Public Benefits Lead – Eligibility & Case Coaching

State of Washington Dept. of Social and Health Services; Moses Lake (WA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) is hiring a Public Benefits Specialist 4 for the Moses Lake Community Service Office. The PBS4 will audit, coach, train, and guide lower-level specialists, and conduct case audits and observational reviews to ensure program integrity.

The role emphasizes trauma-informed case planning, empathetic client support, and strong knowledge of Washington’s public assistance programs, with routine outreach and monitoring responsibilities.

Qualifications

• Deep knowledge of Washington’s public assistance programs and the ability to assess and re-determine eligibility with accuracy.
• Fluency navigating WAC, RCW, and internal procedural manuals to ensure services are legally sound.
• Ability to design trauma-informed, realistic case plans addressing client barriers and employment goals.
• Strong data interpretation for high-stakes decisions with precision.

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 addressing barriers and employment goals.
• Refer clients to services such as domestic violence support, substance use treatment, mental health counseling, housing, and job training.
• Coordinate with external agencies to align support plans.
• Review and interpret complex documents to determine appropriate program fit.
• Authorize and track supportive services like transportation, childcare, or work clothing.
• Maintain accurate case notes in ACES, Barcode, eJAS, HPF, and other systems.
• Respond to audits, resolve discrepancies, ensure compliance with regulations.
• Participate in outreach, home visits, and client advocacy as needed.

Skills

Eligibility expertise

Policy fluency

Case planning insight

Analytical skills

Communication

Crisis navigation

Resilience and flexibility

Education

Bachelor's degree or higher

Job description

Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) is hiring a Public Benefits Specialist 4 for the Moses Lake Community Service Office. The PBS4 will audit, coach, train, and guide lower-level specialists, and conduct case audits and observational reviews to ensure program integrity.

The role emphasizes trauma-informed case planning, empathetic client support, and strong knowledge of Washington’s public assistance programs, with routine outreach and monitoring responsibilities.