DSHS HCLA Fund Assessor Specialist - Social Service Specialist 2

State of Washington•Multiple Locations - Western Washington, WA

About The Position

The Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) Home & Community Living Administration is hiring a WA Cares Fund Assessor Specialist to support implementation of the WA Cares Fund, a long-term care insurance program for working Washingtonians. The role meets with people in person and remotely to conduct long-term care functional assessments and help determine eligibility for self-directed long-term care services. Assessments may take place in homes, hospitals, nursing facilities, or residential care settings. The specialist develops personalized care plans intended to help people remain in or return to their communities with appropriate support. The position also provides information and guidance to individuals, families, professionals, providers, and the public about long-term care options and WA Cares Fund benefits, processes, rates, and limitations. It requires accurate and timely documentation, collaboration with community resources, and responsive work when emergencies or coverage needs arise. Locations listed are Vancouver and Tumwater, Washington (Region 3).

Requirements

Twelve months as a Social Service Specialist 1 and completion of the agency’s Social Service Specialist training program within 12 months; 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; or six years of professional or practical experience performing equivalent functions.
A two-year master’s degree in one of the specified fields that includes a practicum substitutes for one year of paid social service experience.
Communicate clearly and professionally, verbally and in writing, with clients, coworkers, supervisors, and community partners.
Conduct telephonic assessments using department tools and technology with accuracy and professionalism.
Apply social casework principles, Medicaid laws, and long-term care policies to assess needs and develop service plans.
Build effective relationships with clients and families, connect them with community resources, and resolve provider issues.
Use sound judgment to triage referrals, analyze problems, and develop effective solutions.
Adapt to change with flexibility and respect for diverse values, cultures, and perspectives.
Use evidence-based practices, critical thinking, and technology such as Microsoft Office to support client independence and maintain timely documentation.
Provide an updated resume and three professional references with contact information as part of the application.
Have a valid driver’s license if driving on state business; employees using a privately owned vehicle on state business must maintain liability insurance on that vehicle.
Disclose specified relationships within the potential supervisory chain of command if selected for hire.

Responsibilities

Conduct in-person and remote functional assessments to determine long-term care needs and WA Cares Fund eligibility.
Interpret assessment findings and personal information to approve or deny WA Cares Fund services.
Develop and implement individualized service plans for long-term care supports.
Educate individuals, families, professionals, and the public about long-term care options, program benefits, rates, and limitations.
Guide individuals on provider enrollment, service searches, and rate-setting best practices.
Counsel families on qualified caregiver requirements, payment options, and available legal or informational resources.
Refer individuals to community resources or alternative programs when the WA Cares Fund is not pursued.
Complete accurate, timely documentation and data entry and respond to administrative requests.
Make referrals to Adult Protective Services or investigative bodies when safety concerns arise.
Adapt priorities and workflows to address emergencies and coverage needs and support people in remaining safely in their communities.