DSHS HCLA Social Service Specialist 2

State of Washington•Pierce County – Lakewood, WA

7d•Hybrid

About The Position

The WA Cares Fund Assessment & Community Support Specialist (Social Service Specialist 2) position is a thrilling opportunity to make a meaningful impact in long-term care policy. The WA Cares Fund is the first of its kind in the United States, offering affordable long-term care insurance coverage to all working Washingtonians. This role is part of the founding team introducing the nation’s first long-term services and supports social insurance program. The Home & Community Living Administration (HCLA) WCF is hiring key team members to assist with the full implementation of the program. The work will aid qualified people and their authorized representatives to apply for and access their earned benefits that help pay for daily-living activities. As a WA Cares Fund Assessor Specialist, you will meet people both in-person and remotely to conduct long-term care functional assessments under the WA Cares Fund program. You will conduct assessments in various settings to determine eligibility for self-directed long-term care services. You will craft personalized care plans that reflect everyone’s unique needs and goals, helping them stay in or return to their community with the support they need to thrive. There are two positions available: one permanent and one project position with a close date of 06/30/2027.

Requirements

Twelve months as a Social Service Specialist 1 plus completion of the agency’s Social Service Specialist training program within 12 months.
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.
A bachelor’s degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, or an allied field, and two years of paid social service experience performing functions equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 1.
Six years of professional/practical experience performing functions equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 1.
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.

Nice To Haves

Communicate clearly and professionally with clients, coworkers, supervisors, and community partners, both verbally and in writing.
Conduct telephonic assessments using department tools and technology while maintaining accuracy and professionalism.
Apply knowledge of social casework principles, Medicaid laws, and long-term care policies to assess needs and develop service plans.
Build effective relationships with clients and families, linking them to community resources and resolving issues with providers.
Demonstrate sound judgment in triaging referrals, analyzing problems, and developing effective solutions.
Adapt to change with flexibility and respect for diverse values, cultures, and perspectives.
Use evidence-based practices, critical thinking, and technology tools such as Microsoft Office to support client independence and maintain timely documentation.
A two-year master’s degree in one of the above fields that includes a practicum will be substituted for one year of paid social service experience.
Bring an equity, anti-racism, and social justice commitment to your work with DSHS.

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 that guide long-term care supports.
Educate individuals, families, professionals, and the public about long-term care options, program benefits, rates, and limitations.
Provide guidance on provider enrollment, service search processes, 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 WA Cares Fund is not pursued.
Ensure accurate, timely documentation and data entry while responding to administrative requests.
Make referrals to Adult Protective Services or investigative bodies when safety concerns arise.
Adapt priorities and workflows to address emergencies, coverage needs, and support individuals in remaining safely in their communities.