Social Service Specialist 2

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, and 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. This is an opportunity to join us in our mission of Transforming Lives!

Pierce County employees are eligible to receive an Orca Card for transportation needs.

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 programs
* 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 assessments

What we're looking for:

* Ability to provide social services in person and remotely
* 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 situations
* 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

Professionals who have one of the following:

* Twelve months of experience as a Social Service Specialist 1; or
* A Bachelor's degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, or an allied field, and two years of paid social service experience performing functions equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 1; or
* A Master's degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, or an allied field and one year as a Social Service Specialist 1 or equivalent paid social service experience

Note: A two-year Master's degree in one of the above fields that included a practicum will be substituted for one year of paid social service experience.

Please complete an online application and include the following:

* A current resume
* Letter of interest
* Three professional references with current contact information

Our Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) mission to Transform 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 mission that you bring 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.

NOTE:

Employees of the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 as a condition of employment. Any offer of employment is contingent upon verification of your vaccine status. Please note medical or religious accommodation may be available once an offer of employment is made.



Questions? Please contact DSHS Recruiter by email and reference #04369.

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 . Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or



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