What are the responsibilities and job description for the Lobby - Medical Assistance Specialist 3 (MAS3/AHEA) position at Washington State Health Care Authority?
Description
Lobby - Medical Assistance Specialist 3
This is a full-time permanent, in-person position based at our office in Olympia, WA.
All HCA employees are required to be Washington state residents upon their first day of employment.
The Opportunity
Help Washington residents get the health coverage they need. The Medical Eligibility Determination Services (MEDS) office in HCA's Apple Health Eligibility and Access (AHEA) Division is seeking a Medical Assistance Specialist 3 to determine eligibility for Apple Health (Medicaid), the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), and other state-funded medical assistance programs. In this role, you will independently apply federal and state eligibility rules to each household's unique circumstances and serve the public face-to-face in one of HCA's lobby offices, by phone, and in writing.
Key Responsibilities
- Independently determine initial and ongoing eligibility for Medicaid Title XIX, CHIP Title XXI, and other Medicaid and state-funded medical assistance programs administered by MEDS.
- Apply complex federal and state eligibility rules (WAC and RCW) to individual household circumstances to make accurate eligibility decisions and authorize benefits.
- Research and resolve complex eligibility issues with a high degree of independence.
- Use multiple interconnected systems, including the Automated Client Eligibility System (ACES), Washington Healthplanfinder, ProviderOne, and the Document Management System (DMS).
- Interview clients, providers, and third parties by phone, in person, and in writing to gather the documentation and verification needed to support eligibility.
- Provide direct, face-to-face customer support to the public in one of HCA's lobby offices.
- Partner with advocates, providers, the Health Benefit Exchange, other state agencies, and community-based organizations to answer questions, resolve disputes, and coordinate referrals.
- Support Take Charge family planning providers with eligibility questions and take part in process improvement efforts that streamline MEDS operations.
Why You’ll Love This Role
- You'll make a direct difference for individuals and families by connecting them to the health coverage they need.
- You'll build deep expertise in Medicaid eligibility, a skill set that opens doors across HCA and public service.
- You'll join a collaborative team that invests in ongoing training and values your ideas for improving how the work gets done.
- You'll work a predictable Monday through Friday schedule in a role where every day brings new people to help.
What You Bring
You are patient, steady, and genuinely enjoy helping people, even in difficult conversations. You handle challenging interactions with tact and diplomacy, and you build positive working relationships with clients, their advocates, and your coworkers. You are detail-oriented and self-directed, take pride in getting things right, and stay organized when the work gets busy. You are eager to keep learning and look for ways to make processes work better for the people we serve.
Required Qualifications
Experience may have been gained through paid or unpaid activities. Please ensure any relevant experience defined below is outlined in your cover letter, resume, and application.
- Demonstrated ability to interpret and apply regulations, policies, and procedures.
- Independent Analysis and Determination: Demonstrated ability to independently research, analyze, and evaluate complex information to make accurate determinations and resolve program-related issues within established authority.
- Complex Problem Resolution: Demonstrated ability to identify, analyze, and resolve complex issues.
- Technical Research and Interpretation: Demonstrated ability to research and interpret complex program rules, regulations, policies, procedures, and other authoritative information and appropriately apply findings to individual circumstances.
- Customer and Partner Consultation: Demonstrated experience providing accurate technical information, consultation, and assistance to customers, providers, members, and other partners regarding complex issues and requirements.
- Professional Communication: Demonstrated ability to communicate complex or technical information clearly, accurately, and professionally, both verbally and in writing, to individuals with varying levels of program knowledge.
- Quality, Accuracy, and Compliance: Demonstrated ability to independently produce accurate, complete, and timely work while ensuring compliance with applicable laws, regulations, policies, procedures, and established program standards.
- Workload and Priority Management: Demonstrated ability to independently organize and prioritize complex assignments, manage competing demands, meet established timelines, and exercise sound judgment with limited supervisory direction.
Required Competencies
- Equity lens – All HCA employees are required to consider equity in their decisions, processes, and day-to-day work, including how their work may affect the people and communities we serve.
- The ability to take action to learn and grow – You take action to learn and grow by seeking new perspectives, learning from experiences, and using what you’ve learned to continuously improve how you work and serve others.
- The ability to take action to meet the needs of others – You take action to meet the needs of others by listening, understanding different perspectives, and responding with care, respect, and solutions that support the people of the communities we serve.
Preferred Qualifications
While these are not required, having them may help you stand out as an applicant.
- Demonstrated ability to resolve conflicts with customers in person, professionally and effectively, while maintaining positive working relationships.
- Demonstrated ability to effectively use Microsoft Office applications, including Outlook, Word, and SharePoint, to support business operations and communication.
- Experience as a Medical Assistance Specialist 2 or Medical Assistance Specialist 3.
