DSHS ESA Social Service Specialist 2

State of Washington•King County – Auburn, WA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Economic Services Administration (ESA), Community Services Division is seeking a full-time Social Service Specialist to join their team in Auburn, WA. This role involves providing professional social services to individuals applying for or receiving benefits from the Community Services Division, supporting the agency's mission. The position is fully onsite at the Auburn Community Services Office. King County employees receive 5% premium pay and are eligible for a free ORCA card. The department emphasizes equity, anti-racism, and social justice in its work, striving for greater access and representation for diverse communities.

Requirements

Excellent verbal communication skills when interviewing clients and interacting with coworkers, community partners, medical providers, and stakeholders.
Ability to serve the public with respect, concern, courtesy, and responsiveness.
Ability to defuse a hostile situation.
Willingness to work with hard-to-serve, chronically homeless, mentally ill, and chemically dependent individuals.
Ability to use automated software applications.
Twelve months as a Social Service Specialist 1; AND Completion of the agency’s Social Service program.
A Master's degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice or an allied field, and one year as a Social Service Specialist 1 or equivalent paid social service experience.
A Bachelor's degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice or an allied field, and two years of paid social service experience performing functions equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 1.
Additional professional experience described above will substitute year for year for the required education.
A two-year Master's degree in one of the above fields that included a practicum will be substituted for one year of paid social service experience.
Employees must successfully complete the formal training course within one year of their appointment.
A current chronological resume.
Three professional references.
Background check including criminal record history may be conducted.
Valid driver's license.
Liability insurance on the privately owned vehicle if driving a privately owned vehicle on state business.

Responsibilities

Conduct comprehensive assessments with applicants and recipients of the WorkFirst program to develop a case plan with the client based on the assessment and all relevant information, including medical evidence when warranted.
Conduct Pregnancy to Employment and Social Service assessments to identify barriers, determine WorkFirst participation, and evaluate disability/incapacity eligibility.
Develop individualized WorkFirst Responsibility Plans and coordinate referrals to medical, behavioral health, legal, educational, and community support services.
Conduct WorkFirst orientations, explaining program requirements, support services, and participation expectations.
Perform home and alternate-site assessments for vulnerable clients unable to visit the office due to physical, mental, or compliance-related barriers.
Interpret medical documentation and collaborate with healthcare providers to assess functional limitations and eligibility.