DSNP Program Specialist (HCPS/MPD)

DSNP Program Specialist (HCPS/MPD)

Salary

$69,348.00 - $93,288.00 Annually

Location

Thurston County - Olympia, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Remote Optional

Job Number

2026-06591

Department

Health Care Authority

Division

MPD

Opening Date

08/06/2026

Closing Date

8/20/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

Salary Information

The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Description

DSNP Program Specialist (HCPS/MPD)

71115035

Someone would want this job if they are passionate about healthcare policy, Medicare-Medicaid integration, and making a tangible impact on vulnerable populations. You would directly shape and improve healthcare access for "dually eligible" individuals (those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid) in Washington state. Providing consultative expertise to top-level managers, state agencies, and Managed Care Organizations (MCOs), directly supporting the Washington State Health Care Authoritys mission. Help develop Agency policy, monitor compliance with federal guidelines (like the Affordable Care Act and mental health parity), and bridge the gap between physical and behavioral health services.

All HCA employees will apply an equity lens to their work, which may include but is not limited to all analyses of core business and processes.

About the division:

The mission of the Medicaid Programs Division (MPD) within the Health Care Authority (HCA) is to provide high quality administrative services to assist in the purchase and delivery of medical assistance program services to clients and members. MPD works across the agency and in partnership with the health care community and community stakeholders to develop and manage high-quality, evidence-based health care programs and purchase services that enhance Medicaid clients' ability to access appropriate, quality health care. This supports the mission of providing quality services that enhance our clients' ability to obtain and access health care.

About the position:

This position reports to the SDPO Unit Supervisor in the Strategic Design and Program Oversight section and will provide contract management assistance for our Dual Eligible Special Needs plans and work toward Advancing Medicaid and Medicare Integration. This position provides consultative expertise on this program to top level managers within the Health Care Authority and to other state agency staff, Managed Care Organizations, Contracted Leads, and community providers. This position supports HCA's mission by leading a program that is innovative in its array of services and in the authorizing environment, by utilizing existing approvals and integration of Highly Integrated Special Needs plans and coordination with Medicaid Managed Care Organizations.

This position is eligible to telework and is typically not required to report on-site. The default assigned work location of all Health Care Authority (HCA) positions - both on-site and telework eligible positions - is within the State of Washington. This position reports to Olympia, WA. Frequency of onsite work will vary based on business and operational needs. All agency employees are required to report on-site in Olympia on their first and last days of employment to pick up and return state-issued equipment, regardless of telework status or location.

Duties

Some of what you will do:

• Collaborates with the Agency subject matter expert of one or more SMACs to ensure high quality and coordinated health care services.
• Collaborates with Agency subject matter expert for the development of Medicare Policy, oversight, and federal compliance of Medicare Advantage Plans contracted for the Dual Special Needs Program (DSNP).
• Assists SMEs in analyzing and evaluating Medicare policy and monitoring protocols established by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and State Guidelines and State Contract Terms, and provides oversight and monitoring of MA Health Plan and;
• Assists in developing Agency Policy for Medicare clients using drafts the annual SMAC in accordance with Agency policy and recommends changes consistent with Federal guidance and Agency Directive.
• Collaborates with SMEs in reviewing State and Federal guidance, legislation, and Health Care Advisory Commissions and recommends options for Leadership then promulgates, and implements policy changes to improve access to health care services for dual eligible enrollees advancing Medicare and Medicaid integration;
• Collaborate with DSHS on policies and initiatives regarding Dual Eligible population to advance the integration Medicare and Medicaid
• Works with subject matter experts to ensure Apple Health managed care plans and MA Health Plans are in compliance with Affordable Care Act provisions related to mental health parity for Medicaid enrollees.
• Assists in preparing comprehensive, long-range plans relating to health care program objectives of coordinating Behavioral health between MA Plans and BHSOs.

Qualifications

Required qualifications:

Qualifying candidates will meet one of the following criteria options:

Option 1:

• A bachelor's degree from an accredited college with a major study in public health, public administration, business administration, social work or closely related field.
• Five (5) years supervisory or consultative experience in health services, social service, Medicare programs, Medicaid programs or social security disability programs.

Option 2:

• Nine (9) years supervisory or consultative experience in health services, social service, Medicare programs, Medicaid programs or social security disability programs.

Option 3:

• One (1) year as a Medical Assistance Program Specialist 2.

Required competencies:

• The ability to take action to learn and grow.
• The ability to take action to meet the needs of others.

Preferred qualifications:

• 4 years' experience working with managed care operations, delivery systems, customer service activities and policy issues to ensure provision of high-quality care to Medical Assistance enrollees.
• Two (2) years' experience in program development, implementation and evaluation of Medicare.
• Project management, including team facilitation and process improvement methods.
• Four (4) years of experience working with diverse client populations with chronic illness, especially clients with behavioral health issues; including cultural competency in working with an ethnically diverse population.
• Knowledge of the structure and function of the various sub-divisions of the Health Care Authority and the Department of Social and Health Services, including experience in cross system collaboration, team building and aligning internal and external resources in support of program development to ensure the delivery of quality healthcare services to high-risk clients.
• Two (2) years' experience in participating in and facilitating meetings and task forces involving internal.
• One (1) year of experience in operating the ProviderOne MMIS system and related data and information systems.
• Experience in data analysis and clear communication of complex data analysis results for multiple audiences.
• Ability to analyze data related to contract performance and other issues relating to managed care contracts.

