Jobs and Careers

DSHS ESA Public Benefits Specialist 1-3

State of Washington

United StatesRemotefull_timeVerifiedPosted 11 Aug 2026

💰 $73,416/yr($47,004/yr – $73,416/yr)

About the role

Posting number: 2026-06540

Department: Dept. of Social and Health Services

Division: ESA

Job classification: PUBLIC BENEFITS SPECIALIST 3

Posting type: Open & Promotional

Categories: Social Sciences, Community and Social Services

Summary

DSHS ESA CSD - Public Benefits Specialist 1-3

The Economic Services Administration's (ESA), Community Service Division (CSD) is hiring an entry-level position as a Public Benefits Specialist within our Statewide Customer Service Contact Center, with training provided.

As a Public Benefits Specialist, you will help people applying for public assistance services 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.

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. We look forward to welcoming dedicated people who meet the minimum requirements listed below and are eager to make a difference.

Please note: This is a hybrid position. During the training period, employees will be required to work in the office three days per week.

See why others like you have chosen a career with us:

 

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.

We're looking for applicants who have the education and/or experience as listed below:

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: