Kinship Care Licensing Supervisor | Social Service Supervisor 5 (SSS5) - Tacoma

Kinship Care Licensing Supervisor | Social Service Supervisor 5 (SSS5) - Tacoma

Salary

$80,496.00 - $108,228.00 Annually

Location

Pierce County - Tacoma, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

2026-07160

Department

Dept of Children, Youth, and Families

Division

Licensing

Opening Date

09/01/2026

Closing Date

9/11/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

Salary Information

The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Description

Our vision is to ensure that "All Washingtons children and youth grow up safe and healthy, thriving physically, emotionally, and educationally, nurtured by family and community".

Job Title: Kinship Care Licensing Supervisor | Social Service Supervisor 5 (SSS5)

Location: Tacoma, WA. Region 5. (Region Map). This is a hybrid position and requires reporting to the Tacoma office at least once per week.

Closes: Friday, September 11th, 2026

Salary: $80,496 - $108,228 Annually

This position supports the mission of the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) by helping protect children and strengthen families through the work of the Licensing Division's Kinship Care Licensing program. Kinship Care Licensing focuses on assessing and licensing relatives and other individuals with a significant relationship to a child who may provide care when the child cannot safely remain in their own home. In this role, you will supervise a team of Social Service Specialists who provide professional licensing services to kinship caregivers, including home studies and updates, licensing and renewal assessments, amendments, facility complaints, and health and safety monitoring visits. You will also provide advanced consultation and support on complex or high-profile cases involving children or vulnerable adults.

Click here to learn more about DCYF.

The Opportunity:

As a first-line supervisor, you will provide leadership, coaching, mentoring, and on-the-job training to Social Service Specialists while supporting their transition from formal training to independent fieldwork. You will conduct case reviews, facilitate meetings and case staffings, establish procedures that support efficient workflow, and provide final approval of staff work products.

You will also use planning, accountability, and tracking processes to ensure casework is completed in accordance with law, policy, and other requirements while supporting staff performance and development. A key part of this role is fostering a kin-first and culturally responsive approach, helping staff recognize and respect the strengths, heritage, values, and cultural identities of families while supporting children in maintaining meaningful connections to their families, cultures, and communities.

Some of what you will get to do:

• Perform supervisory personnel functions, including setting performance goals, performance evaluation, and scheduling staff for five (5) SSS3s.
• Prioritize and assigns work to a unit of Kinship Care Licensing staff who conduct kinship home studies, licenses, updates, renewals, amendments, licensing complaints and health and safety monitoring visits.
• Provide informal training regarding licensing functions and home study assessment requirements, licensing, maintenance and relicensing of kinship caregivers for staff, divisions, programs, the community or others, and arranges for formal agency training for staff.
• Develop onboarding training plans for incoming staff and assists the Social Service Specialist 4 with the delivery of onboarding training.
• Provide case consultation and reviews of home study assessments and reassessments.
• Conduct monthly reviews, case staffing, unit meetings, and other meetings as needed.
• Provide ongoing guidance to Kinship Care Licensors regarding home study/licensing process, policy, and procedure.
• Provide direct technical assistance to Social Service Specialists regarding the licensing and maintenance, support, retention and recruitment of kinship homes.
• Assist Kinship Care Licensors by providing training and technical assistance.
• Collaborate with the community, including the provider community, law enforcement, medical personnel and families of children in out-of-home care.
• Perform quality assurance on staff documentation, assessments, reports, case management and payment initiation.
• Provide the Area Administrator monthly statistical information for work pending and completed by staff.

Required Qualifications:

• Eight (8) years of paid social service experience* AND 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Services discipline.

OR

• A master's degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences or any master's degree which includes 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Services discipline AND Three (3) years of paid Social Service experience*.

OR

• A bachelors degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences or any bachelor's degree which includes 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Services discipline AND Four (4) years of paid Social Service experience*.

OR

• One (1) year of experience as a Social Service Specialist 4 (SSS4).

OR

• Two (2) years of experience as a Social Service Specialist 3 (SSS3).

AND

• The ability to take action to learn and grow.
• The ability to take action to meet the needs of others.

NOTE: A two-year masters degree in one of the above fields that included a practicum may be substituted for one (1) year of paid social service experience.

