DSHS HCLA Social Service Specialist 3

State of Washington • Multiple Locations - Western Washington, WA

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About The Position

DSHS Home and Community Living Administration (HCLA) Adult Protective Services (APS) is hiring Social Service Specialist 3 professionals in Region 2 to investigate reports involving abandonment, abuse, financial exploitation, neglect, and self-neglect of vulnerable adults across Washington State. The role involves independently assessing reports, gathering evidence, completing timely and thorough investigations, and connecting individuals with services that support their safety and dignity.

Positions are available in Federal Way, Renton, Seattle, Everett, Smokey Point/Arlington, and Mt. Vernon. Travel is required to meet business needs. A hybrid telework or flexible work schedule may be considered after successful completion of the training period. Employees must successfully complete the formal training course sponsored by their division within one year of appointment. Some positions involving unannounced visits in unregulated environments may be eligible for additional assignment pay.

Requirements

• One year of experience as a Social Service Specialist 2 and completion of the agency's Social Service Specialist training program; OR a master's degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice, or an allied field, plus one year as a Social Service Specialist 2 or equivalent paid social service experience; OR a bachelor's degree in one of those fields plus two years of paid social service experience performing functions equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 2.
• An equivalent combination of education and/or work experience in social services, human services, criminal law/justice, or an allied field totaling six years may substitute for the degree requirement.
• Practicum work may substitute for one year of paid social service experience. A two-year master's degree in a listed field that included a practicum may substitute for one year of paid social service experience.
• Ability to assess complex situations and develop effective, practical solutions.
• Strong time-management and organizational skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, accurate data entry, and effective documentation practices.
• Familiarity with Medicaid terminology, regulations, and policies.
• Flexibility and adaptability in response to changing policies and organizational priorities.
• Strong critical-thinking skills and ability to maintain focus under pressure.
• Ability to work independently and make sound decisions, including in urgent safety-related situations.
• Valid driver's license for employees driving on state business. Employees using a privately owned vehicle on state business must have liability insurance for that vehicle.
• Successful completion of the division-sponsored formal training course within one year of appointment.

Nice To Haves

• Experience assessing risk and ensuring the safety of vulnerable adults or children is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Conduct face-to-face interviews with alleged victims, alleged perpetrators, and collateral contacts.
• Collect and evaluate relevant information to make decisions about investigations, services, and outcomes.
• Document pertinent investigation activity electronically using computer software application systems.
• Collaborate with law enforcement, judicial entities, families, facilities, local office staff, other regional offices, and community agencies and partners regarding client needs.
• Identify and refer at-risk and vulnerable adults to appropriate service groups.
• Provide client advocacy, consultation, networking, family support, and crisis intervention.
• Prepare and provide testimony at administrative hearings, court proceedings, and criminal, civil, and administrative proceedings.
• Travel to meet business needs.

Benefits

• Hybrid telework or flexible work schedule may be considered after successful completion of the training period.
• Some positions involving unannounced visits in unregulated environments may be eligible for 10% assignment pay in addition to the advertised salary.
• King County employees receive 5% premium pay in addition to the advertised salary and are eligible for a free ORCA card.
• Pierce County and Snohomish County employees are eligible to receive an ORCA Card for transportation needs.

What This Job Offers

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