DSHS HCLA Social Service Specialist 3
About The Position
Join our team as a Social Service Specialist 3 with the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) in Spokane, WA. In this key role within the Home and Community Living Administration (HCLA), Home and Community Services (HCS), you will work with high-risk, frail, and vulnerable adults residing in residential settings such as Adult Family Homes and Assisted Living Facilities. You will conduct comprehensive, in-home assessments using a laptop-based system to determine functional eligibility for Medicaid long-term care services and develop individualized, client-centered service plans in partnership with clients and their representatives. This position plays a critical role in improving the quality of life for individuals in need, collaborating with community residential partners, resolving issues, and stabilizing placements to help clients live safe, healthy, and secure lives. Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage a large residential caseload are essential to preventing unnecessary hospitalizations and supporting client independence.
Requirements
- One year as a Social Service Specialist 2
- A Master’s in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice, or a related field plus one year of paid social service experience equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 2
- A Bachelor’s in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice, or a related field plus two years of paid social service experience performing functions equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 2
- An equivalent combination of education in social services, human services, criminal law/justice, or a related field, AND paid social service work experience totaling at least six years
- Employees must successfully complete the formal division-sponsored training course within 18 months of appointment
- Paid social service experience must include assessing risk and safety for children and/or adults and providing direct family-centered practice services
- 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
- A two-year Master’s degree in the above fields that included a practicum can substitute for one year of paid social service experience
Responsibilities
- Conduct in-home functional assessments using the Comprehensive Assessment Reporting and Evaluation (CARE) tool to determine clients’ level of care and eligibility for long-term services and supports
- Develop individualized, client-centered service plans in collaboration with clients and/or their representatives
- Determine eligibility and authorize services for Home and Community Services (HCS) programs such as Medicaid Personal Care (MPC), Community First Choice (CFC), Community Options Program Entry System (COPES), the Residential Support Waiver (RSW), and other long-term care programs and residential placements
- Provide ongoing case management to support clients in maintaining independence, resolving issues, and preventing unnecessary hospitalization or facility placement
- Assist clients with financial eligibility, benefit applications, and determining cost of care; authorize payment for approved long-term care services
- Document assessments, case management activities, and service authorizations using CARE, ProviderOne, ACES, Barcode, and other department systems
- Collaborate with team members, community partners, and collateral contacts; participate in required training, meetings, and professional development activities
Benefits
- Fairness, access, and social justice commitment
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
