DSHS ESA Public Benefits Specialist 3

State of Washington•Pacific County – Other, WA

13h•Onsite

About The Position

DSHS ESA Public Benefits Specialist 1-3 Economic Services Administration (ESA) Community Service Division (CSD) has an exciting entry-level position as a Public Benefits Specialist, with training provided. This role involves working on-site at our community services office located in South Bend, WA. When you work for DSHS's CSD, 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. 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. The Department of Social and Health Services’ (DSHS) vision that people find human services to shape their own lives requires that we come together with a sense of belonging, common purpose, shared values, and meaningful work. It is crucial to our agency’s vision that you bring a fairness, access, and social justice commitment to your work with DSHS. We strive to support all Washingtonians, including Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, people with physical, behavioral health, and intellectual disabilities, elders, LGBTQIA+ individuals, immigrants and refugees, and families building financial security.

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 OR A bachelor's degree OR A combination of years of the above experience and education totaling four years OR One year of years of the above experience and education totaling four years
Thrives in a 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
Will refrain from personal bias when determining eligibility
Is competent to prioritize and perform multiple tasks in a busy office with numerous 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, application and 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, as well as answer questions regarding benefits or available services to clients