DSHS ESA Public Benefits Specialist 1-3

State of Washington•King County - Seattle - Central Area, WA

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Economic Services Administration's (ESA) Community Service Division (CSD) has an exciting entry-level position as a Public Benefits Specialist, with training provided. This role involves working for our Customer Service Contact Center (CSCC) located in Seattle, WA (with the opportunity to work remotely from home after successfully completing training). When you work for us, your compassion shows at work every day, helping the lives of your fellow Washingtonians. This full-time career can be a gateway to a rewarding profession in public service. Those hired into the Public Benefits Specialist 1-3 training plan with ESA CSD can expect a minimum monthly salary of $4,428 (Range 43, Step G). This salary will increase as the employee successfully progresses in their training. Projected timelines and ranges for this progression are shown below. Please note: These positions have been assigned approval to work a flexible/hybrid schedule based on business needs. Currently, the expectation is that for the first phase of training (at least 30 days) the successful applicant will be in office, and after that stage they can gradually work a hybrid schedule working to increase their days teleworking as their training progresses. Salary Progression in Training Steps: Public Benefits Specialist 1 : $4,428.00 Step G – $5,011.00 Step L (6 months) Public Benefits Specialist 2 : $4,653.00 Step F – $5,398.00 Step L (6 months) Public Benefits Specialist 3 : $5,137.00 Step G – $5,812.00 Step L Premium Pay: 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. We look forward to welcoming dedicated people who meet the minimum requirements listed below and are eager to make a difference. See why others like you have chosen a career with us:

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 such as 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 to include financial, medical and food benefit programs.

Nice To Haves

Thrives in a non-standardized work setting.
Is 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.
Refrains from personal bias when determining eligibility.
Prioritizes and performs multiple tasks with numerous interruptions.

Responsibilities

Using internal software, learn to process applications for initial and on-going eligibility determinations for Financial, Child Care, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, and Medicaid Assistance programs.
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.
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, as well as answer questions regarding benefits or available services to clients.