Description
Reentry Eligibility Program Manager - Project This is a full-time project, remote position. Employees may occasionally be asked to attend an in-person meeting or event based on business needs. This project position is funded through June 30, 2028. All HCA employees are required to be Washington state residents upon their first day of employment. The Opportunity Help people leaving incarceration connect to the health coverage they need to rebuild their lives. As the MTP Reentry Eligibility Program Manager (Health Care Program Manager) in the Eligibility Policy Innovation and Community Support (EPICS) section, you will serve as the agency's subject matter expert on Apple Health eligibility policy for the Reentry Initiative under the Medicaid Transformation Project (MTP) Washington's 1115 demonstration waiver. You will turn federal and state requirements into clear, workable policy and processes, partnering with carceral facilities, community organizations, and agencies across the state to support coverage for the nearly 2 million Washingtonians who rely on Apple Health.
Key Responsibilities
- Serve as a subject matter expert in eligibility policy and technical application for the Reentry Initiative, 1115 demonstration waiver, coordinating, analyzing, and implementing eligibility policy deliverables for the reentry 1115 waiver demonstration project.
- Collaborate with carceral facilities, developing and supporting eligibility processes that ensure compliance with federal and state policy.
- Coordinate monthly Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) meetings to ensure HCA follows Medicaid and Title XXI/CHIP requirements.
- Develop and clarify Apple Health eligibility state and federal policy and procedures for legislative staff, constituents, other state agencies, HCA staff, and community-based organizations.
- Lead and manage partner relations for implementing necessary changes, including with federal partners as necessary.
- Consult with the Health Benefit Exchange, the Department of Social and Health Services, and their contractors in the development of statewide eligibility and enrollment tools.
- Monitor implementation of health care initiatives and strategies, lead HCA and other agencies on progress and challenges, update federal State Plans as required, and provide project management for Apple Health policy implementation using human-centered design principles and a diversity, equity, and inclusion lens.
- Train local partners and staff to ensure communities understand Apple Health and the Affordable Care Act as it relates to enrollment policies and procedures, including continuous outreach to local communities and assessing staff training needs.
- Respond to legislative and constituent inquiries on behalf of the Director and other senior managers, and review legislative bills that have potential impacts to Apple Health, making recommendations consistent with strategic long-range plans.
- Monitor enrollment strategies carried out by HCA staff and community-based organizations, and provide long- and short-range policy plans that meet client needs, meet federal Medicaid and CHIP guidelines, and create cost-efficient plans for policy implementation.
- Direct implementation of policy, negotiate with partners on behalf of the agency, serve as a point of contact in a region for the agency on policy and implementation guidelines, and manage divisional contracts as needed.
- Resolve local issues regarding the incorrect use of policy or procedures and complex issues with community-based organizations and HCA staff independently, and engage, communicate with, and present to community partners and leadership using the best methods to share ideas and achieve optimum results.
Why You’ll Love This Role
- Your work helps people returning to their communities from incarceration to gain access to the health care they need.
- You'll shape a high-profile federal waiver initiative from policy design through implementation.
- You'll partner with carceral facilities, CMS, state agencies, Tribal partners, and community organizations across Washington.
- You'll have real influence, presenting proposals to executive leadership and guiding statewide policy.
What You Bring You are a policy expert who can untangle complex federal and state requirements and turn them into clear, practical guidance for people working in very different settings. You manage multiple deliverables and partners at once, think strategically about long- and short-range plans, and resolve complex problems independently while knowing when to involve leadership. You are a confident communicator and trainer who builds trust with partners, uses human-centered design, and applies an equity lens to policy implementation. 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.
- Health Care Program Knowledge: Demonstrated knowledge of health care delivery systems, public health programs, and applicable federal and state requirements to support effective program administration.
- Program Planning and Implementation: Demonstrated experience developing, implementing, monitoring, and evaluating health care programs, policies, and operational initiatives to achieve established objectives.
- Policy and Regulatory Interpretation: Demonstrated expertise interpreting and applying laws, administrative rules, policies, and contractual requirements to complex program issues.
- Strategic Analysis and Decision-Making: Demonstrated skill in analyzing program data, assessing risks and operational impacts, and developing informed recommendations for management decisions.
- Communication and Consultation: Demonstrated skill in communicating complex health care program information clearly and providing sound technical guidance to leadership, staff, and external partners.
- Equitable Service Delivery: Demonstrated understanding of barriers to health care access and approaches that support responsive, inclusive, and culturally appropriate services.
- Leadership and Organizational Coordination: Demonstrated experience coordinating cross-functional activities, setting priorities, and supporting staff and partners through operational or policy changes.
- Problem Resolution and Continuous Improvement: Demonstrated sound judgment in resolving complex program concerns, balancing competing priorities, and implementing practical improvements consistent with program requirements.
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 working knowledge of Washington State government structure and divisional functions, particularly Apple Health (Medicaid) policies, procedures, programs, and services, to support the appropriate delivery of Medicaid services to eligible individuals.
- Experience applying state and federal laws, regulations, policies, and procedures related to Medicaid, health care reform, and the administration and delivery of medical assistance programs.
- Demonstrated knowledge and practical application of management principles and organizational practices, including group processes, problem solving methodologies, conflict resolution, negotiation, and effective organizational decision-making.
- Demonstrated proficiency in oral and written communication with clients, business partners, professional and managerial groups, and executive leadership, including public speaking, independent decision making, interpersonal communication, planning, project management, and leadership.
- Experience drafting Medicaid policies and procedures, researching Medicaid policies and practices in other states, developing short-term and long-term planning strategies, and evaluating program implementation for compliance with applicable legal and regulatory requirements.
- Experience analyzing Medicaid systems, program data, statistics, and other relevant information to identify and resolve complex issues involving Medicaid and state-funded medical program eligibility policies, legislative changes, and budgetary constraints.
- Experience educating communities about federal Medicaid and state-funded medical program eligibility policies and services, including developing and delivering clear, accurate policy to partners, legislators, and community leaders in a precise, understandable manner. Demonstrated knowledge and experience using health care eligibility and information systems, including ACES, Barcode, ProviderOne, Washington Healthplanfinder, and related client data systems, as well as proficiency with word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and flowchart applications.
- A master's degree with major study in public health, behavioral health, public administration, business administration, social work, or a closely related field.
- Consultative or supervisory experience in health services, social services, Medicaid, behavioral health, or other health care programs.
About the Apple Health Eligibility and Access Division The Apple Health Eligibility and Access (AHEA) Division works across HCA 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. Within AHEA, the Eligibility Policy Innovation and Community Support (EPICS) section evaluates federal statutes and regulations, sets state policy for Apple Health eligibility, and represents the agency in communities across the state, supporting the nearly 2 million Washington residents who rely on Apple Health for affordable medical services. 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 remote position. Our standard business hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with alternative work schedules considered based on business needs and supervisor approval. In this role you will 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. 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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Benefits
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
