WA Cares Benefits Navigator

ABOUT NWRC

Northwest Regional Council (NWRC) is a multi-service agency that covers the Washington counties of Island, San Juan, Skagit and Whatcom, with offices in Bellingham and Mount Vernon, Washington.  NWRC’s slogan: “Human services with you at the center” encapsulates its focus on creating new solutions to navigate the challenges of aging and disability, proactive paths to behavioral health and recovery, and new partnerships between healthcare and social services. We are seeking applicants for WA Cares Benefits Navigator.

JOIN US

NWRC’s values are centered on the concepts of respect, inclusiveness, and striving to foster a healthy work environment for all employees. With these values in mind, we will do our part to support and further diversity, equity, and inclusion not only in our workplace, but in our communities. Toward this goal, we invite candidates from diverse backgrounds and perspectives to apply and help shape the future of NWRC.

WA CARES FUND

The WA Cares Fund is a newly created program in the State of Washington that offers an earned benefit designed to help people access long-term care services when they need them. The WA Cares Fund provides resources to help with daily activities like bathing, eating, moving around and managing medication. Starting July 2026 benefits become available for qualified, eligible individuals under the WA Cares Fund. For more information visit wacaresfund.wa.gov. 

A DAY IN THE LIFE 

The WA Cares Benefits Navigator assists older adults, persons with disabilities, their families and caregivers to access, obtain, and effectively utilize long-term care services and supports through the WA Cares program. This may include conducting intake calls, completing assessments using standardized tools, making functional eligibility determinations, offering options counseling, providing systems assistance, and conducting education and advocacy with or on behalf of the WA Cares beneficiary. This role spends the majority of the time in the field, traveling throughout the NWRC service region of Island, San Juan, Skagit, and Whatcom counties to serve beneficiaries in their home. 

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

10-Step pay range: $31.06 - $40.53 Hourly

NWRC salary ranges are comprised of a 10-Step scale. On their employment anniversary, employees are eligible for an annual pay increase to the next step in the associated salary range, subject to satisfactory performance. In addition to the annual pay increases, NWRC assesses cost of living adjustments (COLA) on an annual basis, subject to Governing Board approval. New employees at NWRC usually start at the first step in the position’s assigned salary range. NWRC may consider a higher step when evaluating the candidate’s experience, training, or proven capability. Internal equity will be reviewed and prioritized when determining a starting pay rate.

As a full-time, permanent, non-exempt role, this position is eligible for the following benefits: 

• 100% Employer paid medical for individual employee plans and up to 95% paid medical for dependent coverage plans, with multiple plan options


• 100% Employer paid Dental and Vision for the employee and eligible dependents with multiple plan options
  


• Washington State Public Employees Retirement System (PERS 2 or PERS 3)


• 100% Employer paid Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for employee & dependents


• Life and Long-term Disability insurance, including voluntary buy-up options


• Vacation Leave, accrued at 8hrs/month & increasing with longevity


• Sick Leave, accrued at 8hrs/month


• 13 Paid Holidays Annually


• 3 Paid Wellness Days Annually


• Voluntary Flex Spending Plans for health and/or child/elder care


• Voluntary Deferred Compensation Program


• Alternative Work Schedules


• Hybrid Work Environment


• 4% premium pay offered for Certified Social Services Interpreters 

Note:  NWRC meets the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) definition of a public service organization.

SCHEDULE & LOCATION
NWRC strives to offer employees schedule flexibility while balancing the needs of their role within the agency with their personal lives. The WA Cares Benefits Navigator will be based in the Bellingham office, with some in person time in the Skagit office. This role will work with the WA Cares Programs Supervisor to develop a schedule that includes regular, in person time in both offices, as well as optional remote days balanced with frequent travel throughout Island, San Juan, Skagit, and Whatcom counties. 

QUALIFICATIONS

Education/Experience: 

• Bachelor's Degree in social services or related field; AND two years of experience providing direct human/social services; OR


• Master’s Degree in social services or related field; AND one year of experience providing direct human/social services; OR


• An equivalent combination of education and experience, which provides the skills, knowledge and ability to perform the work.
  

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Ability to understand federal, state, and local rules, regulations and guidelines.


• Ability to communicate effectively in both oral and written format.


• Ability to discuss difficult or sensitive topics with empathy and emotional intelligence.


• Demonstrated skills in interpersonal communication, interviewing, problem solving, organization, time management, and documentation of activities.


• Ability to travel to beneficiary homes and community agencies.


• Ability to learn and demonstrate competency with new or evolving job responsibilities and maintain flexibility in response to program changes.


• Ability to plan, prioritize, and work independently, with good judgment and a minimum of supervision.


• Ability to use technology, databases, software and computer systems with comfort and efficiency.


• Ability to clearly explain complex processes and systems.


• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers, community agencies, and the general public using courtesy, tact, and good judgment.


• Demonstrates an ability to engage with communities of color, people with disabilities, LGBTQIA+, and other marginalized communities.


• Demonstrated understanding of institutional barriers to services.


• Demonstrated ability, willingness and commitment to support an environment that advocates and creates a sense of belonging for individuals of all ethnicities, genders, ages, and backgrounds.


• Demonstrated ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality.
  

 Licenses/Certificates/Special Requirements:

• Must have a valid driver's license, a vehicle available for work-related travel, and appropriate liability insurance.
  

RECRUITMENT & SELECTION PROCESS

NWRC is committed to continuous improvement in our recruitment and selection practices. We strive to provide a respectful, inclusive and transparent candidate experience, while reducing barriers and supporting equitable access to employment opportunities. We prioritize timely, clear communication with candidates to reduce uncertainty and our selection process is comprised of job-related evaluation methods that are reviewed by multiple hiring team members. Applicants may request reasonable accommodation at any stage of the hiring process.