DSHS HCLA Social Service Specialist 3
About The Position
The Home and Community Living Administration (HCLA) is hiring two Social Service Specialists for an in-training team in Spokane, Washington. This is a one-year, in-person, intensive training program for Residential Social Service Specialist 3, conducted at Rock Point from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. The position is field-based, with weekly travel. Depending on performance, a flexible schedule may be considered after the first six months of training. The role supports seniors and people with disabilities, particularly people with low incomes, by assessing their needs and eligibility for services in residential facilities. The specialist conducts comprehensive assessments, develops individualized plans of care, and coordinates services and resources. The work is intended to support health, independence, dignity, and control over decisions affecting clients’ lives. Employees must successfully complete the division-sponsored formal training course within 18 months of appointment. A background check may be conducted. Employees driving on state business must have a valid driver’s license; use of a privately owned vehicle for state business requires liability insurance.
Requirements
- One year of experience as a Social Service Specialist 2; or 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; or a bachelor’s degree in one of those fields and two years of paid social service experience performing functions equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 2.
- Paid social service experience must include assessing risk and safety to children and/or adults and providing direct family-centered practice services.
- A two-year master’s degree in one of the specified fields that included a practicum may substitute for one year of paid social service experience.
- Successfully complete the division-sponsored formal training course within 18 months of appointment.
- Understanding of Medicaid and/or medical terminology and policy implementation.
- Mindfulness and effective, flexible communication with clients, representatives, and community partners.
- Ability to work in clients’ home environments with a diverse caseload.
- Strong multitasking, time management, organizational, and critical-thinking skills to meet deadlines, remain flexible, and provide solutions.
- Experience or ability in completing comprehensive assessments and developing individualized service plans.
- A valid driver’s license is required for employees driving on state business; liability insurance is required when using a privately owned vehicle for state business.
Responsibilities
- Conduct in-person, client-centered functional assessment interviews at clients’ residential facilities using a laptop and software.
- Determine eligibility for Community First Choice, Community Options Program Entry Systems, Medicaid Personal Care, or other applicable programs.
- Develop individualized, ongoing service plans in collaboration with clients and their representatives.
- Coordinate client needs with families, facilities, and community resources; provide consultation, networking, family support, and crisis intervention.
- Provide case management to high-risk adults whose needs are addressed in a service plan developed following an adult protective services investigation.
- Authorize appropriate services and payments.
- Document contacts and situations; occasionally prepare and provide testimony at hearings and legal proceedings.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
