DSHS ESA Social Service Specialist 2

State of Washington•Multiple Locations Statewide, WA

18h•Hybrid

About The Position

DSHS ESA CSD – Social Service Specialist 2. Join the Virtual Case Management Center (VCMC) in a position that offers a flexible hybrid work schedule, with the opportunity to predominantly telework as business needs allow. If preferred, office space can be provided. The selected candidate must reside in Washington State. As a Social Service Specialist, you will provide professional-level social services to people and/or families, who have barriers, as they progress to self-sufficiency and are applying for or receiving benefits from the Community Services Division (CSD). You will complete in-depth assessments, and employability plans and provide case management for clients with varying degrees of vocational, social, cultural, educational, psychological, and/or physical impairments hindering their economic independence. Your ability to listen, observe, communicate, and understand will aid in engaging in problem-solving with vulnerable adults, children, and families.

Requirements

Twelve months as a Social Service Specialist 1, plus completion of the agency’s Social Service Specialist training 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.
Equivalent education and experience totaling six or more years.
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.
Paid social service experience must include assessing risk and safety to children and/or adults and providing direct family-centered practice services.
Employees must successfully complete the formal training course within one year of their appointment.
Must reside in Washington State.
An updated resume.
Three professional references with contact information.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of adult and family services, including child development, family systems, and indicators of abuse, neglect, exploitation, domestic violence, and other safety concerns affecting vulnerable populations.
Ability to assess risk, apply sound judgment, and make informed decisions using established assessment models, medical and psychosocial information, and applicable state and federal laws.
Skill in interviewing and engaging individuals and families, including those who may be resistant or emotionally charged, using effective communication, problem-solving, and conflict resolution techniques.
Ability to develop, implement, and monitor casework and service plans that address medical, employment, and social barriers to self-sufficiency.
Knowledge of medical terminology, substance use concepts, vocational counseling principles, job training options, educational pathways, and community-based resources.
Ability to manage a high-volume caseload efficiently while maintaining accurate documentation and clearly communicating case information in written and verbal formats.
Ability to learn and effectively use automated systems, web-based tools, and other technology to complete work assignments and communicate with clients, colleagues, and partners.

Responsibilities

Screen, assess, and refer clients for medical, psychiatric, and related evaluations; review and interpret medical evidence to determine incapacity, program participation, or deferrals.
Interview clients to assess vocational, social, and employment history and evaluate current ability to engage in gainful employment.
Review medical diagnoses, prognoses, and condition duration to determine functional abilities and ongoing program eligibility.
Develop casework plans with clients, authorize services within funding limits, and coordinate referrals to internal and community partners to address barriers to self-sufficiency.
Authorize medical referrals and provider payments, ensuring services and invoices comply with state requirements and maximums.
Maintain accurate and timely automated case documentation; conduct periodic case reviews to assess progress and continuing eligibility.
Participate in required trainings, meetings, and general staff support activities.