DSHS ESA Social Service Specialist 1-2 In-Training

Description

DSHS ESA Social Service Specialist 1-2 In-Training

We are seeking a Social Service Specialist to join the Lakewood Community Service Office (CSO) team. You will provide professional-level social services to individuals and/or families who have barriers to self-sufficiency. You will complete in-depth assessments, medical eligibility determinations, case plans and provide case management for clients with varying degrees of vocational, social, cultural, educational, psychological, and/or physical impairments hindering their economic independence.

Some of what you'll do:

• Interview and conduct comprehensive assessments for ABD/HEN and/or WorkFirst programs, to gather information and assess client strengths and challenges
• Gather medical records, as well as authorize and schedule appropriate medical evaluations and objective medical testing
• Review and interpret complex medical reports and test results to determine eligibility for program
• Create, implement and monitor individualized service and treatment plans which provide specific action steps to help clients and their families to achieve self-sufficiency
• Conduct caseload reviews to assess client progress and program compliance by utilizing reports and following required case activity timelines
• Document accurate and timely entries into electronic case records
• Collaborate with and refer clients to services such as counseling, substance abuse assessment centers, medical services, education, work experience, job search activities, and legal aid
• Utilize a variety of computer applications
• Seek effective resolution of problems and conflicts, including defusing hostile situations and redirecting frustrations into positive communication and behavior
• Participate in home or alternate site visits to evaluate situations and conduct assessment

• Willingness and ability to work with hard to serve, chronically homeless, mentally ill and chemically dependent clients
• Ability to assist and empower each client to achieve their highest level of functioning and independence
• Consistent ability to interact with all DSHS staff and serve the public with respect, tact, concern, courtesy and responsiveness
• Ability to actively listen to clients and their needs while working collaboratively to develop their participation requirements
• Capability to complete assessments, interpret medical documents, create case plans and take case actions following program policies, procedures, and applicable laws
• Knowledge and ability to learn and utilize various automated programs
• Ability to read and interpret the Washington Administrative Code and procedural manuals to assist in the determination of eligibility
• Conflict management skills, including the ability to defuse potentially hostile situation
• Ability to make critical decisions in a high-volume work environment with multiple demands on your time and attention
• Capability to work in an environment of constant change

In addition to applicants who meet the qualifications for the Social Service Specialist 2 position, we also consider professionals for a Social Service Specialist 1-2 In-Training opportunity. The minimum qualifications for this in-training position are:

• Four years of prior social service experience or similar experience.

• A Bachelor’s degree or higher in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice, or a related field.

Upon successful completion of an approximately 12-month in-training plan, individuals hired as a Social Service Specialist 1 In-Training will be promoted to Social Service Specialist 2. Following this promotion, there will be a six-month trial service period, which includes additional required training to successfully complete the trial service.

• A current chronological resume

The Department of Social and Health Services’ (DSHS) vision that people find human services to shape their own lives requires that we come together with a sense of belonging, common purpose, shared values, and meaningful work. It is crucial to our agency’s vision that you bring an equity, anti-racism, and social justice commitment to your work with DSHS. We strive to create greater access and affirming representation of the communities we serve, including Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, people with physical, behavioral health, and intellectual disabilities, elders, LGBTQIA individuals, immigrants and refugees, and families building financial security.

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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