RFQ - Social Service Professional Indigent Parents in Dependency Cases

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS

Social Service Professional for Indigent Parents in Dependency Cases RFQ 26015

The Washington State Office of Public Defense (OPD) Parents Representation Program (PRP) provides state‑funded attorney representation and social service professional support services to indigent parents, custodians, and legal guardians involved in child dependency and termination of parental rights proceedings in all 39 Washington counties. OPD is requesting applications for a social service professional contract in the following county:

• Clallam County
  :
  One part‑time 90% contract, 120 hours per month, annual compensation of $89,100.

More than Just a Paycheck!

Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation. Workforce health and financial security are supported through a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training, and other compensation benefits that can be mixed and matched to meet current and future needs.

Insurance Benefits

Employees and families are covered by medical (including vision), dental, and basic life insurance. Multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums offer coverage throughout the state. Staff can enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account to use tax‑deferred dollars toward health care expenses. Employees also receive basic life and long‑term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.

Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction. The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes employee health and well‑being.

Retirement and Deferred Compensation

State employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees may choose among two employer‑contributed retirement programs. Additional information can be found on the Department of Retirement Systems website. Employees may also participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP), a supplemental retirement savings option that allows pre‑tax salary deferral and investment flexibility.

Social Security

All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems, with equal contributions from state and employee.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

Eligible government or not‑for‑profit employees may qualify for student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Paid Time Off and Leave

Full‑time and part‑time employees receive paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year. Sick leave accrues at eight hours per month for full‑time employees; part‑time accrual is proportional to hours worked. Vacation (annual leave) accrual follows WAC 357‑31‑165 or applicable collective bargaining agreements, with pro‑rata adjustments for part‑time employees. Additional leave options include military leave, bereavement leave, leave sharing, parental leave, Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), and leave without pay.

Please visit the State HR Website for detailed information regarding benefits.

Qualifications

• Bachelor or master’s degree in social work, sociology, psychology, human services, or a related field (qualification may be waived for exceptional candidates).
• Experience in child welfare cases as a professional and/or lived experience.
• Ability to communicate effectively with indigent clients.
• Ability to communicate professionally with child welfare stakeholders.
• History of providing excellent, culturally competent representation of clients.