DSHS ESA Social Service Specialist

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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

Please reach out to DSHS Recruiter Vincent Hamilton ilton.gov and reference job number #06838.

The Department of Social and Health Services' (DSHS) vision that people find human services to shape their own lives requires that we come together with a sense of belonging, common purpose, shared values, and meaningful work. It is crucial to our agency's vision that you bring a fairness, access, and social justice commitment to your work with DSHS. We strive to support all Washingtonians, including Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, people with physical, behavioral health, and intellectual disabilities, elders, LGBTQIA+ individuals, immigrants and refugees, and families building financial security.

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 the privately owned…