• Paid Social Service experience must include assessing risk and safety to children and providing direct family-centered practice services.

In addition to those required qualifications, our ideal applicant will also have previously demonstrated experience with:

• Supervise, teach and train staff.
• Manage a large volume of work.
• Communicate with other agencies and community groups.
• Communicate up and down the chain of command and develop and maintain effective working relationships with a wide range and level of staff.
• Evaluate job performance.
• Interview job applicants.
• Make professional judgments.
• Ability to work cooperatively with diverse populations.
• Working understanding of agency policies, WAC and RCW related to licensed facilities.
• Must be able to effectively, clearly and concisely communicate verbally and in writing with management, peers, clients, and the public as required to carry out the assigned duties of the position.
• Be skilled in the use of MS Office- Word, Outlook and Excel, FAMLINK and other databases used.

How do I apply?

In addition to completing the online application, please attach the following:

• College/University Transcripts - an unofficial copy is acceptable for application purposes.
• Cover Letter
• Resume

Supplemental Information:

The Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) is committed to Washington's children and youth growing up safe, healthy, and thriving. We invite all candidates to join us in our goal to create a diverse and equitable workplace that reflects the communities we serve. If you are excited about this role but you believe that your education and/or experience might not align perfectly with every qualification in the job posting, we encourage you to apply anyway.

The Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, race, creed, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran or military status, or the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability or the use of a trained service animal by a person with a disability.

This recruitment may be used to fill multiple vacancies.

Must successfully complete formal training courses as required by law, policy, and regional requirements within twelve months of initial appointment.

Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal history will be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicants suitability and competence to perform in the position.

This position requires a minimum of at least two years of driving experience and a valid driver's license.

This position is included in the supervisory bargaining unit represented by the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE). For more information: https://wfse.org/

If you need an accommodation throughout the application/interview process, contact DCYF Recruiter. If youre experiencing technical difficulties creating, accessing or completing your application, call NEOGOV toll-free at (855) 524-5627 or email support@neogov.com. Persons needing accommodation in the application process or this announcement in an alternative format may call the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) at 360-664-1960.

Degrees must be obtained from an accredited college or university whose accreditation is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), or a foreign equivalent verified by a NACES-approved organization at naces.org. Foreign Equivalency certification must be attached to the application for degrees obtained outside the U.S.

Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications and wish to claim Veterans Preference MUST attach a copy of their DD214, NGB Form 22 or Predischarge Certification (issued not more than 120 days prior to End of Term of Service (ETS) by date of submission). If claiming preference based on Predischarge Certification, individual will be required to provide their official discharge documentation, such as a DD form 214, NGB form 22, or equivalent, within 30 days after the date of discharge. Please blackout (redact) the social security number before attaching any documents. For additional information on Veterans Preference and guidance on how to determine if you are eligible, click here.

DCYF participates in the federal E-Verify program. The selected candidate must provide proof of identity and authorization to work in the United States, consistent with E-Verify requirements, on their first day of employment.

2026-07160

More than Just a Paycheck!

Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.

We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. Thats why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.

Read about our benefits:

The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.

Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.

Insurance Benefits

Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.

Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.

To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.

Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.

Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.

The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.

Retirement and Deferred Compensation

State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems web site.

Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.

Social Security

All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Holidays

Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.

Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.

Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.

Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.

Sick Leave

Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.

Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

Vacation (Annual Leave)

Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.

Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.

Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

As provided in WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.

Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.

Military Leave

Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.

Bereavement Leave

Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.

Additional Leave

Leave Sharing

Parental Leave

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 01-07-2026

01

The following questions will be used to verify qualifications and to determine the appropriate job classification. Any variation in your answers verified through the review process may delay your application. You will be asked to verify your education, experience, and the information provided on your online application, including your responses. Accuracy is essential.

• I have read and certify I understand the statement above.

02

Which of the following best describes how you meet the required education and paid social service experience for this position?

• I have eight (8) years of paid social service experience AND 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Services discipline.
• I have a master's degree as described in the required qualifications AND at least three (3) years of paid social service experience.
• I have a bachelor's degree as described in the required qualifications AND at least four (4) years of paid social service experience.
• I have at least one (1) year of experience as a Social Service Specialist 4 (SSS4).
• I have at least two (2) years of experience as a Social Service Specialist 3 (SSS3).
• I am already a Social Service Specialist 5.
• I do not meet any of the above.

