Senior Public Benefits Specialist — Remote WA

Washington State Department of Social and Health Services; Olympia (WA); Remote; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Washington State Department of Social and Health Services is seeking a Public Benefits Specialist 4 (PBS4) to provide expert eligibility consultation and financial guidance to high-risk clients statewide. The role supports the Home & Community Living Administration and may be performed from anywhere in Washington State.

Responsibilities include determining long-term service eligibility, conducting confidential interviews, and coordinating with social workers and medical providers to ensure fair,

Qualifications

• Five years of combined higher education and/or equivalent experience, including at least one year in areas such as eligibility work, customer service supporting historically marginalized communities, loan processing, medical or rehabilitation claims, unemployment insurance claims, or reviewing and verifying financial or program information.
• Experience in hospital, skilled nursing, or long-term care settings where you helped residents, families, or care teams understand services, coverage, or eligibility processes.
• Out-of-state experience conducting financial eligibility determination for public assistance programs (financial, medical, or food benefits), which may count toward the experience requirement.

Responsibilities

• Review information, documents, and client circumstances to determine eligibility for long-term services and supports.
• Conduct confidential interviews with clients, families, representatives, attorneys, and medical providers — in person and by phone.
• Explain program requirements in plain language and help clients understand their options, rights, and next steps.
• Apply state rules, policies, and procedures to make fair, timely, and accurate decisions.
• Review financial and legal documents to understand how they affect eligibility.
• Use multiple computer systems to review information, document decisions, and keep case records accurate and up to date.
• Identify when clients need accommodations or language access and arrange interpreters, accessible formats, or other supports.
• Coordinate with social workers, case managers, medical providers, and community partners to support client needs.
• Manage a caseload by prioritizing tasks, meeting required timelines, and following through on commitments.

Skills

Critical thinking

Clear communication

Active listening

Time management

Multitasking

Microsoft Office

Education

Bachelor's degree or higher

Tools

Case management systems

Job description

Washington State Department of Social and Health Services is seeking a Public Benefits Specialist 4 (PBS4) to provide expert eligibility consultation and financial guidance to high-risk clients statewide. The role supports the Home & Community Living Administration and may be performed from anywhere in Washington State.

Responsibilities include determining long-term service eligibility, conducting confidential interviews, and coordinating with social workers and medical providers to ensure fair,