DSHS ESA Public Benefits Specialist 1-3 In Training
State of Washington, Bay View, Maryland, United States
Overview
DSHS ESA Public Benefits Specialist 1-3. Economic Services Administration Community Service Division has an exciting entry-level position as a Public Benefits Specialist, with training provided. This role involves working on-site at our Kelso Community Services Office (CSO). 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; there will also be a temporary position available to hire as a double-fill. Those hired into the Public Benefits Specialist 1-3 training plan with ESA CSD can expect a minimum monthly salary of $4,428 (Range 43, Step G). This salary will increase as the employee 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 We look forward to welcoming dedicated people who meet the minimum requirements listed below and are eager to make a difference. Responsibilities
As a Public Benefits Specialist, help people applying for public assistance services through face-to-face interactions and over the phone. Determine eligibility for all public assistance programs by conducting interviews and obtaining information from individuals and third parties. Process applications received online and process all case actions using the appropriate computer programs. Using internal software, process applications for initial and ongoing eligibility determinations for Financial, Child Care, 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, procedures, and verification needs, and answer questions regarding benefits or available services to clients. Qualifications
We would like to hire someone who: Has education and/or experience as listed below: Four years in a customer service job where major duties involved public contact or staff support in financial eligibility determination (college education can substitute year-for-year). OR one year of equivalent out-of-state experience conducting financial eligibility determination for public assistance including financial, medical and food benefit programs. Education/Experience options: 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 role involving public contact. I have at least one year of equivalent out-of-state experience conducting financial eligibility determination for public assistance. None of the above applies to me. 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 office with numerous interruptions. Ready to start a rewarding career?
Apply today! The Department of Social and Health Services’ vision that people find human services to shape their own lives requires a sense of belonging, common purpose, shared values, and meaningful work. We strive to support all Washingtonians, including Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, people with disabilities, elders, LGBTQIA+ individuals, immigrants and refugees, and families building financial security. You bring a fairness, access, and social justice commitment to your work with DSHS. Questions? Please contact sharon.sterling@dshs.wa.gov or call Talent Acquisition at (360) 725-5810 and reference project number 01391. Supplemental Information
Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history will be conducted. Information from the background check will be considered in determining the applicant’s suitability and competence. 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 vehicle. 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 identity/expression, marital status, race, creed, color, national origin, religion or beliefs, political affiliation, military status, veteran status, disability, or genetic information. Accommodations for applicants may be requested by contacting the Recruiter. E-Verify is a registered trademark of DHS. More than Just a Paycheck! Employee benefits are not just about services, but also about the cost to you. Washington State offers a competitive benefits package with health and retirement plans, paid leave, and other compensation benefits. Details vary by appointment type; view the job posting for benefits details. Updated 01-07-2026.
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DSHS ESA Public Benefits Specialist 1-3. Economic Services Administration Community Service Division has an exciting entry-level position as a Public Benefits Specialist, with training provided. This role involves working on-site at our Kelso Community Services Office (CSO). 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; there will also be a temporary position available to hire as a double-fill. Those hired into the Public Benefits Specialist 1-3 training plan with ESA CSD can expect a minimum monthly salary of $4,428 (Range 43, Step G). This salary will increase as the employee 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 We look forward to welcoming dedicated people who meet the minimum requirements listed below and are eager to make a difference. Responsibilities
As a Public Benefits Specialist, help people applying for public assistance services through face-to-face interactions and over the phone. Determine eligibility for all public assistance programs by conducting interviews and obtaining information from individuals and third parties. Process applications received online and process all case actions using the appropriate computer programs. Using internal software, process applications for initial and ongoing eligibility determinations for Financial, Child Care, 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, procedures, and verification needs, and answer questions regarding benefits or available services to clients. Qualifications
We would like to hire someone who: Has education and/or experience as listed below: Four years in a customer service job where major duties involved public contact or staff support in financial eligibility determination (college education can substitute year-for-year). OR one year of equivalent out-of-state experience conducting financial eligibility determination for public assistance including financial, medical and food benefit programs. Education/Experience options: 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 role involving public contact. I have at least one year of equivalent out-of-state experience conducting financial eligibility determination for public assistance. None of the above applies to me. 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 office with numerous interruptions. Ready to start a rewarding career?
Apply today! The Department of Social and Health Services’ vision that people find human services to shape their own lives requires a sense of belonging, common purpose, shared values, and meaningful work. We strive to support all Washingtonians, including Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, people with disabilities, elders, LGBTQIA+ individuals, immigrants and refugees, and families building financial security. You bring a fairness, access, and social justice commitment to your work with DSHS. Questions? Please contact sharon.sterling@dshs.wa.gov or call Talent Acquisition at (360) 725-5810 and reference project number 01391. Supplemental Information
Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history will be conducted. Information from the background check will be considered in determining the applicant’s suitability and competence. 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 vehicle. 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 identity/expression, marital status, race, creed, color, national origin, religion or beliefs, political affiliation, military status, veteran status, disability, or genetic information. Accommodations for applicants may be requested by contacting the Recruiter. E-Verify is a registered trademark of DHS. More than Just a Paycheck! Employee benefits are not just about services, but also about the cost to you. Washington State offers a competitive benefits package with health and retirement plans, paid leave, and other compensation benefits. Details vary by appointment type; view the job posting for benefits details. Updated 01-07-2026.
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