Medical Assistance Specialist 4 (MAS4/AHSO) - Internal Only

Medical Assistance Specialist 4 (MAS4/AHSO) - Internal Only

Salary

$52,872.00 - $71,136.00 Annually

Location

Thurston County - Lacey, WA

Job Type

Agency Internal - Permanent

Remote Employment

Remote Optional

Job Number

2026-06122

Department

Health Care Authority

Division

AHSO

Opening Date

07/22/2026

Closing Date

7/29/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

Salary Information

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

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Description

Medical Assistance Specialist 4 (MAS4/AHSO) - Internal Only

This recruitment will be used to fill multiple positions.

The Medical Assistance Specialist 4 serves as a lead worker supporting Washington State residents in accessing Medicaid, CHIP, and other state-funded programs, bringing expertise in eligibility policy to their team. This role combines conducting hands-on eligibility determinations with training, auditing, and workflow oversight responsibilities.

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 Apple Health Services and Operations (AHSO) Division works across the HCA and in partnership with the health care community at local, state and federal levels, in order to develop, and manage high quality, and evidence-based health care programs and purchase services that enhance Washington State's citizens' ability to access appropriate, quality health care.

About the position:

In a call center environment this position serves as a designated Team Lead worker, as well as staffing the Lead Queue for all MAS3 staff. This position assists line staff, trainers, and management by serving as a subject matter expert - resolving complex client and provider concerns. Escalates urgent client access to care issues, and complex Provider billing, program, policy, and payment concerns to other agency technical and program and policy staff for resolution. Uses all Health Care Authority (HCA) designated reference material, process documents in the MACSC and Lead worker Knowledge Base and references the agency's Client and Provider based web pages, the ProviderOne Billing and Medical Program Guides, and relevant RCWs and WACs that govern agency policies and procedures. Acts as a liaison between HCA and Apple Health Managed Care case management staff on behalf of Apple Health clients with urgent and emergent access to care issues. This position requires proficiency in the use of ProviderOne, SIEBEL, ACES Online, Point of Sale and Avaya applications. Uses the ProviderOne Help Ticket application, and Health Care Authority program email posts to escalate client and provider concerns to HCA's technical and policy management as needed to resolve complex issues.

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:

• This position is on the team which will be the first assigned when additional special projects that require customer service support are called upon.
• Independently analyzes client eligibility, and makes timely, accurate decisions to assist clients in determining services they qualify for based on their eligibility for Apple Health.
• Counsels and advise clients on scope of care and clients' rights and responsibilities.
• Resolves questions, complaints and problems about eligibility, accessibility to services, enrollment and other insurance coverage.
• Uses information, questions, and complaints from clients and client advocates to enhance program policy and procedures.
• Provides appropriate consultation to medical providers in order to expedite the reimbursement for title XIX claims submitted to the Health Care Authority for payment.
• Evaluates medical claims for correct adjudication, counsels providers on appropriate billing procedures.
• Researches and identifies workflow and system problems, recommends and implements new/revised procedures.
• Provides second level training for newly released staff trained on client and/or provider Medical Assistance Center skills, processes and procedures.
• Establishes and maintains an effective relationship with Apple Health Medicaid program and policy management to assist providers in solving complex billing concerns.
• Assists with special project assignments as needed to further develop and make modifications to Knowledge base policies and procedures. Provides instruction, assistance, and training to new employees on screening calls, program eligibility, and scope of care and clients' rights.
• As the lead worker, identifies training requirements, develops Lead and line staff training plans, and assists with training newly hired Medical Assistance Specialists staff.

Qualifications

Required qualifications:

Qualified candidates will satisfy one of the following options:

Option 1:

• Bachelor's degree and
• Two (2) years of experience as defined below

Option 2:

• Associate degree and
• Four (4) years of experience as defined below

Option 3:

• Six (6) years of experience as defined below

Option 4:

• One (1) year of experience as a Medical Assistance Specialist 3

Qualifying experience includes the following:

• 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;
• Other medical premiums/claims related experience.

Required competencies:

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

Preferred qualifications:

• ACES, HealthPlanFinder, MVP, Provider One and/or Barcode/DMS experience.

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.

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter to receive a list of new job postings at HCA.

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

I acknowledge that this opportunity is only open to internal HCA candidates.

• Yes
• No

02

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

• Yes
• No

03

This posting is being used to fill 2 positions, please select the positions you are interested in below:

• This position functions as the float for this section and will be the first pulled to work on special projects and is located on team 1 in MACSC.
• This position is the lead for team 9 in MACSC.
• I am interested in being considered for both positions.

04

Do you have one (1) or more years of experience as a Medical Assistance Specialist 3?

• Yes
• No

05

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

• High school graduation or equivalent
• Associate degree
• Bachelors degree
• Masters degree or higher
• None of the above

06

Which of the following best describes your professional work experience in any or a combination of the following?: • 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. • Other medical premiums/claims/eligibility related experience. • Experience researching and analyzing complex rules, regulations, or policies and utilizing research and analysis to make determinations, solve problems, or complete work while providing direct customer service either in person or on the telephone.

• 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

07

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

• Yes
• No

08

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

• Yes
• No

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