- Demonstrated ability to apply knowledge of Medicaid programs and eligibility requirements when performing assigned work.
- Demonstrated ability to effectively use Microsoft Office applications, including Outlook, Word, and SharePoint, to support business operations and communication.
- A bachelor's degree in a related field.
- Demonstrated professional experience providing direct client services or counseling of customers in the areas of health insurance, disability, or other related health benefits; public assistance eligibility determination; health insurance premiums/claims processing, adjusting, and investigation; or other medical premiums/claims/eligibility-related experience; or experience researching and analyzing complex rules, regulations, and policies to make determinations and resolve problems while providing direct customer service.
About the Apple Health Eligibility and Access (AHEA) Division
The Apple Health Eligibility and Access (AHEA) Division works across the Health Care Authority and in partnership with the health care community at the local, state, and federal levels to develop and manage high-quality, evidence-based health care programs and purchase services that enhance Washington residents' ability to access appropriate, quality health care.
Supplemental Information
About the Washington State Health Care Authority
Better Health. Better Care. A Healthier Washington.
At HCA, we work to ensure people across Washington have the opportunity to be as healthy as possible. As the State’s largest health care purchaser and behavioral health authority, HCA serves nearly 3 million Washington residents through Apple Health (Medicaid), Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) and School Employees Benefits Board (SEBB) programs, and behavioral health services. Through this work, HCA purchases and coordinates care coverage, supports behavioral health prevention, treatment, crisis response, and recovery and helps strengthen access to high-quality care across Washington.
More than a benefits package: We want our employees to have the support, flexibility, and benefits they need to do their best work and build a career that works for their life. As a Washington State HCA employee, you’ll have access to a comprehensive benefits package that supports your health, financial well-being, and work-life balance. Our benefits are designed to support you today while helping you plan for the future. Learn more about why HCA by visiting the Voices of HCA and the "Who we are" section of our website.
Your total compensation is more than your paycheck:
- Remote work and flexible schedules
- Medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance
- Paid vacation, sick leave, and 12 paid holidays
- Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML)
- Retirement options to plan for the future
- Training and professional development opportunities
- Employee wellness programs
- Learn more about Washington State Employee Benefits
Work Location and Schedule
This is a full-time 40-hour-per-week in-person position based at our office located in Olympia, WA. Our standard business hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with alternative work schedules considered based on business needs. Work will be conducted in a shared space, open office environment. In this role you’ll regularly collaborate with colleagues, agency leaders, state and federal partners, and other external partners or customers. Occasional travel may be required for meetings, training, or other business needs. All employees are required to report to our Olympia office on their first and final day of employment.
Our commitment to an inclusive workplace: The Health Care Authority is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating a workplace where employees are respected, included, and supported in bringing their experiences, perspectives, and ideas to work. Our commitment to inclusion is reflected in how we work together and serve the people of Washington. HCA also supports five voluntary employee led Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), which create opportunities for connection, community, learning, and professional growth.
Application Directions
To be considered, you must complete the online application in full and submit all required materials. Incomplete applications or applications missing required materials will not be considered. When completing your application, please include the following required materials:
- Cover letter: describing your qualifications for this specific position
- Resume: that details your applicable experience and education.
- Three (3) professional references: References must be entered directly into the designated references section of your application. We require 3 professional references including at least one current or recent supervisor.
We encourage you to apply! If you meet the required qualifications for this position, we want to hear from you. Desired qualifications describe additional experience, knowledge or skills that may be helpful in the role, but they are not required to be considered for the position. We welcome applicants with different backgrounds, experiences, identities, and perspectives.
Veterans
We value the experience and skill veterans bring to the workforce and encourage veterans, transitioning service members, and military spouses to apply. Eligible veterans may qualify for veterans’ preference in accordance with Washington State Law. If you are claiming veterans’ preference, you must attach your applicable DD-214 documentation to your application. Please redact your social security number, date of birth, and any other sensitive information before uploading and attaching the document.
Union Representation
This position is covered by the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE). Once the position(s) is(are) filled, this recruitment announcement may also be used to fill additional position(s) for up to sixty (60) days.
Need accommodations or have questions? If you have questions, need assistance with the application process, require an accommodation, or would like to request this posting in an alternative format, please contact Lisa Fleming, Human Resource Consultant (Recruiter) at HCAjobs@hca.wa.gov and reference the recruitment title and job number in the subject line.
Technical Support: Reach out to NEOGOV directly at 1-855-524-5627 for technical support and login issues.
The Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) is an E-Verify employer. All applicants with a legal right to work in the United States are encouraged to apply.
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More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.
The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.
Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.
Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.
Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.
Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.
Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.
Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.
Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
As provided in WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.
Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.
Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.
Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.
Additional Leave
Leave Sharing
Parental Leave
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 01-07-2026
Salary : $48,048 - $64,512