DSHS ESA Public Benefits Specialist 1-3
State of Washington, Bay View, Maryland, United States
DSHS ESA Public Benefits Specialist 1-3
Economic Services Administration, Community Service Division has an exciting opportunity for multiple entry‑level positions as a Public Benefits Specialist with the Customer Service Contact Center (Call Center) team in Yakima, WA. When you work for us, 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. After successfully completing on‑site training and demonstrating proficiency in the role, the position will transition to full‑time telework.
Salary Progression In Training Steps Those hired into the Public Benefits Specialist 1-3 training plan with ESA CSD can expect a minimum monthly salary of $4,428.00 (Range 43, Step G). This salary will increase as the employee successfully progresses in their training. Projected timelines and ranges for this progression 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
Requirements We look forward to welcoming passionate individuals who meet the minimum requirements listed below and are eager to make a difference. See why others like you have chosen a career with us.
As a Public Benefits Specialist, you will help people applying for public assistance services through interactions 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.
Some Of What You Will Do
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.
How You'll Grow A career in public service can be demanding yet rewarding. Your customers come from diverse backgrounds and speak many languages. There is a lot to learn, and classroom training is a big part of the beginning. We'll be with you every step of the way.
Education/Experience 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).
OR
One year of equivalent, out-of-state experience conducting financial eligibility determination for public assistance to include financial, medical and food benefit programs.
We Would Like To Hire Someone Who
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.
Refrains from personal bias when determining eligibility.
Prioritizes and performs multiple tasks in a busy environment with numerous interruptions.
Interested? Application Requirements
An updated resume.
Cover letter describing your experience and why you would be a good candidate for the position.
Three professional references with contact information.
Questions? Email the recruiter at vincent.hamilton@dshs.wa.gov and reference job number 01160.
About DSHS The Department of Social and Health Services’ 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.
Supplemental Information Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history may be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant’s suitability and competence to perform in the job. This announcement may be used to fill multiple vacancies. Employees driving on state business must have a valid driver's license. Employees driving a privately owned vehicle on state business must have liability insurance on the privately owned vehicle.
Equal Employment Opportunity Washington State Department of Social and Health Services is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in any area of employment, its programs or services on the basis of age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity/expression, marital status, race, creed, color, national origin, religion or beliefs, political affiliation, military status, honorably discharged veteran, Vietnam Era, recently separated or other protected veteran status, the presence of any sensory, mental, physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability, equal pay or genetic information. Persons requiring accommodation in the application process or this job announcement in 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.
E-Verify® E-Verify® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
More than Just a Paycheck! Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
Read About Our Benefits The following information describes typical benefits available for full‑time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full‑time work (e.g. part‑time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full‑time. Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance Benefits Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax‑deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long‑term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre‑tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.
The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well‑being of employees.
Retirement And Deferred Compensation State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees’ Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre‑tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Social Security All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness If you are employed by a government or not‑for‑profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Holidays Full‑time and part‑time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.
Sick Leave Full‑time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full‑time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.
Sick leave accruals for part‑time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full‑time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
Vacation (Annual Leave) Full‑time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full‑time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.
Part‑time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro‑rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full‑time employment.
Military Leave Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.
Bereavement Leave Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.
Additional Leave Leave Sharing Parental Leave Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) Leave Without Pay Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Where did you learn about this job with DSHS ESA?
Careers.wa.gov
DSHS Employee
Community Service Office or other DSHS Lobby
Friend/family member
Social Media
Job Fair or Resource Fair
Virtual Open House or Information Session
WorkSource job advertisement or referral
College Campus Career or Internship Center
Physical job flyer
Local non‑profit
Other
Education or experience
I have a bachelor's degree or higher.
I have a combination of four or more years of education and/or experience examining/processing loan applications, medical insurance or rehabilitation claims, unemployment insurance claims or in a customer service job where the major duties involve public contact, or a job providing staff support in financial eligibility determination.
I have at least one year of equivalent out‑of‑state experience conducting financial eligibility determination for public assistance to include financial, medical and food assistance programs.
None of the above applies to me.
