DSHS ESA Public Benefits Specialist 1-3

State of Washington•King County – Kent, WA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Economic Services Administration’s Community Service Division has an exciting entry-level opportunity for a Public Benefits Specialist, with training provided. This full-time position works on-site at our King South Community Services Office in Kent , WA, where you’ll help individuals and families access the benefits and resources they need. If you’re looking for a rewarding career in public service where your compassion and dedication can make a difference in the lives of fellow Washingtonians, this could be a great opportunity to get started. As a Public Benefits Specialist, you will help people applying for public assistance services through face-to-face interactions and over the phone. You'll determine eligibility for all public assistance programs by conducting interviews, obtaining information from individuals and third parties. You will also process applications received online and process all case actions using the appropriate computer programs. Note: This is an in person only position, remote or hybrid is not available. 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.

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

Understands and applies complex technical regulations, policies, and procedures while analyzing individual circumstances and making eligibility determinations objectively.
Communicates effectively with people from diverse backgrounds and in a variety of situations, including de-escalating difficult situations and communicating with individuals who may have communication challenges.
Provides respectful and supportive service to underserved populations while discussing confidential, sensitive, or difficult topics in person and over the phone.
Thrives in a structured and standardized work environment.
Learns and effectively uses a variety of computer programs and systems.
Prioritizes and manages multiple tasks in a busy office environment with frequent interruptions.

Responsibilities

Using internal software, learn to process applications for initial and on-going eligibility determinations for Financial, 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.