Competencies:

• State and federal managed care and related laws (e.g., HIPAA) laws, policies, regulations and procedures on Medicaid and healthcare both within and outside HCA.
• Medicare rules and regulations on eligibility, enrollment, Part C, Part D, Grievance and Appeals, and Quality Performance.
• Familiarity with Care Coordination contract terms and processes.
• Communication skills, including written and oral presentations for a wide variety of audiences, community members, provider groups, clients and client advocates.
• Ability to facilitate timely communication and interchange between diverse groups of internal and external departments, agencies and the public.
• Experience in technical and non-technical report writing for both low-literacy audiences and others, such as executive leadership, internal staff, contractors and interested stakeholders.
• Critical systems thinking skills.

How to apply:

Only candidates who reflect the minimum qualifications on their NEOGOV profile will be considered. Failure to follow the application instructions below may lead to disqualification. To apply for this position, you will need to complete your profile which includes three professional references and attach in separate files:

• A cover letter that specifically addresses how you meet the qualifications for this position
• Current resume

To take advantage of veteran preference, please do the following:

• Attach a copy of your DD214 (Member 4 long-form copy), NGB 22, or USDVA signed verification of service letter.
• Please black out any PII (personally identifiable information) data such as social security numbers. Include your name as it appears on your application in careers.wa.gov.

Supplemental Information

About HCA:

Functioning as both the states largest health care purchaser and its behavioral health authority, the Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) is a leader in ensuring Washington residents have the opportunity to be as healthy as possible.

There are three pillars of our work: Apple Health (Medicaid); the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) and School Employees Benefits Board (SEBB) programs; and behavioral health and recovery. Under these pillars, HCA purchases health care, including behavioral health treatment for more than 2.7 million Washington residents and provides behavioral health prevention, crisis, and recovery supports to all Washington residents.

What we have to offer:

• Meaningful work with friendly co-workers who care about those we serve Voices of HCA
• A clear agency mission that drives our work and is person-centered HCAs Mission, Vision & Values
• A healthy work/life balance, including alternative/flexible schedules and mobile work options.
• A great total compensation and benefit package WA State Government Benefits
• A safe, pleasant workplace in a convenient location with restaurants, and shopping nearby.
• And free parking!

Notes:

Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history will be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment.

HCA is an equal opportunity employer. We value the importance of creating an environment in which all employees can feel respected, included, and empowered to bring unique ideas to the agency. HCA has five employee resource groups (ERGs). ERGs are voluntary, employee-led groups whose aim is to foster a diverse, inclusive workplace aligned with HCA's mission. Our diversity and inclusion efforts include embracing different cultures, backgrounds and viewpoints while fostering growth and advancement in the workplace. Studies have shown women, racial and ethnic minorities, and persons of disability are less likely to apply for jobs unless they feel they meet every qualification as described in a job description. Persons over 40 years of age, disabled and Vietnam era veterans, as well as people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are also encouraged to apply. If you have any questions about the required qualifications or how your experience relates to them, please contact us at HCAjobs@hca.wa.gov. Persons with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may contact Angelic Matthews at Angelic.Matthews@HCA.WA.Gov

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.

E-Verify is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

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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. Thats 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

01

If hired for this position, do you currently possess required documents to allow you to legally work within the United States? The attached link lists acceptable documents: https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents

• Yes
• No

02

Will you require sponsorship for an employment-related immigration benefit, either now or in the future?

• Yes
• No

03

Please select the highest level of education that you have completed:

• High school graduation or equivalent
• Associate degree
• Bachelors degree from an accredited college with a major study in public health, public administration, business administration, social work or closely related field.
• Masters degree or higher from an accredited college with a major study in public health, public administration, business administration, social work or closely related field.
• None of the above

04

Which of the following best describes your professional supervisory or consultative experience in health services, social service, Medicare programs, Medicaid programs or social security disability programs?

• I do not have this experience
• Less than 1 year
• More than 1 year, but less than 3 years
• More than 3 years, but less than 5 years
• More than 5 years, but less than 7 years
• More than 7 years, but less than 9 years
• More than 9 years, but less than 11 years
• More than 11 years

05

Do you have the ability to take action to learn and grow?

• Yes
• No

06

Do you have the ability to take action to meet the needs of others?

• Yes
• No

07

Please select the preferred qualifications you possess from the 9 below:

• 1. 4 years' experience working with managed care operations, delivery systems, customer service activities and policy issues to ensure provision of high-quality care to Medical Assistance enrollees.
• 2. Two (2) years' experience in program development, implementation and evaluation of Medicare.
• 3. Project management, including team facilitation and process improvement methods.
• 4. Four (4) years of experience working with diverse client populations with chronic illness, especially clients with behavioral health issues; including cultural competency in working with an ethnically diverse population.
• 5. Knowledge of the structure and function of the various sub-divisions of the Health Care Authority and the Department of Social and Health Services, including experience in cross system collaboration, team building and aligning internal and external resources in support of program development to ensure the delivery of quality healthcare services to high-risk clients.
• 6. Two (2) years' experience in participating in and facilitating meetings and task forces involving internal.
• 7. One (1) year of experience in operating the ProviderOne MMIS system and related data and information systems.
• 8. Experience in data analysis and clear communication of complex data analysis results for multiple audiences.
• 9. Ability to analyze data related to contract performance and other issues relating to managed care contracts.

Required Question

Employer State of Washington

Address View Job Posting for Agency Information

View Job Posting for Location, Washington, 98504

Website http://www.careers.wa.gov