DSHS ESA Social Service Specialist 2

DSHS ESA Social Service Specialist 2

We are seeking a Social Service Specialist to join the Lakewood Community Service Office (CSO) team. You will provide professional-level social services to individuals and/or families who have barriers to self-sufficiency. You will complete in-depth assessments, medical eligibility determinations, case plans and provide case management for clients with varying degrees of vocational, social, cultural, educational, psychological, and/or physical impairments hindering their economic independence.

This is an on-site role, requiring hands-on outreach and collaboration with clients and community partners.

Pierce County employees are eligible to receive an Orca Card for transportation needs.

Some of what you'll do:

• Interview and conduct comprehensive assessments for ABD/HEN and/or WorkFirst programs, to gather information and assess client strengths and challenges.
• Gather medical records, as well as authorize and schedule appropriate medical evaluations and objective medical testing.
• Review and interpret complex medical reports and test results to determine eligibility for programs.
• Create, implement and monitor individualized service and treatment plans which provide specific action steps to help clients and their families to achieve self-sufficiency.
• Conduct caseload reviews to assess client progress and program compliance by utilizing reports and following required case activity timelines.
• Document accurate and timely entries into electronic case records.
• Collaborate with and refer clients to services such as counseling, substance abuse assessment centers, medical services, education, work experience, job search activities, and legal aid.
• Utilize a variety of computer applications.
• Seek effective resolution of problems and conflicts, including defusing hostile situations and redirecting frustrations into positive communication and behavior.
• Participate in home or alternate site visits to evaluate situations and conduct assessments.

We're looking for applicants who demonstrate:

• Willingness and ability to work with hard to serve, chronically homeless, mentally ill and chemically dependent clients.
• Ability to assist and empower each client to achieve their highest level of functioning and independence.
• Consistent ability to interact with all DSHS staff and serve the public with respect, tact, concern, courtesy and responsiveness.
• Ability to actively listen to clients and their needs while working collaboratively to develop their participation requirements.
• Capability to complete assessments, interpret medical documents, create case plans and take case actions following program policies, procedures, and applicable laws.
• Knowledge and ability to learn and utilize various automated programs.
• Ability to read and interpret the Washington Administrative Code and procedural manuals to assist in the determination of eligibility.
• Conflict management skills, including the ability to defuse potentially hostile situations.
• Ability to make critical decisions in a high-volume work environment with multiple demands on your time and attention.
• Capability to work in an environment of constant change.

This position may be filled at the Social Service Specialist 1 (SSS1) or Social Service Specialist 2 (SSS2) level, depending on qualifications.

Social Service Specialist 1 (SSS1)

• A bachelor's degree or higher in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice, or a closely related field; OR
• A combination of education and/or relevant experience totaling four or more years.

Note: Employees must successfully complete the division-sponsored training program within 18 months of appointment.

Social Service Specialist 2 (SSS2)

• 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, criminal law/justice, or a closely related field, and one year of paid social service experience equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 1; OR
• A bachelor's degree in one of the above fields, and two years of paid social service experience equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 1.

Additional Information:

• Relevant professional experience may substitute for education on a year-for-year basis.
• A two-year master's degree that included a practicum may substitute for one year of required experience.
• Employees must successfully complete the formal training program within one year of appointment.

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

• An updated resume
• A cover letter
• Three professional references with contact information

Questions? Please reach out to DSHS Recruiter Vincent Hamilton at View email address on click.appcast.io and reference job number #06838.