Client Services Experience Client services are provided by phone throughout Monday – Friday, and timely services are vital to this role. Please describe the type of customer service experience and duration you have in the following areas: unemployment insurance, social service programs, financial loans, benefit programs, insurance claims, medical claims, or debt recovery. Please include where you did this type of work.
Required Question
Updated 01-07-2026
01
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Salary Progression In Training Steps Those hired into the Public Benefits Specialist 1-3 training plan with ESA CSD can expect a minimum monthly salary of $4,428.00 (Range 43, Step G). This salary will increase as the employee successfully progresses in their training. Projected timelines and ranges for this progression 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
Requirements We look forward to welcoming passionate individuals who meet the minimum requirements listed below and are eager to make a difference. See why others like you have chosen a career with us.
As a Public Benefits Specialist, you will help people applying for public assistance services through interactions 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.
Some Of What You Will Do
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.
How You'll Grow A career in public service can be demanding yet rewarding. Your customers come from diverse backgrounds and speak many languages. There is a lot to learn, and classroom training is a big part of the beginning. We'll be with you every step of the way.
Education/Experience 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).
OR
One year of equivalent, out-of-state experience conducting financial eligibility determination for public assistance to include financial, medical and food benefit programs.
We Would Like To Hire Someone Who
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.
Refrains from personal bias when determining eligibility.
Prioritizes and performs multiple tasks in a busy environment with numerous interruptions.
Interested? Application Requirements
An updated resume.
Cover letter describing your experience and why you would be a good candidate for the position.
Three professional references with contact information.
Questions? Email the recruiter at vincent.hamilton@dshs.wa.gov and reference job number 01160.
About DSHS The Department of Social and Health Services’ 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.
Supplemental Information Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history may be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant’s suitability and competence to perform in the job. This announcement may be used to fill multiple vacancies. Employees driving on state business must have a valid driver's license. Employees driving a privately owned vehicle on state business must have liability insurance on the privately owned vehicle.
Equal Employment Opportunity Washington State Department of Social and Health Services is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in any area of employment, its programs or services on the basis of age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity/expression, marital status, race, creed, color, national origin, religion or beliefs, political affiliation, military status, honorably discharged veteran, Vietnam Era, recently separated or other protected veteran status, the presence of any sensory, mental, physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability, equal pay or genetic information. Persons requiring accommodation in the application process or this job announcement in 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.
E-Verify® E-Verify® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
More than Just a Paycheck! Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
Read About Our Benefits The following information describes typical benefits available for full‑time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full‑time work (e.g. part‑time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full‑time. Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance Benefits Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax‑deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long‑term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre‑tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.
The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well‑being of employees.
Retirement And Deferred Compensation State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees’ Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre‑tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Social Security All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness If you are employed by a government or not‑for‑profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Holidays Full‑time and part‑time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.
Sick Leave Full‑time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full‑time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.
Sick leave accruals for part‑time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full‑time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
Vacation (Annual Leave) Full‑time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full‑time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.
Part‑time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro‑rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full‑time employment.
Military Leave Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.
Bereavement Leave Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.
Additional Leave Leave Sharing Parental Leave Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) Leave Without Pay Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Where did you learn about this job with DSHS ESA?
Careers.wa.gov
DSHS Employee
Community Service Office or other DSHS Lobby
Friend/family member
Social Media
Job Fair or Resource Fair
Virtual Open House or Information Session
WorkSource job advertisement or referral
College Campus Career or Internship Center
Physical job flyer
Local non‑profit
Other
Education or experience
I have a bachelor's degree or higher.
I have a combination of four or more years of education and/or experience examining/processing loan applications, medical insurance or rehabilitation claims, unemployment insurance claims or in a customer service job where the major duties involve public contact, or a job providing staff support in financial eligibility determination.
I have at least one year of equivalent out‑of‑state experience conducting financial eligibility determination for public assistance to include financial, medical and food assistance programs.
None of the above applies to me.
Client Services Experience Client services are provided by phone throughout Monday – Friday, and timely services are vital to this role. Please describe the type of customer service experience and duration you have in the following areas: unemployment insurance, social service programs, financial loans, benefit programs, insurance claims, medical claims, or debt recovery. Please include where you did this type of work.
Required Question
Updated 01-07-2026
01
#J-18808-Ljbffr