Entry-Level Public Benefits Eligibility Specialist

State of Washington; Lakewood (WA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 57,000; Full time

Job summary

State of Washington's DSHS ESA Public Benefits Specialist 1-3 in Lakewood invites entry-level professionals to join our Economic Services Administration. You'll learn on the job, determine eligibility for public assistance, interview clients, and process applications using state systems.

This full-time role offers training, a structured career progression from specialist 1 to 3, and comprehensive benefits. Candidates should have strong communication, dedication to public service, and ability to

Qualifications

• Four+ years in a customer service role with public contact
• Experience in financial eligibility determinations preferred
• Ability to learn computer programs and explain program requirements
• Strong communication with diverse clients and handling sensitive information

Responsibilities

• Use internal software to determine initial and ongoing eligibility for Financial, Child Care, SNAP, and Medicaid programs
• Conduct intensive interviews and independently determine eligibility
• Gather and review data, applications and verifications for each program
• Process applications and case actions per federal/state requirements based on household income/size
• Explain program requirements and verification needs to clients and answer questions

Skills

Customer service

Interviewing

Communication

Multitasking

Calm under pressure

Job description

State of Washington's DSHS ESA Public Benefits Specialist 1-3 in Lakewood invites entry-level professionals to join our Economic Services Administration. You'll learn on the job, determine eligibility for public assistance, interview clients, and process applications using state systems.

This full-time role offers training, a structured career progression from specialist 1 to 3, and comprehensive benefits. Candidates should have strong communication, dedication to public service, and ability to