DSHS HCLA Intake Specialist (Program Specialist 3) - INTERNAL
About The Position
The Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS), Home and Community Living Administration (HCLA), is hiring an Intake Specialist (Program Specialist 3) for the WA Cares Fund team in Region 2, which covers Snohomish, King, Skagit, and Whatcom counties. The WA Cares Fund provides eligible Washingtonians with access to long-term care benefits. This position is primarily remote and open to internal applicants residing in Region 2, with occasional in-person training and meetings. The Intake Specialist interviews applicants and their representatives, reviews information to determine appropriate long-term care assessment options, coordinates assessment scheduling, and explains program requirements and available resources. The role helps individuals and families make informed care decisions and connects eligible people with services that support independence and quality of life. Employees must successfully complete the required formal training course within one year of appointment.
Requirements
- A bachelor's degree and two years of professional experience in planning, policy analysis, coordination, and consultation with public or private agencies, organizations, or levels of government; or six years of professional or practical experience in those areas.
- Additional qualifying experience may substitute for the required education on a year-for-year basis.
- Successfully complete the required formal training course within one year of appointment.
- Knowledge of aging processes, gerontology, adult services, and effective interviewing techniques.
- Ability to assess social dynamics, identify individual needs, and exercise sound judgment while supporting informed client decisions.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills, including explaining program requirements, assisting with forms, resolving concerns, and communicating professionally with diverse audiences.
- Ability to provide quality customer service, identify appropriate community resources, and connect individuals with services that meet their needs.
- Skill in navigating multiple complex computer systems, maintaining accurate records, and preparing and submitting reports.
- Ability to work independently, manage competing priorities, meet deadlines, and maintain professional focus and objectivity.
- Ability to follow management direction, adapt to change, respect differing perspectives, and collaborate with coworkers, supervisors, community partners, and other stakeholders.
- Must reside in Region 2, covering Snohomish, King, Skagit, and Whatcom counties; the posting is open to internal applicants.
- 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 that vehicle.
Responsibilities
- Review applications and conduct intake screenings by interviewing applicants, family members, and representatives about long-term care needs, medical history, functional limitations, and support systems.
- Review documentation, consult medical and long-term care providers, and determine whether in-person or remote assessment is appropriate.
- Schedule in-person assessments with available assessors, document potential safety concerns, and escalate risks to a supervisor when appropriate.
- Explain WA Cares Fund services and requirements, including functional requirements, the 90-day certification requirement, provider searches and enrollment, benefit amounts, and payment authorization processes.
- Connect individuals with alternative community, state, and federal programs and explain options for continued support after WA Cares Fund benefits are exhausted.
- Maintain accurate program records by entering complete and timely information into applicable systems, preparing reports and correspondence, and providing informational materials and resources.
- Interpret policies for internal and external customers, meet deadlines, adapt to changing priorities, cross-train in assessment functions, and mentor new team members as needed.
Benefits
- King County employees receive 5% premium pay in addition to the advertised salary.
- King County employees are eligible for a free ORCA card for transportation use.
- Snohomish County employees are eligible to receive an ORCA card for transportation needs.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
