DSHS HCLA Adult Protective Services Investigator

Social Service Specialist 3 DSHS's Adult Protective Services (APS) in Bremerton, WA are hiring a Social Service Specialist 3. In this role you will investigate reports of abuse, neglect, abandonment, financial exploitation and self‑neglect, ensuring individuals receive the services and support needed to live safely and with dignity. Responsibilities Conduct in‑person interviews with vulnerable adults, witnesses and others to investigate reports of abuse, neglect, abandonment or exploitation. Visit homes, hospitals, residential facilities and community locations to assess living situations and identify potential safety concerns. Gather and evaluate information from individuals, families, records and professionals to determine appropriate findings and next steps. Document investigative activities, case decisions and required reports in state systems and official records. Work with law enforcement, medical providers, residential care staff and community organizations to address safety concerns and service needs. Provide advocacy, guidance and support to vulnerable adults during difficult or uncertain situations. Develop service plans that help promote safety while respecting individual rights and personal choices. Present investigative findings during case review meetings and collaborate with colleagues on complex situations. Prepare written reports, respond to administrative requests and address inquiries from individuals or community members. Provide testimony during administrative hearings or court proceedings when cases require legal review. Educate community members and professionals about recognizing and reporting abuse, neglect and exploitation. Qualifications One year as a Social Service Specialist 2 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 2 or equivalent paid social service experience (practicum work can 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 2 (practicum work can substitute for one year of paid social service experience). An equivalent combination of education and/or work experience in social services, human services, criminal law/justice or an allied field totaling six years will substitute in lieu of a degree requirement. Please Note This position requires travel and work in the community based on business needs. Employees must successfully complete the formal training course sponsored by their division within one year of appointment. Skills and Abilities Investigative skill: analyze reports, gather relevant information and evaluate facts to determine whether abuse, neglect or exploitation has occurred. Risk assessment: identify safety concerns and evaluate the level of risk in order to recommend appropriate protective actions or services. Communication: build trust with vulnerable adults while clearly explaining processes, services and next steps to individuals, families and professionals. Professional judgment: evaluate complex situations and make thoughtful decisions that balance safety, rights and available resources. Documentation: prepare clear, organized reports and records that accurately reflect investigative activities and findings. Cultural awareness: engage respectfully with individuals from diverse backgrounds and life experiences. Technology skills: use computers and software systems to document investigations, manage case information and complete required reports. Collaboration: partner effectively with law enforcement, health care providers, residential care staff and community organizations to support client well‑being. Bring your compassion, dedication, and professionalism to a role where you’ll be partnering with people to provide support, care, and resources. Supplemental Information Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history may be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant’s suitability and competence to perform in the job. This announcement may be used to fill multiple vacancies. 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 that vehicle. 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 or 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 View phone number on click.appcast.io. 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. 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