DSHS HCLA Social Service Specialist

DSHS HCLA – Social Service Specialist 2 or 3

The Home and Community Living Administration (HCLA) is hiring a dedicated Residential Social Service Specialist 2 or 3 to join our Spokane, WA in‑training team. This is a one‑year, in‑person, intensive training program for a Residential Social Service Specialist 2 or 3.

This work supports the vision of HCLA to have seniors and people with disabilities living with good health, independence, dignity, and control over the decisions that affect their lives.

This position is field‑based, and travel is a function of the job that occurs weekly. Depending on performance, a flex schedule may be considered after the first six months of training.

In this role, you will have the opportunity to meet with people with disabilities and the elderly, particularly those of low‑income, determine eligibility through a comprehensive assessment, and develop a plan of care and eligibility for clients in residential facilities. Your reward is in knowing that the tailored wraparound services that you provide are effective in the lives of others. These amazing career opportunities offer you the ability to grow with DSHS and join a dedicated team focused on protecting Washingtonians in Region 1.

• Conduct in‑person, client‑centered functional assessment interviews utilizing a laptop and software, in the client’s residential facility.

• Determine eligibility for the Community First Choice, Community Options Program Entry Systems, Medicaid Personal Care, or other applicable programs.

• Develop appropriate ongoing, individualized service plans in collaboration with clients and representatives to meet the needs of the client.

• As a client advocate, coordinate client needs with families, facilities, and community resources, as well as consultation, networking, family support, and crisis intervention.

• Provide case management to high‑risk adults whose need is part of a service plan developed following an adult protective service investigation.

• Authorize appropriate services and payments.

• Document contacts and situations; on occasion, prepare and provide testimony at hearings and legal proceedings.

• One year as a Social Service Specialist 2.
• A Master's degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice or an allied field and one year of paid social service experience equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 2.
• A Bachelor's degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice or an allied field, and two years of paid social service experience performing functions equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 2.
• Six (6) to Seven (7) years of professional/practical experience working directly in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice, with an emphasis in specialized case management involving disabled or vulnerable adults.

Note:

A 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.

• Understanding of Medicaid and/or medical terminology, policy implementation.

• A high degree of mindfulness.

• Effective and flexible communication with clients, representatives, and community partners.

• Conduct work in the home environments of clients, with a diverse caseload.

• Effective multi‑task using strong time management, organizational, and critical thinking skills to meet deadlines, maintain flexibility, and provide solutions.

• Completion of comprehensive assessments and development of individualized service plans.

• Understanding of Medicaid and/or medical terminology, policy implementation.

These jobs offer career growth. Experience assisting vulnerable adults is desired, although it is not required. The goal class for this role described above is for a Social Service Specialist 3. We may consider applicants at the SSS2 level, with a training plan to advance to an SSS
3. Education and experience are the differences between qualifications at each level and are evaluated by the hiring team. Starting salary depends on your qualifications. Thoroughly submitted…