FVS Social Service Specialist 3 (SSS3) - Vancouver-Cascade

Job Title: FVS Social Service Specialist 3 (SSS3) Location: Vancouver, WA (Vancouver-Cascade office) – Hybrid: in‑person, telework, and field work after probation. Salary: $69,348 – $93,288 Annually, plus 10% assignment pay for visits in unregulated environments such as private residences to conduct investigations for allegations of abuse and/or neglect. Job Overview Our vision is to ensure that all children and youth in Washington grow up safe and healthy, thriving physically, emotionally, and educationally, nurtured by family and community. Responsibilities In this role you will assess complex family situations, interview children and parents, evaluate child safety, develop plans to protect children in their homes, and offer services to children and families. Investigate, assess, and evaluate reports of child abuse. Provide ongoing safety and risk assessment of the family throughout the life of the case and take appropriate action to protect children, correct parental deficits through services, and provide support to the family. Provide comprehensive and ongoing assessment of casework needs for child, parent(s)/guardian, and foster parent(s) with a focus and priority on child safety. Assess the need for out-of-home placement and work with the family to find the most appropriate placement. Monitor the health and safety of children through regular visitation. Utilize FAMLINK to document case activities and maintain case records. Prepare and document cases for court proceedings. Required Qualifications Six (6) years of paid social service experience AND 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Service discipline. Bachelor’s degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, or any degree that includes 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Service discipline AND Two (2) years of paid social service experience. Master’s degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, or any degree that includes 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Service discipline AND One (1) year of paid social service experience. One (1) year of experience as a Social Service Specialist 2. The ability to take action to learn and grow. The ability to take action to meet the needs of others. Paid Social Service experience must include at least one year of assessing risk and safety to children and providing direct family-centered practice services. Preferred Qualifications Public child welfare experience. Case management experience. Demonstrated knowledge of applicable laws, rules, and policies on child protective and child welfare services. Demonstrated knowledge of addiction, treatment, relapse prevention, and recovery principles, and/or experience working with individuals with substance use disorder. Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively and build consensus with families, community partners, and professionals about difficult or sensitive topics. Experience assessing risk and safety concerning child abuse and neglect, or developing safety or service plans with families. Ability to organize information to meet FAMLINK documentation requirements. Worker Core Training (WCT) As a Social Service Specialist, you are required to successfully complete a mandatory 9.5-week Worker Core Training (WCT). This training provides foundational knowledge and skills for core job functions including assessing risk and safety, supporting child well‑being, gathering information, and conducting case and permanency planning. The curriculum covers: Understanding the child welfare system. Familiarity with the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) related to child welfare. Policies, procedures, and best practices. Assessing child safety through environmental observation, interviews with children and caregivers, and collateral contacts. Collecting records and collaborating with community partners, including medical providers, law enforcement, and chemical dependency services. Completing assessments and documenting case notes. Writing dependency petitions and court reports. Preparing for and testifying in court. How do I apply? Completed Applicant Profile. Attach transcripts (unofficial transcripts acceptable). Cover Letter. Current resume detailing experience and education. Supplemental Information The Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) is committed to creating a diverse and equitable workplace that reflects the communities we serve. We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, race, creed, color, national origin, veteran or military status, or the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability. A background check including criminal history will be conducted prior to hire. This position may require a minimum of two years of driving experience and a valid driver’s license. Benefits Washington State offers a competitive benefits package that includes medical (including vision), dental, basic life insurance, retirement plans, paid leave, staff training, and other compensation benefits that can be tailored to individual needs. #J-18808-Ljbffr State of Washington