DSHS HCLA Adult Protective Services Investigator

DSHS HCLA Adult Protective Services Investigator

Washington State Department of Social and Health Services

Location: Bremerton, WA

Adult Protective Services (APS) is seeking experienced professionals to join our team as Social Service Specialist 3s in Bremerton, WA. This rewarding career allows you to grow within DSHS while working alongside a dedicated team committed to protecting vulnerable adults across Washington State.

We are looking for people with strong investigative, critical thinking, and problem‑solving skills to independently assess reports of abandonment, abuse, financial exploitation, neglect, and self‑neglect. In this role, your ability to gather evidence, conduct timely and thorough investigations, and connect individuals with services that support their safety and dignity will be key to your success.

Opportunity for additional 10% assignment pay may be available for unannounced visits in unregulated environments such as private residences.

• Conduct face‑to‑face interviews with alleged victims, alleged perpetrators, and other collateral contacts.
• Collect and evaluate relevant information to make decisions related to the investigation, services, and outcomes.
• Document all pertinent activity for each investigation and record electronically using computer software application systems.
• Collaborate with law enforcement, judicial entities, families, facilities, local office staff, other regional offices, and community agencies/partners regarding client needs.
• Identify and refer at‑risk and vulnerable adults to appropriate service groups.
• Provide client advocacy, consultation, networking, family support, and crisis intervention.
• Prepare and provide testimony at administrative hearings, court proceedings, and criminal, civil, and administrative proceedings.

• Proven ability to assess complex situations and develop effective, practical solutions.
• Strong time management and organizational skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, accurate data entry, and effective documentation practices.
• Familiarity with Medicaid terminology, regulations, and policies.
• Flexibility and adaptability in response to changing policies and organizational priorities.
• Strong critical‑thinking skills with the ability to maintain focus under pressure.
• Ability to work independently and make sound decisions, including in urgent safety‑related situations.
• Experience assessing risk and ensuring the safety of vulnerable adults or children is highly desirable.

• Professionals with one year of experience as a Social Service Specialist 1 and completion of the agency’s training program.
• A Master's degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice, or an allied field, plus one year as a Social Service Specialist 1 or equivalent paid social service experience.
• A Bachelor's degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice, or an allied field, plus two years of paid social service experience performing functions equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 1.
• Equivalent combination of education and/or work experience in social services, human services, criminal law/justice, or an allied field totaling 6 years will substitute in lieu of a degree requirement. Practicum work will be substituted for one year of paid social service experience.
• Two‑year master’s degree in one of the above fields that included a practicum will be substituted for one year of paid social service experience.

• These positions require travel to meet business needs.
• A hybrid telework or flexible work schedule may be considered upon successful completion of the training period.
• Employees must successfully complete the formal training course sponsored by their division within one year of appointment.
• Opportunities for additional 10% assignment pay for unannounced visits in unregulated environments may be available.

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

Email Jesus Hernandez nandez.gov and reference .

The Department of Social and Health…