DSHS HCLA Social Service Specialist 2
About The Position
The Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS), Home and Community Services Division, is hiring Social Service Specialist 2s for its Medicaid Transformation Project team within the Home and Community Living Administration. The role supports Medicaid applicants across Washington who need help remaining safe and independent in their homes. It includes completing Nursing Facility Level of Care screenings for the Medicaid Alternative Care and Tailored Support for Older Adults programs and determining whether clients are presumptively eligible for services. The specialist also explains and connects clients with programs such as COPES, Community First Choice, and Medicaid Personal Care, coordinating with community partners, tribal agencies, and Area Agencies on Aging. The position provides backup to the Intake Team as needed. These are project positions that are temporary, benefit-eligible, and currently expected to be funded through June 30, 2028. A flexible or hybrid schedule has been approved based on business needs. Coverage at a local office or attendance at trainings may be required as needs arise. Applicants must meet one of the listed qualification pathways: one year as a Social Service Specialist 1; a relevant master's degree plus one year of equivalent paid social service experience; a relevant bachelor's degree plus two years of equivalent paid social service experience; or an equivalent combination of education and/or work experience totaling five years in a relevant field. Practicum work may substitute for one year of paid social service experience. Employees must complete the division-sponsored formal training course within one year of appointment.
Requirements
- Meet one of the following qualification options: one year as a Social Service Specialist 1; a master's degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice, or an allied field and one year of paid social service experience equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 1; a bachelor's degree in one of those fields and two years of paid social service experience performing equivalent functions; or an equivalent combination of relevant education and/or work experience totaling five years.
- Practicum work may substitute for one year of paid social service experience.
- Successfully complete the division-sponsored formal training course within one year of appointment.
- Clearly explain Medicaid programs, interview clients with or without an interpreter, and compose professional written correspondence.
- Use a laptop, CARE Web system, and Microsoft Office for assessments, scheduling, and documentation.
- Apply social casework theory and practice to guide client decisions.
- Prioritize and manage a high volume of referrals according to urgency and office timelines.
- Analyze complex client situations, resolve conflicts between clients and providers, and connect clients with agency and community resources.
- Adapt to change, respect differing opinions and values, and support clients in reaching their highest level of independence.
- Understand Medicaid laws and rules for long-term care and apply evidence-based practices, such as fall prevention and medication review, to support elders and high-risk adults.
- Treat clients respectfully and adjust communication to support understanding.
- Have a valid driver's license if driving on state business; employees using a privately owned vehicle on state business must carry liability insurance.
Responsibilities
- Complete Nursing Facility Level of Care screenings for the Medicaid Alternative Care and Tailored Support for Older Adults programs.
- Complete a financial pre-screen based on client self-attestation.
- Conduct intake interviews and risk assessments by phone or in person.
- Explain Medicaid programs, including Community First Choice, COPES, and Medicaid Personal Care.
- Hand off eligible clients to Area Agency on Aging partners.
- Help clients complete benefit applications, including Non-Grant Medical Assistance.
- Mail application packets and information to clients and their representatives.
- Coordinate with community and tribal partners to connect clients with appropriate services.
- Refer clients to Adult Protective Services or mental health services when needed.
- Organize and submit documents to meet program deadlines and standards.
- Attend team meetings, trainings, and conferences.
- Back up the Intake Team as needed.
Benefits
- Benefit-eligible position
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
