DSHS HCLA Adult Protective Services Investigator

DSHS HCLA - Adult Protective Service Investigators (Social Service Specialist
3)

Adult Protective Services (APS) seeks experienced professionals to join our team as Social Service Specialist 3s in Tacoma, WA. In this role you will independently assess reports of abandonment, abuse, financial exploitation, neglect, and self-neglect, gathering evidence, conducting thorough investigations, and connecting individuals with services that uphold their safety and dignity.

Investigations include unannounced visits in private residences and may be eligible for an additional 10% assignment pay.

• 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 and 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 2 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 2 or equivalent paid social service experience.
• A Bachelor's degree in the same fields plus two years of paid social service experience performing functions equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 2.
• Equivalent combination of education and/or work experience totaling six years will substitute for the degree requirement. Practicum work will be substituted for one year of paid social service experience. A two‑year master’s degree with practicum will be substituted for one year of paid social service experience.

• Positions require travel to meet business needs.
• A hybrid telework or flexible work schedule may be considered after successful completion of the training period.
• Employees must complete the formal training course sponsored by their division within one year of appointment.
• Pierce County employees are eligible to receive an Orca Card for transportation needs.

Washington State Department of Social and Health Services is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in any area of employment, its programs or services on the basis of age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity/expression, marital status, race, creed, color, national origin, religion or beliefs, political affiliation, military status, honorably discharged veteran, Vietnam Era, recently separated or other protected veteran status, the presence of any sensory, mental, physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability, equal pay, or genetic information.

Persons requiring accommodation in the application process or this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the Recruiter at (360) 725‑5810.

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