DSHS HCLA Public Benefits Specialist 4 - Washington State Department of Social and Health Services : Job Details

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Description

DSHS HCLA – Public Benefits Specialist 4 In-TrainingThe Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS), Home and Community Services (HCS) division, is hiring multiple Public Benefits Specialist 4 professionals to join our team in Spokane, WA. These positions start at the Public Benefits Specialist 1 level and advance through the in-training plan as outlined below.

DescriptionDSHS HCLA – Public Benefits Specialist 4 In-TrainingThe Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS), Home and Community Services (HCS) division, is hiring multiple Public Benefits Specialist 4 professionals to join our team in Spokane, WA. These positions start at the Public Benefits Specialist 1 level and advance through the in-training plan as outlined below.In-Training PlanThe selected candidates must successfully complete the agency's Public Benefits Specialist (PBS) Training Plan, which includes:

• 6 months as a Public Benefits Specialist 1 (PBS1)
• 12 months as a Public Benefits Specialist 2 (PBS2)
• 6 months in a trial service period as a Public Benefits Specialist 4 (PBS4)

Note: Early progression is possible if the employee demonstrates they have met the training objectives ahead of schedule.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.Some Of What You'll Do

• Determine eligibility for long-term care and support services, including in-home care, assisted living, and nursing facilities.
• Additionally, this is a project employment position under the 1115 Demonstration Waiver. The incumbent will be designated as a primary specialist to determine eligibility for Medicaid Alternative Care (MAC) and Tailored Supports for Older Adults (TSOA) applicants under 1115; and to re-determine client eligibility as necessary through on-going case management for this clientele.
• 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.

What we're looking for:

• 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.

Who should apply?We're looking for professionals who meet one of the following qualifications:

• 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.*

*Equivalent experience:EducationThe five years of combined higher education and/or experience must include at least one year of equivalent work experience. Examples of qualifying experience may include, but are not limited to:

• 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

Additional Information

• Work schedule: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Monday through Friday.

Ready to start a rewarding career? Apply today!Along With Your Application, Please Include

• An updated resume
• Three professional references with contact information

Questions?Please reach out to DSHS Recruiter Ricky Luna at [email protected] and reference job number #05281.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.Supplemental InformationPrior 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) ###-####. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-###-####.E-Verify is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

Seniority level

• Seniority levelAssociate

Employment type

• Employment typeFull-time

Job function

• Job functionHuman Resources
• IndustriesGovernment Administration, Individual and Family Services, and Hospitals and Health Care

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