DSHS ESA CSD Social Service Specialist 2

DSHS ESA CSD – 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 Community Services Office, located in Arlington, WA. Key Responsibilities Conduct comprehensive social service assessments for the Aged, Blind, and Disabled and Housing and Essential Needs programs (ABD/HEN) and the WorkFirst program to identify physical, psychological, vocational, and social barriers to self‑sufficiency. Develop clear case plans and Individual Responsibility Plans with each person you serve. Review medical evidence to determine incapacity, disability‑related exemptions, and eligibility pathways. Process Aged, Blind, and Disabled and Housing and Essential Needs decisions within required timelines. Support and track Supplemental Security Income and Social Security Disability Insurance applications, including referrals and appeals. Monitor WorkFirst participation, review required reports, and take timely action when activities are overdue. Complete specialized assessments such as Pregnancy to Employment and Time Limit Extensions. Coordinate services with medical providers, mental health professionals, chemical dependency treatment providers, domestic violence advocates, and community partners. Document all case actions accurately in agency systems and follow established policies and procedures. Desired Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities Comfort supporting people with complex needs: Partner with individuals experiencing homelessness, mental health challenges, or substance use needs, offering grounded, consistent support in a respectful and non‑judgmental way. Client‑focused planning: Listen deeply, understand each person’s circumstances, and use that information to shape assessments, case plans, and participation requirements that support stability and progress. Clear, respectful communication: 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: 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: Use multiple automated systems and apply program manuals, the Washington Administrative Code, and agency procedures to ensure accurate, policy‑aligned work. Adaptability and conflict management: Navigate change, manage stress, and de‑escalate conflict while maintaining focus, professionalism, and a steady presence for the people you support. Qualifications Twelve months of experience as a Social Service Specialist 1 AND completion of the agency’s Social Service Specialist training program. 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. A two‑year master’s degree that included a practicum will substitute for one year of paid social service experience. 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. An equivalent combination of education/experience totaling six or more years. Note: Paid Social Service experience must include assessing risk and safety to children and/or adults and providing direct family‑centered practice services. Note: Employees must successfully complete the formal training course within eighteen months of their appointment. Work Schedule 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday. Snohomish County employees are eligible to receive a free ORCA card for transportation needs. Additional Information Work schedule: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday. Snohomish county employees are eligible to receive a free ORCA card for transportation needs. Employee Benefits Washington State offers a competitive benefits package that includes health, dental, vision, basic life insurance, long‑term disability, flexible‑spending accounts, and retirement plans. Employees may mix and match plans to meet their needs. Additional benefits include dependent‑care assistance, auto, boat, home, and renter insurance through payroll deduction, and a wellness program supported by the Washington State Health Care Authority. Employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems and may be eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness if they meet the qualifying criteria. Full‑time employees receive paid holidays, a personal holiday, paid sick leave, and vacation accrue according to Washington Administrative Code provisions. Part‑time employees accrue vacation and sick leave pro‑rata. Military personnel receive 21 days of paid military leave per year. Bereavement leave is provided as specified by agency policy. Equal Employment Opportunity The Washington State Department of Social and Health Services is an equal‑opportunity employer and does not discriminate in any area of employment, its programs or services on the basis of age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity/expression, marital status, race, creed, color, national origin, religion or beliefs, political affiliation, military status, honorably discharged veteran, Vietnam Era, recently separated or other protected veteran status, the presence of any sensory, mental, physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability, equal pay or genetic information. Persons requiring accommodation in the application process or this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the recruiter at (360) 725‑5810. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through Washington Relay Service by dialing 7‑1‑1 or View phone number on click.appcast.io. #J-18808-Ljbffr State of Washington