Job Description

DescriptionPublic Benefits Specialist 4(ESA) has an exciting opportunity for a Public Benefits Specialist to join our team in our Walla Walla Community Service Office. When you work for DSHS's CSD, your compassion shows at work every day, helping the lives of your fellow Washingtonians.The Public Benefits Specialist 4 (PBS4) serves as lead worker and is expected to possess a high level of proficiency in all public benefit programs. The position is responsible to audit, coach, train and guide lower level Public Benefits Specialists. Also performs case audits/reviews and observational audits.This position will have access to the Washington Health Plan Finder (HPF) system and personally identifiable information (PII). Per the Information Exchange Agreement No. 2013-02 between the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and State-Based Exchanges for the disclosure of health insurance affordability programs information under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, passing a criminal background check is required for this position. See why others like you have chosen a career with DSHS:Some of what you will do:

• Assigns work to Public Benefits Specialist staff who process cash, medical, and/or food benefits
• Audits/reviews work of Public Benefits Specialist staff. Conducts ongoing audits for new and experienced staff. Establishes reports and recommendations to supervisor on staff progress
• Detects error trends through audits to identify training needs
• Serves as a job coach for staff
• Maintains and reviews procedures for efficient workflow
• Performs more complex duties in relation to establishing financial eligibility, rule interpretation, planning, and procedural development
• Verifies and establishes overpayments and completes referrals to the Office of Financial Recovery
• Reviews cases and independently analyzes case actions for accuracy. Contacts staff, agencies and the community as necessary for clarifying information
• Uses basic understanding of the administrative hearing process to review cases and to help decide if a hearing request can be settled prior to submission and assures appropriate action is taken
• Assists customers with the process of applying for Apple Healthcare by entering information into the Health Plan Finder (HPF) system on behalf of the clients

• Investigates and resolves customer complaints. Reviews and coordinates resolution of case errors. Identifies and reports performance gaps. Works independently or with others to identify and carry out creative solutions to performance issues
• Conduct intensive interviews when necessary to determine eligibility for financial, Medical and/or food assistance benefits. Responsible for interviewing, reviewing documents, and assisting with financial processes. Receive and respond to different types of inquires including Medical applications and reviews, information and referral requests, general questions, case specific questions and Change of Circumstance Notifications
• Answer all questions regarding benefits or available services. Explain program requirements, application procedures, and verification needs. Refer clients to both mandatory and optional services and to other agencies as required. Assess emergent and special needs and make referrals to other programs and community resources as appropriate. If unable to answer question(s), will refer the client to a source that can provide needed information
• Determine eligibility for expedited services
• Obtain and review necessary data, documentation and verification for Federal or State assistance as it relates to the individual's specific circumstance. Attempt to verify reported changes via phone contact to the appropriate party i.e. landlord, employer etc.
• Process all case actions in accordance with Federal and State processing and accuracy requirements
• Analyze oral and written information to determine accurate benefits and continued program eligibility. Enter all cases actions into the appropriate computer programs (ACES, ACES Online, Barcode, E-JAS, ICMS)
• Educate stakeholders on public benefit programs and eligibility requirements

What we're looking for:

• Possess extensive knowledge of the Washington Administrative Code (WAC) and procedural manuals needed to determine eligibility for all programs administered by CSD
• Proficiently utilize all computer programs in use by the Community Service Division
• Frequently review data found in the State's computer systems to make accurate decisions
• Interact with all DSHS staff and serve the public with respect, concern, courtesy and responsiveness
• Independently plan and manage multiple financial cases or projects to be completed within specified timelines
• Stay calm under pressure, and effectively manage the stress of the job.
• Work effectively in a fast-paced environment and be able to demonstrate flexibility in completing multiple assignments while meeting performance standards.

Apply today!Who Should Apply?Professionals with:A Bachelor's degree or Master's degree and twelve months of experience as a Public Benefits Specialist 3.OrA Bachelor's degree or higher and twelve months of experience as a Public Benefits Specialist 2 determine eligibility for long-term care services.Equivalent Education/Experience: Experience examining/processing loan applications, medical insurance or rehabilitation claims, unemployment insurance claims, or a job providing staff support in financial eligibility determination, or in a job analyzing, verifying, and evaluating financial data and information, will substitute year for year, for education and experience;And Satisfactory completion of the agency's Public Benefits Specialist Training Program.Out-of-state experience conducting financial eligibility determination for public assistance including financial, medical, and food benefit programs will be considered experience.Questions?Please contact OR call the main Talent Acquisition line at 360-725-5810 and reference 12643. 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) 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-Verifyxc2xae is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security

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