DSHS HCLA Public Benefits Specialist

DSHS HCLA – Public Benefits Specialist 4

Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS), Home and Community Services (HCS) division, is seeking a dedicated Public Benefits Specialist 4 professional to join our team in Spokane, WA. 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.

• 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 such as 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.

• 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.

We’re looking for professionals who meet one of the following qualifications:

• One year of experience as a Public Benefits Specialist 3
• 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
• Five years of combined higher education and/or equivalent experience may substitute for degree and PBS work experience requirements.

* Equivalent experience:
The 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

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

• An updated resume
• Three professional references with contact information

Please reach out to DSHS Recruiter Ricky Luna a.gov and reference job number #09245.

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,…