03

Do you have at least one (1) year of paid experience assessing risk and safety to children and providing direct practice services that are family centered?

• Yes
• No

04

Please briefly describe the paid experience you referenced above, including your job title/position and the work you performed assessing risk and safety to children and providing direct practice services that are family centered. Your response should be reflected in the work history section of your application. If you answered "No" to the previous question, enter "N/A."

05

Which of the following best describes your experience applying policies, procedures, laws, or regulations related to child welfare, foster/kinship care, or licensed care settings?

• Extensive experience - I regularly interpret and apply requirements and provide guidance or consultation to others.
• Considerable experience - I independently interpret and apply requirements as a regular part of my work.
• Some experience - I have applied these requirements with guidance or consultation from others.
• Limited experience - I have exposure to this work but have not been responsible for independently applying requirements.
• I do not have this experience.

06

Which of the following best describes your experience reviewing the work of others and providing case consultation, quality assurance, or guidance on complex child welfare or social service cases?

• Extensive experience - this is/was a regular responsibility and included reviewing documentation or assessments, identifying concerns, providing consultation or direction, and ensuring work met policy or practice requirements.
• Considerable experience - I regularly performed several of these responsibilities.
• Some experience - I occasionally performed these responsibilities or assisted a supervisor/lead with this work.
• Limited experience - I have related experience but have not been responsible for reviewing or providing guidance on the work of others.
• I do not have this experience.

07

Which of the following best describes your experience performing quality assurance or reviewing the professional work of others to ensure documentation, assessments, or reports are accurate, complete, meet policy or practice requirements, and are professionally defensible?

• Extensive experience - This is/was a regular responsibility and included reviewing work for accuracy, completeness, policy or practice requirements, and professionally defensible conclusions, as well as providing corrective guidance when needed.
• Considerable experience - I regularly reviewed the work of others for accuracy, completeness, and compliance and provided feedback or recommendations.
• Some experience - I occasionally reviewed documentation, assessments, reports, or other professional work completed by others and provided feedback.
• Limited experience - I have related experience but have had limited responsibility for reviewing the professional work of others.
• I do not have this experience.

08

Please provide a brief example of a time you provided guidance, coaching, or consultation to an employee or colleague regarding a complex case, work product, or performance concern. What was the situation, what action did you take, and what was the outcome? If you do not have this experience, enter "N/A."

09

Please provide a specific example of how you managed competing priorities or deadlines while collaborating with others. Include how you prioritized the work, communicated with different levels of staff or leadership, and used teamwork or shared decision-making to achieve the outcome. If you do not have this experience, enter "N/A."

10

This position requires regular travel within the assigned service area, which may include traveling in the field to support staff and attending trainings and meetings in other locations. You must also report to the Tacoma office a minimum of one (1) day per week, or as business needs require. Are you willing and able to meet these requirements?

• Yes - I am willing and able.
• No - I am not willing and able.

11

Do you have a valid driver's license?

• Yes
• No

12

This position requires a criminal background check prior to employment. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicants suitability and competence to perform in the position. Are you willing to undergo a criminal background check as a condition of employment?

• Yes
• No

13

If claiming veterans preference in obtaining state employment, have you attached a redacted DD214, NGB22 or Predischarge Certification validating service type and discharge.

• Yes - DD214/NGB22
• Yes - Predischarge Certification (issued not more than 120 days prior to End of Term of Service (ETS) by date of submission).
• N/A

14

DCYF - How did you hear about this job opportunity?

• WWW.Careers.Wa.Gov
• WorkSource Center or Website (WorkSourceWA.com)
• Washington State Employee Referral
• DCYF Employee Referral
• DCYF Jobs Page
• Monster
• College/university career fair or website
• LinkedIn
• Facebook
• VERG
• Advertisement
• CareerBuilder
• Diversity Jobs
• Handshake
• Movie Theatre
• Other

Required Question

Employer State of Washington

Address View Job Posting for Agency Information

View Job Posting for Location, Washington, 98504

Website http://www.careers.wa.gov