DSHS ALTSA Social Service Specialist 3 (in-training)

Description

Become a member of our hard-working, supportive team of professionals that provide social services to vulnerable adult populations as a Home and Community Services Social Services Specialist 2-3 (in-training) . This work supports the vision of the Aging & Long-Term Care Support Administration (ALTSA) to have seniors and people with disabilities living with good health, independence, dignity, and control over the decisions that affect their lives.

You will have the opportunity to meet with people with disabilities and the elderly, particularly those of low income, determine eligibility through a comprehensive assessment, and develop a plan of care and eligibility for in-home services or placement in residential facilities. Your reward is in knowing that the tailored wraparound services that you provide are effective in the lives of others. This amazing career opportunity offers you the ability to grow within DSHS and join a dedicated team focused on protecting Washingtonians.

We have multiple jobs, including in-training career opportunities in Lynnwood and Everett, Washington state. These jobs are field-based. Travel is a function of the job and occurs multiple times per week. A hybrid telework schedule is available for these permanent and temporary (non-permanent) full-time vacancies upon completion of your training period.

Employees assigned to a Snohomish County duty station will receive a free Orca Card for transportation needs.

Some Of What You'll Do

• Conduct in-person, client-centered functional assessment interviews utilizing a laptop and software in the client’s places of residency (in-home, hospital, nursing home, residential facility, etc.)
• 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
• Coordinate with other community agencies and resources to develop plans that meet client needs
• Authorize appropriate services and payments
• Document contacts and situations; on occasion, prepare and provide testimony at hearings and legal proceedings
  
  

Who Should Apply

Professionals who are committed to advocating for the lives of others and have work experience and education in one of the following:

• A master's degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal justice, or a related field one year of a practicum or paid social service experience equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 1
• Or, a bachelor's degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal justice, or a related field two years of paid social service experience performing functions equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 1 (i.e., case management, supporting the needs of adults, providing resources to vulnerable populations)
• Or, one year as a Social Service Specialist 1 within DSHS and completion of the agency's Social Service Specialist training program
• Or, six years of professional/practical social service experience performing functions equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 1.
  
  

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 SSS3. Education and experience are the difference between qualifications at each level and are evaluated by the hiring team. Starting salary depends on your qualifications. Thoroughly submitted application documents will assist in determining your experience and education in this area.

Desired

• Oral and written communication skills to effectively communicate with management, peers, clients, and the public
• Learn and implement policies and procedures and flexibility to adapt to change
• Work with colleagues and clients from a wide variety of backgrounds, respecting differences in opinions and values
• Work independently, prioritize, and organize tasks and assignments to meet workload expectations
• Capable to problem solve and utilize critical thinking skills
• Experience working with vulnerable adults or people with disabilities
  
  

Along With Your Application, Please Include

• Resume
• Cover Letter
• Three Professional References
  
  

See Why People Like You Chose Careers With DSHS

To learn more about DSHS, go to www.dshs.wa.gov .

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.

If you have questions about the application process, email anthony.distefano@dshs.wa.gov and reference job number 00015

Supplemental Information

Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history will 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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