DSHS ESA Social Service Specialist 2

State of Washington•Pierce County – Lakewood, WA

4d•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a Social Service Specialist to join the Lakewood Community Service Office (CSO) team. You will provide professional-level social services to individuals and/or families who have barriers to self-sufficiency. You will complete in-depth assessments, medical eligibility determinations, case plans and provide case management for clients with varying degrees of vocational, social, cultural, educational, psychological, and/or physical impairments hindering their economic independence. This is an on-site role, requiring hands-on outreach and collaboration with clients and community partners. Pierce County employees are eligible to receive an Orca Card for transportation needs.

Requirements

Willingness and ability to work with hard to serve, chronically homeless, mentally ill and chemically dependent clients.
Ability to assist and empower each client to achieve their highest level of functioning and independence.
Consistent ability to interact with all DSHS staff and serve the public with respect, tact, concern, courtesy and responsiveness.
Ability to actively listen to clients and their needs while working collaboratively to develop their participation requirements.
Capability to complete assessments, interpret medical documents, create case plans and take case actions following program policies, procedures, and applicable laws.
Knowledge and ability to learn and utilize various automated programs.
Ability to read and interpret the Washington Administrative Code and procedural manuals to assist in the determination of eligibility.
Conflict management skills, including the ability to defuse potentially hostile situations.
Ability to make critical decisions in a high-volume work environment with multiple demands on your time and attention.
Capability to work in an environment of constant change.
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.
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.
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.
An updated resume
A cover letter
Three professional references with contact information
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.

Responsibilities

Interview and conduct comprehensive assessments for ABD/HEN and/or WorkFirst programs, to gather information and assess client strengths and challenges.
Gather medical records, as well as authorize and schedule appropriate medical evaluations and objective medical testing.
Review and interpret complex medical reports and test results to determine eligibility for programs.
Create, implement and monitor individualized service and treatment plans which provide specific action steps to help clients and their families to achieve self-sufficiency.
Conduct caseload reviews to assess client progress and program compliance by utilizing reports and following required case activity timelines.
Document accurate and timely entries into electronic case records.
Collaborate with and refer clients to services such as counseling, substance abuse assessment centers, medical services, education, work experience, job search activities, and legal aid.
Utilize a variety of computer applications.
Seek effective resolution of problems and conflicts, including defusing hostile situations and redirecting frustrations into positive communication and behavior.
Participate in home or alternate site visits to evaluate situations and conduct assessments.