DSHS HCLA Social Service Specialist

Join to apply for the DSHS HCLA Social Service Specialist 3 role at Washington State Department of Social and Health Services

The Home and Community Living Administration (HCLA) is hiring a dedicated Social Service Specialist to join our team in Union Gap, WA.

This specialized role supports individuals with complex mental health and medical needs who are transitioning from institutional settings to safe and stable placements in the community. You’ll conduct in-person assessments, develop individualized care plans, and coordinate long‑term services that help clients maintain independence, safety, and well‑being in the setting of their choice. This position also works closely with community partners to ensure clients have access to the full range of supports needed for long‑term success.

• Conduct in‑depth assessments and reassessments of clients in hospitals using a state‑provided computerized system.
• Work directly with individuals who may exhibit complex or challenging behaviors.
• Develop individualized care plans that support clients in remaining in or safely transitioning back to the community from institutional settings such as hospitals or nursing facilities.
• Provide case management services including implementing service plans, monitoring progress, offering advocacy, resolving crises, and coordinating with family members and care providers.
• Evaluate client needs and circumstances to determine eligibility for long‑term services and supports, including initiating, adjusting, or ending services based on state guidelines.
• Work closely with hospital staff, residential care providers, behavioral health teams, and other community partners to ensure safe discharges and continued support in the community.
• Maintain organized and up‑to‑date electronic case records, prioritize workload effectively, and respond to urgent situations and administrative requests as needed.
• Take part in team meetings, trainings, and outreach efforts to stay connected with agency goals, service requirements, and available community resources.

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written, including the ability to work effectively with clients, peers, management, the public, and interpreters.
• Knowledge and application of social casework theory, principles, and practices to support client care and promote independence.
• Ability to assess client needs, triage care, and resolve complaints while maintaining professionalism, objectivity, and cultural sensitivity.
• Skilled in identifying social dynamics that influence client choices and using that insight to support sound decision‑making.
• Proficient in writing professional, grammatically correct correspondence and case documentation.
• Capable of working independently, managing time effectively, meeting deadlines, and following proper communication channels.
• Adaptable to change, open to diverse perspectives, and committed to problem‑solving and developing practical solutions to program challenges.
• Previous experience in medical hospitals or nursing facilities is desired.

• One year of experience as a Social Service Specialist 2 OR
• A master’s degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice, or a related field and one year of paid social service experience equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 2 OR
• A bachelor’s degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice, or a related field and two years of paid social service experience performing functions equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 2.

• A two‑year master’s degree in one of the fields above that included a practicum may substitute for one year of paid social service experience.
• Employees must successfully complete the formal training course sponsored by their division within eighteen months of appointment.
• Paid social service experience must include assessing risk and safety to children and/or adults and providing direct family‑centered practice services.
• Equivalent education/experience may be considered.

• Work schedule:
  
  8 AM –…