DSHS ESA Social Service Specialist 3

State of Washington • Multiple Locations - Western Washington, WA

5d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Economic Services Administration (ESA), Community Services Division is currently seeking a Social Service Specialist 3, SSIF Lead Worker for Region 3. In this position you’ll take on a critical role through guiding and supporting a team of SSI Facilitators throughout Region 3, where staff will be responsible for facilitating disability claims for Social Security. You will be responsible for assigning work, maintaining work flow, conducting thorough audits, and ensuring that both new and experienced staff maintain high standards in service delivery. By identifying error trends and providing targeted coaching, you’ll help shape the development and efficiency of the team. In addition to leading a team, you’ll perform complex tasks such as reviewing medical records to determine client eligibility for facilitation services, interpreting rules, and developing procedures. Your expertise will also be crucial in helping SSI Facilitators in staffing complex cases and understanding both ABD/TANF and SSA eligibility rules. You'll engage with staff, other agencies, and the community to clarify information and support clients throughout their SSI application process. If you are an experienced professional ready to lead, mentor, and ensure the quality of SSI Facilitation services, this role offers the opportunity to make a lasting impact within the Community Services Division. Please note: After the first six-months in this position, you may be able to work a flexible/hybrid schedule based on business needs. The nearest Region 3 office to your location may be assigned your duty station. Region 3 covers the following counties: Clark, Clallam, Cowlitz, Grays Harbor, Jefferson, Kitsap, Lewis, Mason, Pacific, Pierce, Skamania, Thurston, and Wahkiakum.

Requirements

• One year as a Social Service Specialist 2.
• A master's degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice, or an allied field and one year of paid social service experience equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 2.
• 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 2.
• Equivalent education/experience totaling at least 6 years.
• A two-year master's degree in one of the above fields that include 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 sponsored by their division within one year of their appointment.
• Applies extensive knowledge of the Social Security application process to guide clients and staff.
• Guides team members with confidence, offering direction and support as this role grows into a leadership position.
• Brings awareness and sensitivity to diversity and cultural differences when working with clients and staff.
• Treats DSHS staff and the public with courtesy, concern, and responsiveness in every interaction.
• Works well with diverse teams across local, state, and federal levels.
• Keeps tasks, deadlines, and priorities in order to keep the work moving smoothly.
• Resolves conflicts and de-escalates tense situations with sound judgment.
• Manages multiple tasks and adjusts quickly when priorities change.
• Coaches and trains staff clearly and collaborates with local office teams.
• 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.

Responsibilities

• Provide oversight and guidance in reviewing and assigning work, ensuring case actions are aligned with policy and procedures.
• Serve as the subject matter expert (SME) for SSI Facilitation services.
• Maintain current knowledge on changes in procedures and policy by staying current on clarifications, and revisions to EAZ Manual, WF Handbook, SS Manual, CSD Procedures, etc.
• Contribute to lobby coverage across Region 3 CSO’s, work batch and/or assignments when needed or as assigned.
• Audit and review the work of SSI Facilitation staff.
• Establish reports and recommendations to supervisor regarding staff progress.
• Detect error trends through audits to identify training needs.
• Provide training and mentoring to SSIFs, ensuring they are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills.
• Maintain and review procedures for efficient workflow.
• Review cases and independently analyze case actions for accuracy.
• Contacts staff, agencies and the community as necessary for clarifying information.
• Investigate and resolve customer complaints.
• Offer feedback and consultation to staff while guiding them through complex situations.
• Coach and provide day-to-day support and on-the-job training for staff, following the Job Coach Guide for staff in training.

What This Job Offers

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