DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMIC SECURITY

Your Partner For A Stronger Arizona.

DES works with families, community organizations, advocates and state and federal partners to realize our collective vision: A thriving Arizona.

DES serves more than 3 million Arizonans. Our Mission is to strengthen individuals, families, and communities for a better quality of life.

Division of Developmental Disabilities
4000 North Central Avenue, Phoenix, Arizona 85012

Salary: $68,000.00 - $82,300.00 

Grade: 22

Closing Date: August 7, 2026

Would you like to be part of an amazing team that makes Arizonans thrive? At the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) we strengthen individuals, families, and communities for a better quality of life. DES is looking for individuals who are committed to service, community, and teamwork. To learn more about DES please visit des.az.gov or click on the link here to view ‘Our DES’ video. Come Join the DES Team!

The Department of Economic Security, Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD), is seeking an experienced and highly motivated individual to join our team as a Tribal Health Nurse Liaison. DDD provides individuals with developmental disabilities, and their families, services and supports that are flexible, high quality, and member driven. These services provide individuals with opportunities to exercise their rights and responsibilities of independent decision-making and engagement in the community.

The Tribal Nurse Liaison serves as a subject matter expert for information about the Division of Developmental Disabilities - Tribal Health Program (DDD-THP) and issues concerning health care and health care policies that affect the American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) and DDD-THP members. This position performs the following functions. Collaborates on health care delivery and care coordination for tribal members covered by subcontracted health plans and exchanges resources with tribal liaisons. Coordinates with the Enrollment Transition Team and assists with completing the Enrollment Transition Information Form for DDD-THP Members. Assists with the DDD-THP member services (therapy services, durable medical equipment, finding a clinician, referrals, etc.) as needed, including during transition between health plans. Promotes positive working relationships between DDD and the tribes. Represents DDD on community projects and work groups with tribal entities and other state agencies to improve health outcomes. Works with various divisions and government agencies to improve health outcomes.

Applicants for this position cannot be licensed or certified by the DDD Office of Licensing Certification and Regulation, cannot have a principal interest in or have a spouse or close family with principal interest in a DDD Qualified Vendor Agreement, and cannot be employed or subcontracted by a DDD Qualified Vendor.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
•Directly support DDD-THP members through the Complex Care Team, including coordinating and monitoring physical and behavioral health services and long term services and supports. Support DDD staff with care coordination and assessment of members’ physical, behavioral, and long-term care needs to develop comprehensive care plans for prevention, improved outcomes, reduced risk status, and increased self-care opportunities. Discharge planning from hospital and emergency department.
•Communicate electronically and telephonically with staff at tribal facilities to support the delivery of healthcare services for members with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This includes discharge planning, transportation, and changes in level of care such as skilled nursing facilities, assisted living facilities, and hospice. This also includes coordinating traditional healing as applicable.
•Work with DFSM to ensure DDD-THP members receive care in a timely manner and resolve members’ issues in collaboration with AHCCCS providers and DDD vendors. Report quality of care concerns promptly.
•Travel to Tribal communities to educate and provide educational workshops on health-related topics, including intellectual and developmental disabilities and the Tribal Health Program to tribal staff and communities. Listens to the tribal communities and tribal leaders