Disability Program Coordinator - Program Specialist 2

Do you enjoy working with a diverse and inclusive team dedicated to providing outstanding customer service? Do you possess that spectacular blend of plain-talk communication skills and data management experience that allows you to accurately track and clearly communicate complex information? And, do you thrive in a dynamic environment that values employee learning and growth? If this sounds like you, the role of Disability Program Coordinator - Program Specialist 2 at the Department of Retirement Systems (DRS) may be the perfect opportunity for you!

This recruitment will remain open until filled. Applications submitted by the end of the day on Monday, February 17, 2025, will get first consideration. The hiring manager reserves the right to make a hiring decision at any time during the recruitment process. Please be sure to read the Supplemental Information below for information on how to submit a complete application.

The Opportunity:
In this position, you will play a critical role in ensuring DRS has the information needed to complete a comprehensive and timely review of disability applications received from members. You will coordinate receipt of all parts of the disability application and initiate contact with members, employers, and health care providers if information is missing. You will track all applications from receipt to completion of the review and will manage all applications and medical information exchanged with the third-party medical reviewer.

Some of what you'll do:

• Contact applicants, employers, and physicians/health care providers to obtain missing information or to request further clarification regarding the member's application and disabling condition.
• Coordinate the receipt of all parts of the disability application (member, employer and medical), identify when a complete application has been received for review.
• Complete data tracking regarding the status of an application from receipt to completion.
• Manage all applications and medical records going to and from the third-party reviewer.
• As requested, help coordinate outgoing correspondence regarding disability re-reviews and financial reviews.
  
  

What we're looking for (required qualifications):

• Proven experience coordinating disability, medical, or insurance claims, including direct communication with claimants and medical professionals to obtain information required for application review. Experience is typically gained from a minimum of three (3) years of full-time professional experience [a Bachelor's degree may substitute for one (1) year of professional experience];
• Demonstrated proficiency with Microsoft Outlook, Word and Excel (version 2016 or newer);
• Demonstrated ability to use multiple computer applications simultaneously; and
  
  

Be sure to read this entire section - We promise, it'll be helpful!

To be considered for this position, please attach a cover letter clearly describing your knowledge and experience in the following areas:

• Coordinating disability, medical, or insurance claims, including any direct communication with claimants and medical professionals;
• Effectively managing competing workloads, meeting deadlines; and
• Creating and maintaining accurate data using Excel.

Please keep in mind that professional or verifiable volunteer experience may be relevant. You are not required to submit a resume.

How to Apply: Interested applicants who meet the qualifications and competencies in this announcement are encouraged to apply. Be sure to complete all sections of the on-line application and answer all supplemental questions. The work history section of the on-line application should be completed fully. Application fields that say "see resume/attachment" will not be considered. Only those applicants whose background and experience most closely matches the desirable qualifications and competencies of this position will be considered for this opportunity. References, Personnel File Review, and Background Checks

• If you are the preferred candidate for this position, a professional reference from your current or most recent supervisor will be required;
• If you are current or recent state employee, we will also review your personnel file as part of our selection process;
• A job offer is contingent upon completion of a background check that includes a criminal record review.

Work Authorization

• Candidates who are offered a job with DRS must possess work authorization that does not require sponsorship by the employer for a visa now or in the future;
• DRS complies with the employment eligibility verification requirements of the federal employment eligibility verification form, I-9. The selected candidate must be able to provide proof of identity and eligibility to work in the United States consistent with the requirements of that form on the first day of employment.
• DRS does not use E-Verify; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM-Optional Practice Training (OPT). For information, please visit www.uscis.gov.

Why Work for DRS? At DRS, we are one team. We administer eight public retirement systems, 15 retirement plans, and the Deferred Compensation Program, and we serve over 930,000 current and former public employees in Washington. Our customers include fire fighters, teachers and school employees, state and local government employees, and public safety and law enforcement officers. Regardless of what our specific duties may be, we are all dedicated to one purpose: ensuring our members have the information, tools, expertise and services that ensure they receive the retirement benefits earned while in public service. We foster a diverse and inclusive environment where team members are fully engaged and supported in meeting (and exceeding) our customers' expectations. All DRS leaders are focused on providing the coaching, mentoring, resources and support that team members need to be successful. At DRS, team members enjoy:

• Flexible work schedules
• Free parking
• Commute Trip Reduction Program
• Infants at Work Program
• Tuition reimbursement
• Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness
• Opportunities for professional growth
• Subscription to LinkedIn Learning
• Commitment to team member safety and wellness
• Community involvement/charitable giving

Veteran's Preference: Applicants wishing to claim Veteran's Preference should attach a copy of their DD214 (Member 4 copy), NGB 22, or signed verification of service letter from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs to their application. Please remove or redact any personally identifiable information such as social security numbers and year of birth. For additional information on Veteran's Preference and guidance on how to determine if you are eligible, click here. The Washington State Department of Retirement Systems is an equal opportunity employer supporting diversity, equity and inclusion. DRS does not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, race, creed, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran or military status, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability. If you need assistance with the online application or have questions regarding the recruitment, please contact Human Resource office at drs.recruitment@drs.wa.gov. Persons of disability needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this announcement in an alternate format, may call the Human Resources Office at (360) 664-7208 or TTY Relay Service at 711. Come join the DRS team!