DSHS ESA Social Service Specialist 2

Full Job Description

DSHS ESA – Social Service Specialist 2
Join our team as a Social Service Specialist with the Economic Services Administration’s (ESA), Community Services Division (CSD) in Aberdeen, where you will provide vital, client-centered support to individuals and families working to overcome barriers to self-sufficiency.

In this role, you will conduct in-depth assessments, develop employability plans, and deliver ongoing case management to support clients with a wide range of vocational, social, cultural, educational, psychological, and physical challenges that impact economic independence. Working collaboratively with your team, you will coordinate services, connect clients to resources, and engage respectfully with individuals in both office and home settings to support equitable and meaningful outcomes.

Some of what you'll do:

• Conduct comprehensive assessments for WorkFirst applicants and recipients, including specialized Pregnancy to Employment and social service assessments to identify barriers, risks, and eligibility factors
• Develop and implement individualized case plans and WorkFirst Individual Responsibility Plans based on assessment findings and client needs
• Provide ongoing case management and coordinate referrals to community resources such as behavioral health services, substance use treatment, medical care, education, and employment supports
• Interpret medical and psychological information, collaborating with medical professionals to assess functional limitations and determine program eligibility
• Facilitate SSI/SSA application and appeal processes by coordinating evaluations, gathering medical evidence, and completing psychosocial assessments
• Conduct orientations, home visits, and alternative site visits to engage clients, evaluate living situations, and ensure access to services
  Participate in team meetings and trainings, issue EBT cards as needed, and support overall program operations including other assigned duties
  
  

Desired skills, knowledge, and abilities:

• Strong verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively interview clients and collaborate with coworkers, community partners, medical providers, attorneys, and stakeholders.
  
• Ability to communicate clearly and professionally with management, peers, clients, and the public.
  
• Demonstrated ability to engage and work effectively with diverse populations.
  
• Skill in managing challenging interactions, including working with individuals who may be hostile or in crisis.
  
• Ability to remain organized and effective in a high-volume, fast-paced, and potentially stressful work environment.
  
• Proficiency in using computers and navigating multiple electronic systems simultaneously.
  
• Ability to assess situations, apply critical thinking, and support resolution through crisis intervention strategies.
  
  

Who should apply?
This position may be filled at the Social Service Specialist 1 (SSS1) or Social Service Specialist 2 (SSS2) level, depending on qualifications.

Social Service Specialist 1 (SSS1)

• A bachelor’s degree or higher in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice, or a closely related field;
  OR
  
• A combination of education and/or relevant experience totaling four or more years.
  

Note: Employees must successfully complete the division-sponsored training program within 18 months of appointment.

Social Service Specialist 2 (SSS2)

• Twelve months of experience as a Social Service Specialist 1 and 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 a closely related field, and one year of paid social service experience equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 1;
  OR
  
• A bachelor’s degree in one of the above fields, and two years of paid social service experience equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 1.
  
  

Additional Information:

• Relevant professional experience may substitute for education on a year-for-year basis.
  
• A two-year master’s degree that included a practicum may substitute for one year of required experience.
  
• Employees must successfully complete the formal training program within one year of appointment.
  
• Work schedule: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday
  
  

See why people like you chose careers with DSHS:


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

• An updated resume
  
• A cover letter
• Three professional references with contact information
  
  

Questions?
Please reach out to DSHS Recruiter Ricky Luna at ricky.luna@dshs.wa.gov and reference job number #02466.


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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