DSHS ESA Social Service Specialist In-Training

DSHS ESA Social Service Specialist 1-2 In-Training

Are you committed to helping individuals and families overcome barriers to stability and self‑sufficiency? The Economic Services Administration (ESA), Community Services Division (CSD), is seeking a Social Service Specialist 1-2 in training to join our team at the Olympia Community Services Office, located in SE Tumwater.

As a Social Service Specialist, you will provide direct support to individuals applying for or receiving benefits by conducting comprehensive assessments, interpreting medical reports, and developing tailored action plans to address each client’s unique needs. Your primary role will be to assist recipients of Aged, Blind, & Disabled (ABD), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), and Refugee Cash Assistance through the Social Security process.

This is an on‑site role, requiring hands‑on outreach and collaboration with clients and community partners. Our ideal applicant will be highly organized, self‑motivated, and able to work independently. Your ability to analyze complex situations, advocate for services, and build relationships will be key to your success.

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• Conduct assessments for the Aged, Blind and Disabled/Housing & Essential Needs (ABD/HEN) and Work First programs, to determine a person's level of functioning including evaluating education, social history, living situation, and employment history as well as physical and behavioral health status.
• Provide case management for clients with social, cultural, vocational, and medical impairments of varying degrees.
• Complete program assessments and eligibility determination for Aged, Blind, and Disabled/Housing & Essential Needs.
• Conduct assessments and create case plans for participants in the Work First program.
• Create, implement, monitor, and modify case plans for customers to help achieve self‑sufficiency.
• Review and examine cases on a periodic basis to assess client progress and determine continuing compliance of social services programs.
• Coordinate services with other agencies such as mental health, Employment Security, substance abuse programs, vocational rehabilitation, and developmental disabilities.
• Apply medical diagnostic terminology and categories to assess and determine client employability or incapacity.
• Provide services collaboratively and with empathy and respect.
• Interview clients and provide a comprehensive assessment of vocational, educational, social, and health history.
• Authorize referrals to medical specialists and other agencies.
• Participate in in‑home or alternate site visits to evaluate situations and conduct assessments.
• Provide expert testimony in Administrative Hearings and interpret information.

• Four years of prior social service experience or similar experience.
• A bachelor's degree or higher in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice, or an allied field (equivalent education/experience).

Employees must successfully complete the formal training course sponsored by their division within eighteen months of their appointment.

• Comfort supporting people with complex needs:
  Ability to partner with individuals experiencing homelessness, mental health challenges, or substance use needs, offering grounded, consistent support in a respectful and nonjudgmental way.
• Client‑focused planning:
  Skill in listening deeply, understanding each person’s circumstances, and using that information to shape assessments, case plans, and participation requirements that support stability and progress.
• Clear, respectful communication:
  Ability to interact with clients, coworkers, medical providers, and community partners with tact, professionalism, and courtesy— even during challenging conversations or emotionally charged moments.
• Assessment and decision‑making:
  Capability to interpret medical documentation, determine eligibility pathways, take timely case actions, and make sound decisions in a fast‑paced environment with competing…