Public Benefits Case Planner & Support Specialist

State of Washington; Renton (WA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

5% premium pay in King County

Free ORCA transit card

Job summary

State of Washington’s Department of Social and Health Services in Renton is seeking a Public Benefits Specialist 4 – Case Planning and Support Specialist (PBS4 CPSS) to lead complex eligibility work and coordinate services. The role emphasizes trauma-informed case planning, cross-agency collaboration, and compassionate client advocacy.

You’ll assess eligibility for cash, food, and medical programs, develop tailored plans, and connect clients to housing, employment, and health services while

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher and twelve months of experience as a Public Benefits Specialist 3.
• Satisfactory completion of Public Benefits Specialist Training Program.
• Out-of-state experience in financial eligibility determination may count toward experience.

Responsibilities

• Conduct detailed interviews to assess eligibility for cash, food, and medical programs.
• Facilitate program orientations and explain benefit pathways clearly and empathetically.
• Design, monitor, and update personalized case plans to address barriers and employment goals.
• Refer clients to services such as domestic violence support, substance use treatment, mental health counselling, housing, and job training.
• Coordinate with external agencies to align support plans.
• Review and interpret complex documents to determine program fit.
• Authorize and track supportive services such as transportation, childcare, or work clothing.
• Maintain accurate case notes in multiple systems (ACES, Barcode, eJAS, HPF, etc.).
• Respond to audits and ensure compliance with federal and state regulations.
• Participate in outreach, home visits, and client advocacy as needed.

Skills

Eligibility knowledge

Policy proficiency

Case planning

Analytical skills

Communication

Crisis navigation

Resilience and flexibility

Education

Bachelor’s degree or higher

Job description

State of Washington’s Department of Social and Health Services in Renton is seeking a Public Benefits Specialist 4 – Case Planning and Support Specialist (PBS4 CPSS) to lead complex eligibility work and coordinate services. The role emphasizes trauma-informed case planning, cross-agency collaboration, and compassionate client advocacy.

You’ll assess eligibility for cash, food, and medical programs, develop tailored plans, and connect clients to housing, employment, and health services while