Description

DSHS ESA Workfirst Program Specialist

The Economic Services Administration, Community Service Division (CSD) is seeking two approachable and mindful individuals for the role of a WorkFirst Program Specialist for the Puyallup CSO currently located in Tacoma, WA.

DSHS, Puyallup CSO fosters an inclusive workplace where diversity and individual differences are valued and leveraged to achieve the DSHS Mission of Transforming Lives and valuing the journey of our staff members. In this role, you will experience the rewarding feeling of being alongside a dedicated team that shares your commitment to success.

Pierce County employees are eligible to receive an Orca Card for transportation needs.
Some of what you'll do:

• Provide a full range of case management services, to clients in their efforts to obtain employment, and reach self-sufficiency
• Conduct orientation for new WorkFirst clients
• Determine client's eligibility/appropriateness for Diversion Services through evaluation of current/potential income and ability to remain self-sufficient
• Develop, revise, monitor and update client Individual Responsibility Plan (IRP)
• Refer and monitor progress of those referrals to other agencies such as: WorkFirst contractors, Community College, Employment security or other Community agencies
• Assess the need, authorize and facilitate appropriate support services
• Review and examine cases on a regular basis to assess customer progress.
• Maintain documentation and proper coding in e-JAS
• Initiate, schedule, facilitate, and/or participate in case staffing
• Conduct interviews to determine eligibility for cash, Basic Food, and Medical benefits for TANF families, document the result in the computer program ACES
• Determine accurate benefit amount by calculating income deductions and assistance unit members using the guidelines of federal and state policies, procedures and laws
• Process reported changes

What we are looking for:

• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing
• Experience multitasking in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to interact with hostile and demanding clients
• Superior organizational skills
• Skilled in communicating with a diverse population
• Knowledge of state and federal welfare reform laws, rules, and regulations

Who should apply?

Professionals with Public Benefits Specialist 3 experience or equivalent experience determining eligibility for social or financial service programs.

How to apply:
Please fill out an application and include:

• A resume
• One page letter of interest
• Three professional references

Questions? Please contact DSHS Recruiter by email and reference job number 01478.

Our Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) mission to Transform 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 mission that you bring equity, anti-racism, and social justice commitment to your work with DSHS. We strive to create greater access and affirming representation of the communities we serve, 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.

NOTE:
Employees of the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 as a condition of employment. Any offer of employment is contingent upon verification of your vaccine status. Please note medical or religious accommodation may be available once an offer of employment is made.

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.

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® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.