DSHS ESA Social Service Specialist 2

State of Washington • King County – Kent, WA

5d • Onsite

About The Position

The Economic Services Administration (ESA), Community Services Division (CSD), is hiring a Social Service Specialist 2 for the King South Community Services Office in Kent, Washington. The role supports WorkFirst applicants and recipients who face barriers to work and self-sufficiency. The specialist assesses each person’s circumstances, develops individualized plans, connects them with appropriate services, and monitors their progress and program compliance. The position also involves reviewing medical information to assess disability-related eligibility and helping people apply for Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

This is an on-site position involving direct outreach and collaboration with clients and community partners. Local travel may be required. King County employees receive 5% premium pay in addition to the advertised salary and may receive a free ORCA transportation card.

Employees must successfully complete the formal training course within 18 months of appointment. Employees who drive on state business must have a valid driver’s license; employees using a personal vehicle for state business must carry liability insurance. A background check may be conducted before hire.

Requirements

• 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, or an allied field and one year as a Social Service Specialist 1 or equivalent paid social service experience; or a bachelor’s degree in one of those fields and two years of paid social service experience performing functions equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 1.
• A two-year master’s degree in a qualifying field that included a practicum may substitute for one year of paid social service experience.
• Successfully complete the formal training course within 18 months of appointment.
• Ability to support people experiencing complex needs, including homelessness, mental health challenges, or substance-use needs, respectfully and without judgment.
• Ability to listen, understand clients’ circumstances, and use that information to develop assessments, case plans, and participation requirements.
• Ability to communicate tactfully and professionally with clients, coworkers, medical providers, and community partners, including during challenging or emotionally charged conversations.
• Ability to interpret medical documentation, determine eligibility pathways, take timely case actions, and make sound decisions in a fast-paced environment.
• Comfort using multiple automated systems and applying program manuals, the Washington Administrative Code, and agency procedures.
• Ability to adapt to change, manage stress, de-escalate conflict, and maintain professionalism.
• Valid driver’s license when driving on state business; liability insurance when using a privately owned vehicle for state business.

Responsibilities

• Meet with WorkFirst applicants and recipients to assess their education, work history, living situation, and health.
• Develop individual responsibility plans based on assessments and available medical records.
• Complete Pregnancy to Employment assessments for parents who are pregnant or caring for a child under two years old.
• Refer clients to services such as mental health counseling, domestic violence support, substance-use assessment, medical care, education, work experience, job search, First Steps, and legal aid.
• Visit clients at home or another location when they cannot come to the office.
• Lead WorkFirst orientations explaining program rules, support services, and activities.
• Assess physical and mental health limitations to determine whether clients qualify for disability-related programs.
• Create, implement, monitor, and modify case plans to support clients’ self-sufficiency.
• Review cases periodically to assess client progress and continuing compliance with social services programs.
• Read and interpret medical reports and test results.
• Communicate with medical providers about how a client’s condition affects their ability to work.
• Help clients apply for Supplemental Security Income by arranging medical exams, gathering records, and preparing a professional assessment of their circumstances.
• Track SSI applications with Social Security and attorneys, and respond to appeals on time.
• Issue benefit cards and explain how to use them.
• Record case activity in electronic case management systems.
• Attend team meetings, supervisor check-ins, and required training.

Benefits

• King County employees receive 5% premium pay in addition to the advertised salary.
• Eligible King County employees may receive a free ORCA card for transportation use.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level