DSHS HCLA Social Service Specialist 2

Full Job Description

DSHS HCLA – Social Service Specialist 2

Join our team as a Social Service Specialist 2 within the Home and Community Living Administration (HCLA), Home and Community Services (HCS) Division, working with Medicaid applicants residing in their own homes seeking in-home services to maintain their independence in that setting.

This population are high-risk, frail, vulnerable persons aged 18 years and older who are medically and financially dependent on services from HCS.

There are 6 project positions that will be funded until June 30, 2028 and one permanent Social Service Specialist 2 Intake position.

For the permanent position, you will receive and process intake requests through multiple channels, support disability and Supplemental Security Income facilitation and help connect clients to the full range of HCS programs.

We are looking for multiple positions statewide throughout Washington State.

This position works effectively and collaboratively with our community agency and residential partners, fostering good communication and demonstrating reliability.

The Presumptive Eligibility (PE) case manager position conducts PE assessments telephonically using a laptop computerized system in CARE to determine functionally eligibility for applicants seeking PE.

Case manager will provide case management tasks until such time case can be transferred to an in-home worker for a full functional assessment.

This position requires excellent organizational skills to manage a large volume of new referrals and provide person centered care planning.

Will back up Intake Team as needed.

Some of what you'll do:

• Conduct functional assessments using the department’s Comprehensive Assessment Reporting and Evaluation (CARE Web) to determine level of care and eligibility for the PE along with doing a financial pre-screen for financial eligibility using client self-attestation
• The assessment will occur telephonically. The PE assessment will be completed meeting the quality standards as set forth in the Long-Term Care Manual
• Serve as the primary point of contact for Intake, providing front-door services by phone, email, fax and in person and determining appropriate Information and Referral (I&R) or DSHS program pathways
• Develop appropriate individualized service plans in conjunction with the client and/or representative to meet the needs of the client
• Authorize appropriate services for Medicaid clients utilizing qualified providers if the client chooses to receive their long-term care services in an in-home setting
• Provide skilled case management services to resolve issues, concerns, and diversional activities to prevent hospitalization or nursing facility placement
• Provide case management tasks until case can be transferred to an in-home worker for a full functional assessment
• Monitor progress of referrals, address any barriers and confirm the start of services
• Conduct intake interviews and initial risk assessment with clients or collateral contacts by phone or in-person to evaluate the client care needs and make a referral to the appropriate Home and Community services program and/or other appropriate services
• Coordinate and provide financial support services including assisting clients to fill out forms and application for HCS benefits, Non-Grant Medical Assistance (NGMA)
• Compute client’s estimated responsibility when appropriate
• Prioritize caseload according to office policy, timeframes, and workload expectations
• Organize, handle, and submit documents per program procedures and office specifications: ensure documents and forms are complete, accurate and up to date
• Participate in unit meetings, staffing with collateral contacts and community partners, mandatory on-line or in-person training, workshops, webinars, teleconferences, video conferences and meetings

Desired skills, knowledge, and abilities:

• Communicate clearly and effectively with clients, coworkers, supervisor, community partners and DSHS contractors and vendors
• Assess clients telephonically using a laptop computer and the agency-designated assessment tool
• Apply knowledge of social casework theory, principles, and practices
• Triage referrals and client care/management
• Link clients and family to agency and community resources
• Resolve complaints between clients and providers
• Identify and evaluate social dynamics affecting client choice and decision-making
• Effectively interview clients with or without an interpreter
• Demonstrate flexibility by adapting to change, respecting differences in opinion and values
• Use Microsoft Office and other computer applications for research, scheduling, correspondence, and documentation
  

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

• Twelve months of experience as a Social Service Specialist 1 AND successful completion of the agency’s Social Service Specialist Training Program
  OR
• A master’s degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law or justice, or a closely related field AND one year of experience 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 or justice, or a closely related field AND two years of paid social service experience performing duties equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 1
• NOTE: A two-year master’s degree in one of the fields listed above that included a practicum may substitute for one year of paid social service experience
• NOTE: Employees must successfully complete the formal training program within eighteen months of appointment
• NOTE: Equivalent education and experience totaling six or more years may be considered while performing functions equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 1

Additional information:

• King County employees receive 5% premium pay in addition to the advertised salary and are eligible to receive a free ORCA card for transportation use
• Pierce County employees are eligible to receive an Orca Card for transportation needs

• Snohomish County employees are eligible to receive an Orca Card for transportation needs

Ready to start a rewarding career? Apply today!

Along with your application, please include:

• An updated resume
• Three professional references with contact information

Questions? Please contact sharon.sterling@dshs.wa.gov or call Talent Acquisition main line (360) 725-5810 and reference job number 01656.

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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