DSHS ESA Public Benefits Specialist 4

About the role

The Economic Services Administration (ESA), Community Services Division, is seeking a Public Benefit Specialist 4 (PBS4) to join our team in Renton, WA. This position works full-time in the Renton Community Services Office (CSO), providing hands-on support and leadership to staff and clients.

Responsibilities

• Assign work to Public Benefits Specialist staff who process cash, medical, and/or food benefits.
• Perform more complex duties in relation to establishing financial eligibility, rule interpretation, planning, and procedural development.
• Verify and establish overpayments and complete referrals to the Office of Financial Recovery.
• Audit and review the work of Public Benefits Specialist staff.
• Establish reports and recommendations to supervisor surrounding staff progress.
• Detect error trends through audits to identify training needs.
• Serve as a job coach for staff.
• Maintain and review procedures for efficient workflow.
• Review cases and independently analyze case actions for accuracy.
• Engage with staff, agencies, and the community to clarify information and support clients throughout their application process.

Requirements

• Possess extensive knowledge of the Washington Administrative Code (WAC) and procedural manuals needed to determine eligibility for all programs administered by CSD.
• Proficiently utilize all computer programs in use by the Community Service Division.
• Frequently review data found in the State’s computer systems to make accurate decisions.
• Interact with all DSHS staff and serve the public with respect, concern, courtesy, and responsiveness.
• Independently plan and manage multiple financial cases or projects to be completed within specified timelines.
• Stay calm under pressure, and effectively manage the stress of the job.
• Work effectively in a fast-paced environment, and be able to demonstrate flexibility in completing multiple assignments while meeting performance standards.

Qualifications

• 12 months of experience as a Public Benefits Specialist 3.
• A bachelor’s degree or higher AND twelve months of experience as a Public Benefits Specialist 2 determining eligibility for public assistance or long-term care services.
• 5 years of combined higher education and/or equivalent experience may substitute for degree and PBS work experience requirements.

Skills

• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Knowledge of Medicaid, SNAP, TANF, and other public benefit programs.

Benefits

• King County employees receive 5% premium pay in addition to the advertised salary and are eligible to receive a free ORCA card for transportation use.
• Choice of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training, and other compensation benefits.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility.
• Holidays, sick leave, vacation (annual leave), and personal leave.

Pay

The salary range for this position is $50,000 - $60,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications.

Schedule

This is a full-time position working 40 hours per week.