Public Benefits Specialist IV - Case Planning & Support

State of Washington Dept. of Social and Health Services; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 84,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

5% premium pay

ORCA transportation card

Job summary

State of Washington Dept. of Social and Health Services is seeking a PBS4 Case Planning and Support Specialist in Seattle to guide clients through public benefits.

You will assess eligibility, develop tailored case plans, and coordinate with healthcare, housing, and employment partners to connect clients with the right services. You’ll navigate complex policy, maintain compassionate communication, and adapt to shifting priorities while delivering trauma-informed, client-centered support in a

Qualifications

• Deep knowledge of Washington’s public assistance programs and ability to assess and re-determine eligibility.
• Fluent with Washington Administrative Code (WAC), RCW, and internal manuals.
• Experience designing trauma-informed, client-centered service plans.
• Ability to interpret complex data for high-stakes decisions.
• Strong, empathetic communication especially with distressed clients.
• Ability to stay calm and maintain boundaries in challenging situations.
• Adaptable to shifting priorities and multiple tasks.

Responsibilities

• Conduct detailed interviews to determine eligibility for public assistance.
• Facilitate program orientations and explain benefit pathways clearly.
• Design, monitor, and update personalized case plans addressing barriers.
• Refer clients to services like housing, health, and job training.
• Coordinate with external agencies to align support plans.
• Review documents to determine appropriate program fit.
• Authorize and track supportive services such as transportation and childcare.
• Maintain accurate case notes across systems (ACES, Barcode, eJAS, HPF).
• Respond to case audits and ensure compliance with regulations.
• Participate in outreach, home visits, and client advocacy as needed.

Skills

Eligibility expertise

Policy fluency

Case planning

Analytical skills

Clear communication

Crisis navigation

Resilience & flexibility

Education

Bachelor's degree or higher

12 months PBS2 experience

5 years education/experience substitute

Job description

State of Washington Dept. of Social and Health Services is seeking a PBS4 Case Planning and Support Specialist in Seattle to guide clients through public benefits.

You will assess eligibility, develop tailored case plans, and coordinate with healthcare, housing, and employment partners to connect clients with the right services. You’ll navigate complex policy, maintain compassionate communication, and adapt to shifting priorities while delivering trauma-informed, client-centered support in a