Job Description

Posting number: 2026-06838

Department: Dept. of Social and Health Services

Division: ESA

Job classification: SOCIAL SERVICE SPECIALIST 2

Posting type: Open & Promotional

Categories: Social Services, Human Services, Community and Social Services, Financial Aid & Services

DSHS ESA 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, 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.

Note:

• This is an on-site role, requiring hands-on outreach and collaboration with clients and community partners.
• Pierce County employees are eligible to receive an Orca Card for transportation needs.

See why people like you chose careers with DSHS:
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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.
  
  

We're looking for applicants who demonstrate:

• 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.
  
  

Who should apply?
This position may be filled at the Social Service Specialist 1 (SSS1) or Social Service Specialist 2 (SSS2) level, depending on qualifications.

Social Service Specialist 1 (SSS1)

• A bachelor’s degree or higher in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice, or a closely related field;
  OR
• A combination of education and/or relevant experience totaling four or more years.

Note: Employees must successfully complete the division-sponsored training program within 18 months of appointment.

Social Service Specialist 2 (SSS2)

• Twelve months of experience as a Social Service Specialist 1 and completion of the agency’s Social Service Specialist training program;
  OR
• A master’s degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice, or a closely related field, and one year of paid social service experience equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 1;
  OR
• A bachelor’s degree in one of the above fields, and two years of paid social service experience equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 1.
  
  

Additional Information:

• Relevant professional experience may substitute for education on a year-for-year basis.
• A two-year master’s degree that included a practicum may substitute for one year of required experience.
• Employees must successfully complete the formal training program within one year of appointment.
  
  

Ready to start a rewarding career? Apply today!
Along with your application, please include:

• An updated resume
• A cover letter
• Three professional references with contact information
  
  

Questions?
Please reach out to DSHS Recruiter Vincent Hamilton at vincent.hamilton@dshs.wa.gov and reference job number #06838.

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 a fairness, access, and social justice commitment to your work with DSHS. We strive to support all Washingtonians, 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.

Relationship and Reporting Structure (Nepotism) Disclosure: If you are selected for hire, you must disclose whether you have a relative, household member, close friend, or romantic partner within your potential supervisory chain of command. DSHS has a Relationships and the Reporting Structure policy that prohibits nepotism and can be reviewed here Applicants whose appointment would result in a prohibited reporting relationship are not eligible for appointment to that position.

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