DSHS ESA Social Service Specialist 2

DSHS ESA Social Service Specialist 2

Are you committed to helping individuals and families overcome barriers to stability and self-sufficiency? The Economic Services Administration (ESA), Community Services Division (CSD), is seeking a Social Service Specialist 2 to join our team at the Bellingham Community Services Office. As a Social Service Specialist 2, you will provide professional-level social services to a caseload of individuals and families who face barriers to self-sufficiency. You will conduct comprehensive assessments, develop employability and service plans, interpret medical evidence, and coordinate services that support participation in the WorkFirst program and eligibility for Aged, Blind, and Disabled and Housing and Essential Needs programs, as well as Supplemental Security Income pathways.

Please note: This is an on-site role, requiring hands-on outreach and collaboration with clients and community partners. See why people like you chose careers with DSHS:

Some of what you'll do:

• Screen and refer individuals for medical, psychiatric and other tests
• Conduct social services professional level assessments to determine individual's level of functioning including evaluating the education, social history, living situation, and employment history as well as a comprehensive assessment of the individual's physical and mental status
• Review and interpret medical reports and test results to determine eligibility for programs administered by Community Services Division, Social Service Administration and determine need for further treatment
• Authorize additional referrals to medical specials when indicated by medical evidence
• Review invoices to ensure charges for specific procedures are in accordance with State maximums
• Interview individuals to assess vocational and social history; use this information as a factor in determining present ability to perform gainful employment
• Make payment for medical evidence through SSPS or eJAS
• Provide case management services on an on-going basis, where appropriate, to include periodic reassessment and changes in the case plan. The case plan or individualized responsibility plan may include, but is not limited to:
• Treatment for medical or mental health concerns, including monitoring participation
• SSI Facilitation
• Establishing linkages to housing, community and medical resources
• Protective Payee Services
• Treatment for chemical dependency, including monitoring of participation
• Vocational resources, utilizing WorkForce partners (such as Employee Security)
• Document social service specialists and client activity in ICMS and eJAS
• Other duties as assigned

Who should apply? Professionals that meet the following criteria:

Twelve months of experience as a Social Service Specialist 1 AND completion of the agency's Social Service Specialist training program.

OR

A master's degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, or an allied field, AND one year as a Social Service Specialist 1 or equivalent paid social service experience;

OR

A bachelor's degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, or an allied field, AND two years of paid social service experience performing functions equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 1.

NOTE: A two-year master's degree in one of the above fields that included a practicum will be substituted for one year of paid social service experience.

NOTE: Employees must successfully complete the formal training course within eighteen months of their appointment.

Additional knowledge, skills and abilities we are looking for:

• Comfort supporting people with complex needs: Ability to partner with individuals experiencing homelessness, mental health challenges, or substance use needs, offering grounded, consistent support in a respectful and nonjudgmental way
• Client-focused planning: Skill in listening deeply, understanding each person's circumstances, and using that information to shape assessments, case plans, and participation requirements that support stability and progress
• Clear, respectful communication: Ability to interact with clients, coworkers, medical providers, and community partners with tact, professionalism, and courtesy — even during challenging conversations or emotionally charged moments
• Assessment and decision-making: Capability to interpret medical documentation, determine eligibility pathways, take timely case actions, and make sound decisions in a fast-paced environment with competing demands
• Technical and regulatory proficiency: Comfort using multiple automated systems and applying program manuals, the Washington Administrative Code, and agency procedures to ensure accurate, policy-aligned work
• Adaptability and conflict management: Skill in navigating change, managing stress, and de-escalating conflict while maintaining focus, professionalism, and a steady presence for the people you support

Along with your on-line application, please submit:

• Cover Letter
• Resume
• Three professional references

The Department of Social and Health Services' (DSHS) vision that people find human services to shape their own lives requires that we come together with a sense of belonging, common purpose, shared values, and meaningful work. It is crucial to our agency's vision that you bring a fairness, access, and social justice commitment to your work with DSHS. We strive to support all Washingtonians, including Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, people with physical, behavioral health, and intellectual disabilities, elders, LGBTQIA+ individuals, immigrants and refugees, and families building financial security.