DSHS ESA Social Service Specialist 2

DSHS ESA CSD – Social Service Specialist 2

Are you ready to take the next step in your social services career? Join the Virtual Case Management Center (VCMC) SS Team 9 in a position that offers a flexible hybrid work schedule, with the opportunity to predominantly telework as business needs allow. If preferred, office space can be provided. The selected candidate must reside in Washington State.

As a Social Service Specialist, you will provide professional-level social services to people and/or families, who have barriers, as they progress to self-sufficiency and are applying for or receiving benefits from the Community Services Division (CSD). You will complete in-depth assessments, and employability plans and provide case management for clients with varying degrees of vocational, social, cultural, educational, psychological, and/or physical impairments hindering their economic independence. Your ability to listen, observe, communicate, and understand will aid in engaging in problem-solving with vulnerable adults, children, and families.

The work schedule is expected to be: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday.

• Screen, assess, and refer clients for medical, psychiatric, and related evaluations; review and interpret medical evidence to determine incapacity, program participation, or deferrals.
• Interview clients to assess vocational, social, and employment history and evaluate current ability to engage in gainful employment.
• Review medical diagnoses, prognoses, and condition duration to determine functional abilities and ongoing program eligibility.
• Develop casework plans with clients, authorize services within funding limits, and coordinate referrals to internal and community partners to address barriers to self-sufficiency.
• Authorize medical referrals and provider payments, ensuring services and invoices comply with state requirements and maximums.
• Maintain accurate and timely automated case documentation; conduct periodic case reviews to assess progress and continuing eligibility.
• Participate in required trainings, meetings, and general staff support activities.

Who should apply? We are seeking professionals who meet one of the following qualification options:

• Twelve months as a Social Service Specialist 1, plus 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, 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, criminal law/justice or an allied field, AND two years of paid social service experience performing functions equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 1. OR
• Equivalent education and/or experience totaling six or more years

A two-year master's degree in one of the above fields that includes 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 within one year of their appointment. Desired skills, knowledge, and abilities:

• Knowledge of adult and family services, including child development, family systems, and indicators of abuse, neglect, exploitation, domestic violence, and other safety concerns affecting vulnerable populations.
• Ability to assess risk, apply sound judgment, and make informed decisions using established assessment models, medical and psychosocial information, and applicable state and federal laws.
• Skill in interviewing and engaging individuals and families, including those who may be resistant or emotionally charged, using effective communication, problem-solving, and conflict resolution techniques.
• Ability to develop, implement, and monitor casework and service plans that address medical, employment, and social barriers to self-sufficiency.
• Knowledge of medical terminology, substance use concepts, vocational counseling principles, job training options, educational pathways, and community-based resources.
• Ability to manage a high-volume caseload efficiently while maintaining accurate documentation and clearly communicating case information in written and verbal formats.
• Ability to learn and effectively use automated systems, web-based tools, and other technology to complete work assignments and communicate with clients, colleagues, and partners.

Ready to start a rewarding career? Apply today! Along with your application, please include:

• An updated resume.
• Three professional references with contact information.

Questions? Please reach out to DSHS Recruiter Peter Bonato at View email address on click.appcast.io and reference job number #06553.