DSHS HCLA Public Benefits Specialist 4

State of Washington • Multiple Locations Statewide, WA

10h • Hybrid

About The Position

The Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS), Home and Community Services (HCS) division, is seeking dedicated Public Benefits Specialist 4 professionals to join our statewide team. In this role, you will perform complex eligibility determinations for Long-Term Services and Supports, serving a high-risk population that relies on vital in-home care, assisted living, and nursing facility services. Your expertise will ensure clients receive the benefits and support they need while maintaining strict confidentiality and compliance with state and federal regulations. This position plays a critical role in helping medically and financially vulnerable individuals access essential services that improve their quality of life and promote independence.

Requirements

• Strong knowledge of long-term care programs and public assistance policies, including Medicaid, food assistance, and state-funded services.
• Ability to interpret, analyze, and apply complex rules and data to determine program eligibility and resolve issues.
• Effective communication skills, both verbal and written, to explain program requirements and collaborate with clients, coworkers, and community partners.
• Exceptional customer service and problem-solving abilities, including working with diverse populations and navigating sensitive situations with professionalism and empathy.
• Proficiency with technology and data systems, including ACES, Barcode, and Microsoft Office; ability to learn new systems quickly.
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively in a fast-paced environment with shifting priorities.
• Adaptability and a willingness to learn, especially as it relates to changing policies, procedures, and program requirements.
• One year of experience as a Public Benefits Specialist 3 OR A bachelor’s degree or higher AND one year of experience as a Public Benefits Specialist 2 determining eligibility for public assistance or long-term care services OR Five years of combined higher education and/or equivalent experience may substitute for degree and PBS work experience requirements.
• The five years of combined higher education and/or experience must include at least one year of equivalent work experience.
• 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.

Nice To Haves

• Determining eligibility for services or providing direct customer service to historically marginalized communities
• Reviewing and processing loan applications
• Processing medical insurance or rehabilitation claims
• Evaluating unemployment insurance claims
• Supporting staff in determining financial eligibility
• Analyzing, verifying, and evaluating financial data or information in a professional setting

Responsibilities

• Determine eligibility for long-term care and support services, including in-home care, assisted living, and nursing facilities.
• Work directly with clients, their families, and representatives to gather financial and personal information to assess benefit eligibility.
• Use state systems to enter and review data, calculate income and resources, and ensure accurate and timely benefit processing.
• Coordinate with social workers, case managers, and community agencies to support client care and service planning.
• Review and analyze legal and financial documents like trusts, annuities, and court orders to determine how they affect eligibility.
• Help clients understand available programs and services, answer questions, and make referrals to other agencies as needed.
• Report suspected abuse or fraud and support investigations when necessary.

Benefits

• The Department of Social and Health Services’ (DSHS) vision that people find human services to shape their own 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 vision that you bring an 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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level