Hybrid Medicaid Navigator & Community Support Specialist

State of Washington; Olympia (WA); Hybrid; USD 34,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

The State of Washington is seeking a Social Service Specialist 2 to support Medicaid applicants and help them stay independently at home. You will perform nursing facility screenings, assist with eligibility, and connect clients to programs like COPES and Medicaid Personal Care.

You will collaborate with tribal partners and Area Agencies on Aging to ensure timely access to services while backing up the Intake Team as needed.

Qualifications

• Requires strong communication, interviewing, and professional written correspondence.
• Experience with social casework theory and practice guiding client decisions.
• Able to manage high volume referrals based on urgency and timelines.
• Understand Medicaid laws for long-term care and apply evidence-based practices.

Responsibilities

• Complete Nursing Facility Level of Care screenings for Medicaid programs.
• Conduct intake interviews and risk assessments by phone or in person.
• Explain Medicaid programs such as Community First Choice, COPES, and Medicaid Personal Care.
• Refer clients to Area Agency on Aging partners.
• Assist clients with benefit applications and mail materials.
• Coordinate with community/tribal partners to connect services.
• Refer to Adult Protective Services or mental health services when needed.
• Prepare and submit documents to meet deadlines and standards.
• Participate in team meetings, trainings, and conferences.

Skills

Communication

Technology

Casework knowledge

Prioritization

Problem solving

Adaptability

Equity & cultural competence

Education

Master’s degree in social services or allied field + 1 year paid social service experience equivalent to Social Service Specialist 1

Bachelor’s degree in social services or allied field + 2 years paid social service experience equivalent to Social Service Specialist 1

5 years total education/experience substitute for degree requirement

Tools

CARE Web system

Job description

The State of Washington is seeking a Social Service Specialist 2 to support Medicaid applicants and help them stay independently at home. You will perform nursing facility screenings, assist with eligibility, and connect clients to programs like COPES and Medicaid Personal Care.

You will collaborate with tribal partners and Area Agencies on Aging to ensure timely access to services while backing up the Intake Team as needed.