DSHS ESA Public Benefits Specialist

DSHS ESA Public Benefits Specialist 1-3

Economic Services Administration (ESA) Community Service Division (CSD) is hiring an entry‑level Public Benefits Specialist. The position is based at Harborview Hospital, with 1–2 days on site per week and the remaining days remote or at the Community Service Office. The role involves providing compassionate assistance to Washingtonians, determining eligibility for public assistance programs, and processing applications.

Minimum monthly salary $4,428 (Step G). Salary increases as the employee progresses through training:

• Public Benefits Specialist 1: $4,428 Step G – $5,011 Step L (6 months)
• Public Benefits Specialist 2: $4,428 Step D – $5,398 Step L (6 months)
• Public Benefits Specialist 3: $4,882 Step E – $5,812 Step L

• Four years customer service experience with public contact or staff support in financial eligibility determination (college education may substitute an equivalent year of experience).
  OR
• One year equivalent out‑of‑state experience conducting financial eligibility determination for public assistance (financial, medical, and food benefit programs).

• Thrives in a standardized work setting.
• Can learn and utilize various computer programs.
• Communicates effectively with diverse or difficult populations, providing calming and supportive interactions.
• Can work with complex technical regulations and procedures, and analyze complex situations.
• Refrains from personal bias when determining eligibility.
• Can prioritize and perform multiple tasks in a busy office with numerous interruptions.

• Use internal software to process initial and ongoing eligibility determinations for financial, SNAP, and Medicaid assistance programs.
• Conduct intensive interviews and independently determine eligibility.
• Gather and review data, applications, and other documents, as well as verification for each benefit program.
• 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, and answer questions regarding benefits or available services to clients.

Ready to start a rewarding career? Apply today!

Questions? Please contact Saleen Hernandez nandez.gov (reference #08785).

Washington State Department of Social and Health Services is an equal‑opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, race, creed, color, national origin, religion, political affiliation, veteran status, disability, or the presence of a service animal. Persons requiring accommodation in the application process or an alternative format may contact the recruiter at (360) 725‑5810.

Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through Washington Relay Service by dialing 7‑1‑1 or 1‑800‑833‑6384.

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