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Jobs · Human Resources · Washington

DSHS ESA Public Benefits Specialist 1-3 In Training

Washington State Department of Social and Health Services · Mount Vernon, WA · 2 wk ago
Human ResourcesFull-time

About the role

DSHS ESA Public Benefits Specialist 1-3 (Economic Services Administration, Community Service Division) offers an entry‑level Public Benefits Specialist position with training provided. The role is based on‑site at the community services office in Mount Vernon, WA. Working for DSHS’s CSD lets your compassion show every day as you help fellow Washingtonians access public assistance. This full‑time career can serve as a gateway to a rewarding profession in public service.

Responsibilities

  • Help people applying for public assistance services through face‑to‑face interactions and over the phone.
  • Determine eligibility for all public assistance programs by conducting interviews and obtaining information from individuals and third parties.
  • Process applications received online and process all case actions using the appropriate computer programs.
  • Using internal software, learn 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, other documents, 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 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 (e.g., examining/processing loan applications, medical insurance or rehabilitation claims, or unemployment insurance claims).
  • 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).

Qualifications

  • Thrives in a standardized work setting.
  • Able to learn and utilize various computer programs.
  • Can communicate effectively with people in diverse or difficult situations, including calming others, working with people who have communication challenges, assisting underserved populations, and discussing confidential and unpleasant options, in person and over the phone.
  • Can work with complex technical regulations and procedures, and analyze complex situations.
  • Will refrain from personal bias when determining eligibility.
  • Is competent to prioritize and perform multiple tasks in a busy office with numerous interruptions.

Pay

The position starts in‑training during the first 15 or more months. During this period the salary range outlined below reflects the standard salary progression at the completion of each training phase; hiring supervisors determine the in‑training start level based on the candidate’s professional work experience and/or educational background.

  • Public Benefits Specialist 1: $4,093.00 (Step G) – $4,632.00 (Step L)
  • Public Benefits Specialist 2: $4,299.00 (Step D) – $5,241.00 (Step L)
  • Public Benefits Specialist 3: $4,740.00 (Step E) – $5,643.00 (Step L)

Schedule

Full‑time position.

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