DSHS ESA Public Benefits Specialist

Overview

DSHS ESA Public Benefits Specialist 1-3
Economic Services Administration, Community Service Division, has an entry-level Public Benefits Specialist position with training provided. The role is on-site at the Alderwood Community Service Office (CSO) in Lynnwood, WA. This full-time career can be a gateway to a rewarding profession in public service.

Description

DSHS ESA Public Benefits Specialist 1-3 is an entry-level position within the Economic Services Administration, Community Service Division, with training provided. The role involves working on-site at the Alderwood CSO in Lynnwood, WA, and supporting Washingtonians with public assistance services. In training, the minimum monthly salary is $4,428.00 (Range 43, Step G), with increases as progression occurs. Projected timelines and ranges are shown below.

• Public Benefits Specialist 1: $4,428.00 Step G – $5,011.00 Step L (6 months)
• Public Benefits Specialist 2: $4,428.00 Step D – $5,398.00 Step L (6 months)
• Public Benefits Specialist 3: $4,882.00 Step E – $5,812.00 Step L

We welcome passionate individuals who meet the minimum requirements and are eager to make a difference. As a Public Benefits Specialist, you will help people applying for public assistance services through face-to-face interactions, determine eligibility for all public assistance programs by interviewing and gathering information from individuals and third parties, and process applications received online and case actions using appropriate computer programs.

• Use internal software to process applications for initial and ongoing eligibility for Financial, SNAP, and Medicaid programs
• Conduct intensive interviews and independently determine eligibility
• Gather and review data, applications, and verification for each benefit program
• Process all applications and case actions per federal and state requirements based on household income and size
• Explain program requirements, procedures, and verification needs; answer questions regarding benefits or services

A career in public service can be demanding yet rewarding. Classroom training is a big part of the beginning, and we will support you every step of the way.

• Four years in a customer service job with public contact or experience supporting financial eligibility determinations (e.g., examining/processing loan applications, medical insurance or rehabilitation claims, unemployment insurance). College education can substitute year-for-year for experience.
• OR one year of equivalent, out-of-state experience conducting financial eligibility determinations for public assistance (financial, medical, and food programs).

• Thrives in a standardized work setting
• Can learn and utilize various computer programs
• Can communicate effectively with people in diverse or difficult situations
• Can work with complex technical regulations and analyze complex situations
• Refrains from personal bias when determining eligibility
• Prioritizes and performs multiple tasks in a busy office with interruptions

Note:

Snohomish County employees are eligible for an Orca Card for transportation needs. Ready to start a rewarding career?
Apply today!

Questions? Email the recruiter sharon.sterling.gov or call Talent Acquisition at  and reference job number 00382.

The Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) vision is to support human services with fairness, access, and social justice for all Washingtonians, including diverse communities and individuals with disabilities. This job description contains the agency’s values and commitment to equality and inclusion.

Prior to a new hire, a background check may be conducted. This announcement may be used to fill multiple vacancies. Employees driving on state business must have a valid driver’s license and, when using a privately owned vehicle, must have liability insurance.

DSHS is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in any area of employment or services. Accommodations in the application process may be requested by contacting the Recruiter at . E-Verify® is a registered trademark of the U.S. DHS.

Benefits overview includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, retirement plans, paid leave, and other programs. Information and details are available in the job posting. Updated 01-07-2026.

Location-specific questions about how candidates learned about the job and education/experience descriptions are collected via surveys and optional questions at the end of the posting.