DSHS ESA Social Service Specialist 3

About the role

The Economic Services Administration (ESA), Community Services Division is currently seeking a Social Service Specialist 3, SSIF Lead Worker for Region 3. In this position, you’ll take on a critical role through guiding and supporting a team of SSI Facilitators throughout Region 3.

Responsibilities

• Provide oversight and guidance in reviewing and assigning work, ensuring case actions are aligned with policy and procedures.
• Serve as the subject matter expert (SME) for SSI Facilitation services.
• Maintain current knowledge on changes in procedures and policy by staying current on clarifications, and revisions to EAZ Manual, WF Handbook, SS Manual, CSD Procedures, etc.
• Contribute to lobby coverage across Region 3 CSO’s, work batch and/or assignments when needed or as assigned.
• Audit and review the work of SSI Facilitation staff. Establish reports and recommendations to supervisor regarding staff progress.
• Detect error trends through audits to identify training needs.
• Provide training and mentoring to SSIFs, ensuring they are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills.
• Maintain and review procedures for efficient workflow.
• Review cases and independently analyze case actions for accuracy.
• Contact staff, agencies and the community as necessary for clarifying information.
• Investigate and resolve customer complaints.
• Offer feedback and consultation to staff while guiding them through complex situations.
• Coach and provide day-to-day support and on-the-job training for staff, following the Job Coach Guide for staff in training.

Requirements

• One year as a Social Service Specialist 2.
• A master's degree* in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice, or an allied field and one year of paid social service experience equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 2.
• A bachelor's degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice, or an allied field, and two years of paid social service experience performing functions equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 2.
• Equivalent education/experience totaling at least 6 years.
• A two-year master's degree in one of the above fields that include a practicum will be substituted for one year of paid social service experience.
• Paid Social Service experience must include assessing risk and safety to children and/or adults and providing direct family-centered practice services.

Qualifications

• Technical knowledge: Applies extensive knowledge of the Social Security application process to guide clients and staff.
• Leadership: Guides team members with confidence, offering direction and support as this role grows into a leadership position.
• Equity: Brings awareness and sensitivity to diversity and cultural differences when working with clients and staff.
• Professional respect: Treats DSHS staff and the public with courtesy, concern, and responsiveness in every interaction.
• Collaboration: Works well with diverse teams across local, state, and federal levels.
• Organization: Keeps tasks, deadlines, and priorities in order to keep the work moving smoothly.
• Problem solving: Resolves conflicts and de-escalates tense situations with sound judgment.
• Adaptability: Manages multiple tasks and adjusts quickly when priorities change.
• Communication: Coaches and trains staff clearly and collaborates with local office teams.

Benefits

After the first six-months in this position, you may be able to work a flexible/hybrid schedule based on business needs. The nearest Region 3 office to your location may be assigned your duty station. Region 3 covers the following counties: Clark, Clallam, Cowlitz, Grays Harbor, Jefferson, Kitsap, Lewis, Mason, Pacific, Pierce, Skamania, Thurston, and Wahkiakum.

Pay

The salary range for this position is $49,223.00 - $65,837.00 annually.

Schedule

This position is expected to work a standard full-time schedule of 40 hours per week.