DSHS HCLA Adult Protective Services Investigator

About the role

Adult Protective Services (APS) is excited to offer multiple opportunities for experienced social service investigators to join our Home and Community Living Administration (HCLA) team as APS Investigators. In this role, you will independently investigate reports of abandonment, abuse, exploitation, neglect, and self-neglect affecting adults who require protective services, including people with developmental disabilities. Your work is essential in safeguarding others, ensuring their well-being, and connecting them with supportive resources that uphold their dignity and independence.

Responsibilities

• Make observations and conduct face-to-face interviews with alleged victims, alleged perpetrators, and other collateral contacts;
• Travel within communities to conduct investigations;
• Collect and evaluate relevant information to make decisions related to the investigation, services, and outcomes;
• Document all pertinent activity for each investigation and record this electronically using computer application systems;
• Collaborate with law enforcement, judicial entities, families, facilities, local office staff, other regional offices, and community agencies/partners regarding client needs;
• Identify and refer at-risk and vulnerable adults to appropriate service groups;
• Provide client advocacy, consultation, networking, family support, and crisis intervention;
• Prepare and provide testimony at administrative hearings, court proceedings, and at criminal, civil, and administrative proceedings.

Requirements

• Professionals with a bachelor’s degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice, education, healthcare, or another allied field;
• And two years of paid relevant work experience in social services, healthcare, education, criminal justice, or allied fields;
• Equivalent combination of education and/or work experience in social service allied fields totaling six years will substitute in lieu of degree requirement.

Qualifications

• A master’s practicum work will be substituted for one year of paid social service experience;
• Experience assessing risk and safety to vulnerable adults or children;
• Investigative work experience that includes research, observation, asking clarifying questions, and comparing stories;
• Capable of autonomous decision-making in critical or immediate safety situations, developing effective solutions;
• Experience using Microsoft Office, data-entry, and documentation skills;
• Exceptional critical thinking, time management, and focus;
• Apply empathy and adaptability to resolve tense situations effectively while maintaining focus and reducing risks;
• Proficient in Medicaid terminology, regulations, and policies;
• Highly adaptable to evolving policies and directions.

Skills

• Telework and/or flex work schedule may be considered after your training is completed.

Benefits

King County employees receive 5% premium pay in addition to the advertised salary. This position is also eligible to receive a free ORCA card for transportation use.

Pay

The salary range for this position is $50,000 - $65,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications.

Schedule

Daily travel is required. Some positions may involve unannounced visits in unregulated environments.