DSHS ESA Public Benefits Specialist 1-3

About the role

This is an entry-level Public Benefits Specialist position with training provided, located on-site at the Eastern WA Community Services Office in Kennewick. The role is a full-time career opportunity in public service, offering a gateway to a rewarding profession helping fellow Washingtonians.

Pay

Those hired into the Public Benefits Specialist 1-3 training plan can expect a minimum monthly salary of $4,517 (Range 43, Step G). Salary increases as the employee successfully progresses in their training:

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

Responsibilities

• Process applications for initial and ongoing eligibility determinations for Financial, Child Care, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and Medicaid Assistance programs using internal software.
• Conduct intensive interviews and independently determine eligibility for public assistance programs.
• Gather and review data, applications, and verification for each benefit program based on individual circumstances.
• Process all applications and case actions in accordance with federal and state requirements, considering household income and size.
• Explain program requirements, application procedures, and verification needs to clients, and answer questions regarding benefits or available services.
• Assist clients through face-to-face interactions and over the phone.

Requirements

We seek dedicated individuals who meet the following minimum requirements:

• Education/Experience: Four years 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.
• Alternative Experience: One year of equivalent, out-of-state experience conducting financial eligibility determination for public assistance programs, including financial, medical, and food benefit programs.

Desired Skills

• Ability to navigate multiple computer programs and tools accurately.
• Proficiency in applying rules and procedures, even in complex situations.
• Skill in interpreting federal, state, and agency rules to determine appropriate next steps.
• Ability to analyze detailed or confusing information and make sound decisions.
• Provide calm, respectful, and accurate assistance in person, over the phone, and in call-center settings.
• Communicate supportively with individuals in difficult or emotional situations.
• Understand and respect cultural, socioeconomic, and individual differences among clients.
• Manage multiple tasks in a busy office while maintaining accuracy.

Additional Information

• A background check, including criminal record history, may be conducted prior to hiring. Results will be used to assess suitability and competence.
• Employees driving on state business must have a valid driver’s license and, if using a privately owned vehicle, liability insurance.
• This announcement may be used to fill multiple vacancies.
• Selected candidates must disclose any relatives, household members, close friends, or romantic partners within their potential supervisory chain of command (nepotism policy applies).