numerous interruptions

Benefits

• Eligibility to receive an Orca Card for transportation needs

Pay

The minimum monthly salary is $4,517 (Range 43, Step G), with opportunities for increases as the employee successfully progresses in their training. Projected timelines and ranges for this progression are:

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

Schedule

This is a full-time career opportunity.