DSHS ESA Public Benefits Specialist 1-3
About The Position
The Economic Services Administration’s Community Service Division is hiring an entry-level Public Benefits Specialist for its Shelton Community Services Office. This is a full-time, on-site position; remote and hybrid work are not available. Training, including classroom training, is provided. The specialist helps individuals and families access public assistance by providing services face-to-face and over the phone. The role involves determining eligibility for public assistance programs, interviewing applicants, gathering information from individuals and third parties, and processing online applications and case actions using designated computer programs. Eligibility decisions are made in accordance with federal and state requirements and based on household income, size, and individual circumstances. The position serves customers from diverse backgrounds, including people who may speak many languages, and involves discussing confidential, sensitive, or difficult topics. The department emphasizes fairness, access, social justice, and respectful service to Washingtonians.
Requirements
- Four years in a customer service job in which the major duties involved public contact, or in a job providing staff support in financial eligibility determination, such as processing loan applications, medical insurance or rehabilitation claims, or unemployment insurance claims; college education may substitute year-for-year for experience.
- Alternatively, one year of equivalent out-of-state experience conducting financial eligibility determinations for public assistance, including financial, medical, and food benefit programs.
- Valid driver’s license if driving on state business.
- Liability insurance on a privately owned vehicle if using it for state business.
Nice To Haves
- Ability to understand and apply complex technical regulations, policies, and procedures while objectively analyzing individual circumstances and making eligibility determinations.
- Effective communication with people from diverse backgrounds and in varied situations, including de-escalating difficult situations and communicating with individuals who may have communication challenges.
- Ability to provide respectful and supportive service to underserved populations while discussing confidential, sensitive, or difficult topics in person and over the phone.
- Ability to thrive in a structured and standardized work environment.
- Ability to learn and effectively use a variety of computer programs and systems.
- Ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks in a busy office environment with frequent interruptions.
Responsibilities
- Learn to process applications and make initial and ongoing eligibility determinations for financial, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, and Medicaid assistance programs.
- Conduct intensive interviews and independently determine eligibility for public assistance.
- Gather and review data, applications, and verification documents in light of each benefit program and each applicant’s circumstances.
- Process 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.
- Answer clients’ questions about benefits and available services.
- Provide assistance through face-to-face interactions and over the phone.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
