Social Service Program Specialist 3

Pierce County•Tacoma, WA

5d•Hybrid

About The Position

This is a hybrid position and will work in the office 2 days a week based on business needs. Training may be in the office daily until after probation. As a senior planning and development professional with experience in planning, development, and evaluation of social service programs, you will play a critical role as a member of the Aging and Disability Resources (ADR) Division team. You will engage with the community to make sure older adults, people with disabilities, and their caregivers can access the services and supports they need to thrive in the community. Pierce County Human Services exists to ensure that every person in our community has the opportunity to live with dignity, stability, and hope. As the county’s community and human services department, we strengthen the local safety net by investing in programs that support people at every stage of life—from early childhood and youth development to housing stability, behavioral health, disability support, and services for seniors, veterans, immigrants, and refugees. Working alongside nearly 170 community-based organizations, local governments, and nonprofit partners, we respond to both urgent needs and long-term challenges with compassion, accountability, and collaboration. Whether helping families stay housed, supporting recovery and wellness, connecting people to food and transportation, or expanding access to opportunity, our work is grounded in the belief that strong communities are built when people are seen, supported, and empowered. Together with our partners, we are committed to creating an inclusive, responsive system of care that helps Pierce County residents not just survive—but thrive.

Requirements

Graduation from a four-year college or university with a Bachelor’s degree in public or business administration or social work, or a related field AND Three (3) years of professional social services work experience which includes work with related programs, contracts, planning, or services required.
A resume and cover letter are required for this position.
Applications without a resume and cover letter will not be considered.
A valid driver’s license is required when using a county vehicle.
As a condition of employment, the applicant will need to authorize and complete a background check.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for visa sponsorship.

Nice To Haves

Strong facilitation skills required for community engagement and coordination efforts.
Project planning skills necessary to develop/implement strategic plans responding to the needs of older adults and adults with disabilities living in Pierce County.
Ability to work within a team and to build strong collaborative relationships with community partners to provide high-quality services and supports.
Skilled and comfortable working in a hybrid work environment.

Responsibilities

Develop program plans.
Facilitate planning advisory board and public hearings/forums as appropriate.
Coordinate citizen groups, service agencies, and other organizations involved in the planning process.
Participate in local and statewide workgroups regarding planning and policy development.
Assist Managers and Supervisors with overall policy development.
Prepare special studies, reports, and statistical information necessary for future planning and community policy decisions.
Keep current, review, and analyze local, state, and federal legislative issues and trends in the area of program assignment.