DSHS HCLA Social Service Specialist

DSHS HCLA – Social Service Specialist 2 or 3

The Home and Community Living Administration (HCLA) is hiring a dedicated In‑home or 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 an In‑home or 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, with weekly travel. Depending on performance, a flex schedule may be considered after the first six months of training.

In this role, you will meet with people with disabilities and the elderly, particularly those of low‑income, determine eligibility, and develop a plan of care and eligibility for clients in‑home or residential facilities. Your reward is in knowing that the tailored wraparound services you provide are effective in the lives of others.

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

Education and Experience

• 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 two‑year Master’s degree with practicum substitutes for one year of paid experience.)
• 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.

• 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 multitasking 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.

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.

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.

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