Lead Public Benefits Specialist & Team Coach

Washington State Department of Social and Health Services; Port Townsend (WA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

Washington State Department of Social and Health Services in Port Townsend, WA is seeking a Public Benefits Specialist 4, Lead Worker to guide a team of PBS staff in processing cash, medical, and food benefits. You will assign work, audit performance, coach staff, and handle complex eligibility tasks, including overpayments and referrals to Financial Recovery.

The role requires extensive knowledge of WAC, strong computer skills, and the ability to manage multiple cases with high accuracy.

Qualifications

• Extensive knowledge of the Washington Administrative Code (WAC) and manuals to determine eligibility.
• Proficient with the Community Service Division computer programs.
• Ability to review data in state computer systems for accurate decisions.
• Strong emphasis on respectful public service and documentation integrity.
• Experience planning multiple financial cases with timely completion.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of Public Benefits Specialists in processing cash, medical, and food benefits.
• Assign work, audit performance, and coach staff on best practices.
• Establish financial eligibility and interpret rules for complex cases.
• Verify overpayments and refer to the Office of Financial Recovery.
• Develop procedures, reports, and workflow improvements.
• Engage with staff, agencies, and the community to clarify information.
• Review cases for accuracy and analyze case actions.

Skills

WAC knowledge

Computer systems proficiency

Auditing and quality assurance

Team supervision

Eligibility analysis

Customer service

Case management

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree or higher + 12 months PBS2 experience

5 years combined higher ed / experience substitution

Job description

Washington State Department of Social and Health Services in Port Townsend, WA is seeking a Public Benefits Specialist 4, Lead Worker to guide a team of PBS staff in processing cash, medical, and food benefits. You will assign work, audit performance, coach staff, and handle complex eligibility tasks, including overpayments and referrals to Financial Recovery.

The role requires extensive knowledge of WAC, strong computer skills, and the ability to manage multiple cases with high accuracy.