L&I Vocational Services Specialist 2

State of Washington•Thurston County – Tumwater, WA

11d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) is seeking to hire a Vocational Service Specialist (VSS2) to provide professional and technical expertise to department staff, private vocational counselors, employers and their representatives, health care professionals and injured workers. This role involves effectively interpreting and implementing statutes, administrative codes, department policies, and procedures associated with vocational rehabilitation services. The goal is to support claims units in fulfilling L&I’s mission of preventing long-term disability by returning injured workers back to employment as quickly and safely as possible.

Requirements

Master’s degree AND a CRC, or CDMS or ABVE certification. AND ONE (1) year of full-time State of Washington industrial insurance, disability management or related field experience in all phases of vocational services.
OR Bachelor’s degree AND a CRC or CDMS certification. AND TWO (2) years of full-time State of Washington industrial insurance, disability management, or related field experience in all phases of vocational services.
OR Master’s degree OR Bachelor’s degree AND a CRC, or CDMS or ABVE certification. AND Successful completion of the VSS1 training program.
Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC), Certified Disability Management Specialist (CDMS), or American Board of Vocational Experts (ABVE)
The ability to take action to learn and grow.
The ability to take action to meet the needs of others.
Your ability to present complex information so others can understand it.
Your proven knowledge or ability to conduct research, analyze policies, rules, or regulations.
An individual who is detail-oriented, and able to effectively prioritize, and maintain a highly organized work environment.
Your ability to maintain the highest levels of confidentiality and professionalism.
Knowledge and experience with workers’ compensation systems.

Nice To Haves

Experience with WA State’s system is a plus.
Practical working knowledge and experience with Washington State’s workers’ compensation system, application of Title 51.32.

Responsibilities

Provide professional and technical consultation regarding vocational services to department staff, private vocational providers, employers and their representatives, health care professionals, and injured workers and their representatives.
Effectively interpret and implement the statutes, administrative codes, department policies and procedures associated with vocational rehabilitation services.
Authorize vocational services and benefits in keeping with the department’s statutes, administrative codes, and policies.
Staff and review Vocational Recovery Closing reports recommending further assessment and refer claims when appropriate.
Research and respond to inquiries from external customers, claims staff and providers regarding vocational services.
Address and resolve reported issues by interfacing with appropriate staff including Private Sector Rehabilitation Services (PSRS), Vocational Dispute Resolution Office (VDRO) and other staff.
Document responses to private vocational providers recommendation reviews and requests for appropriate tracking.
Research and resolve vocational billing issues as requested by medical treatment adjudicators.
Participate in claim unit meetings as requested.