What are the responsibilities and job description for the DSHS ALTSA Adult Protective Service Investigator position at State of Washington Dept. of Social and Health...?
Description
DSHS Adult Protective Service Investigator
Are you ready to make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable adults? The Aging and Long-Term Support Administration (ALTSA), are looking for passionate, determined individuals to join our team as Adult Protective Services Investigators. In this role, you’ll be at the forefront of protecting those at risk of abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
This is not just a desk job—this is a field-based role in Tumwater, WA that will take you directly to the heart of the action. You’ll conduct face-to-face interviews in homes, hospitals, and care facilities, gathering crucial evidence, and advocating for those who may not be able to advocate for themselves. If you're looking for a role where your work has tangible impact, this is it. Your knowledge, dedication, and compassion will help us on our mission to change lives by safeguarding our community's most vulnerable adults.
Opportunities in this job classification that perform unannounced visits in unregulated environments, such as private residences, to conduct investigations for allegations of abuse and/or neglect of vulnerable adult individuals, may be eligible for an additional 10% assignment pay in addition to the advertised salary.
Some of what you will do:
- Conduct face-to-face interviews with alleged victims, alleged perpetrators, and other collateral contacts in various settings, including residential facilities, hospitals, and private homes
- 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, criminal, civil, and administrative proceedings
Who should apply?
One year as a Social Service Specialist 2.
Or, 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.
Or, 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.
Or, Equivalent combination of education and/or work experience in social services, human services,
criminal law/justice or an allied field totaling 6 years will substitute in lieu of degree requirement.
- NOTE: Practicum work will be substituted for one year of paid social service experience.
Knowledge, skills, & abilities:
- Experience working with vulnerable adults, assessing risks, and making decisions in high-stakes situations
- Strong investigative skills, including interviewing techniques and the ability to assess medical, psychological, and legal documents
- The ability to remain calm and decisive in crisis situations and make quick judgments regarding personal and client safety
- Excellent communication skills, both written and oral, for interacting with diverse stakeholders, including those with mental or physical impairments
- Proficiency with various software applications (Word, Outlook, etc.) and the ability to learn new programs quickly
- A working knowledge of Washington’s legal frameworks for vulnerable adults, including RCW 74.34 and related protective services laws
- The physical capability to conduct fieldwork, including traveling between different locations and potentially working outside standard office hours
- Knowledge of Medicaid terminology, regulations, and policies
Additional Notes:
New employees will complete a formal training course sponsored by their division within one year of their appointment.
This role will require travel to meet business needs.
A telework and/or flex work schedule may be considered after training is completed.
Questions? Email Morgan Daggi or call the main Talent Acquisition line at 360-725-5810 and reference 00924.
Supplemental Information
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. This announcement may be used to fill multiple vacancies. Employees driving on state business must have a valid driver's license. Employees driving a privately owned vehicle on state business must have liability insurance on the privately owned vehicle
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. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384.
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