DSHS ESA Social Service Specialist 2

Full Job Description

DSHS ESA Social Service Specialist 2

Are you ready to embark on the next step of your social service career? Consider this exciting opportunity with the Virtual Case Management Center (VCMC), Social Services Team. This opportunity has the option of a hybrid and teleworking work schedule.

As a Social Service Specialist, you will provide professional-level social services to people and/or families, who have barriers, as they progress to self-sufficiency and are applying for or receiving benefits from the Community Services Division (CSD).

You will complete in-depth assessments, and employability plans and provide case management for clients with varying degrees of vocational, social, cultural, educational, psychological, and/or physical impairments hindering their economic independence.

Your ability to listen, observe, communicate, and understand will aid in engaging in problem-solving with vulnerable adults, children, and families.

Please note: This position currently has approval to work a flexible/hybrid schedule, as business needs allow. Therefore, the successful applicant could predominantly telework, or if preferred, office space can be issued. At the time of hire, the successful applicant must reside in Washington State. The schedule is expected to be: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday.



Some of what you'll do:

• Screen, assess, and refer clients for medical, psychiatric, and related evaluations; review and interpret medical evidence to determine incapacity, program participation, or deferrals.
• Interview clients to assess vocational, social, and employment history and evaluate current ability to engage in gainful employment.
• Review medical diagnoses, prognoses, and condition duration to determine functional abilities and ongoing program eligibility.
• Develop casework plans with clients, authorize services within funding limits, and coordinate referrals to internal and community partners to address barriers to self-sufficiency.
• Authorize medical referrals and provider payments, ensuring services and invoices comply with state requirements and maximums.
• Maintain accurate and timely automated case documentation; conduct periodic case reviews to assess progress and continuing eligibility.
• Conduct home or alternate site visits when needed and participate in required trainings, meetings, and general staff support activities.

Who should apply?
We are seeking professionals who meet one of the following qualification options:

Twelve months as a Social Service Specialist 1, plus completion of the agency’s Social Service Specialist training program.
Or
A master’s degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice or an allied field, AND one year* as a Social Service Specialist 1 or equivalent paid social service experience**.
Or
A bachelor’s degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice or an allied field, AND two years of paid social service experience** performing functions equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 1.
Or
Equivalent education and experience totaling six or more years may be considered.**

*A two-year master’s degree in one of the above fields that includes a practicum will be substituted for one year of paid social service experience.

** Paid social service experience must include assessing risk and safety to children and/or adults and providing direct family-centered practice services.

Note: Employees must successfully complete the formal training course within one year of their appointment.


Desired skills, knowledge, and abilities:

• Knowledge of adult and family services, including child development, family systems, and indicators of abuse, neglect, exploitation, domestic violence, and other safety concerns affecting vulnerable populations.
• Ability to assess risk, apply sound judgment, and make informed decisions using established assessment models, medical and psychosocial information, and applicable state and federal laws.
• Skill in interviewing and engaging individuals and families, including those who may be resistant or emotionally charged, using effective communication, problem-solving, and conflict resolution techniques.
• Ability to develop, implement, and monitor casework and service plans that address medical, employment, and social barriers to self-sufficiency.
• Knowledge of medical terminology, substance use concepts, vocational counseling principles, job training options, educational pathways, and community-based resources.
• Ability to manage a high-volume caseload efficiently while maintaining accurate documentation and clearly communicating case information in written and verbal formats.
• Ability to learn and effectively use automated systems, web-based tools, and other technology to complete work assignments and communicate with clients, colleagues, and partners.

Ready to start a rewarding career? Apply today!
Along with your application, please include:

• An updated resume.
• A brief cover letter highlighting the skills, strengths, and experiences that would bring to this role, and how they would support success in the position.
• Three professional references with contact information.
  
  

Questions?
Please reach out to DSHS Recruiter Georgina Pringle at Georgina.Pringle@dshs.wa.gov and reference job number #09187.


The Department of Social and Health Services’ (DSHS) vision that people find human services to shape their own lives requires that we come together with a sense of belonging, common purpose, shared values, and meaningful work. It is crucial to our agency’s vision that you bring a fairness, access, and social justice commitment to your work with DSHS. We strive to support all Washingtonians, including Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, people with physical, behavioral health, and intellectual disabilities, elders, LGBTQIA+ individuals, immigrants and refugees, and families building financial security.

Additional Information

Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history may be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability and competence to perform in the job. This announcement may be used to fill multiple vacancies. Employees driving on state business must have a valid driver's license. Employees driving a privately owned vehicle on state business must have liability insurance on the privately owned vehicle.

Washington State Department of Social and Health Services is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in any area of employment, its programs or services on the basis of age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity/expression, marital status, race, creed, color, national origin, religion or beliefs, political affiliation, military status, honorably discharged veteran, Vietnam Era, recently separated or other protected veteran status, the presence of any sensory, mental, physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability, equal pay or genetic information. Persons requiring accommodation in the application process or this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the Recruiter at (360) 725-5810. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384.


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