DSHS HCLA Social Service Specialist 2

About the role

The WA Cares Fund is the first of its kind in the United States, showcasing why Washington State leads the nation in long-term care initiatives. Created by the WA State Legislature, the WA Cares Fund (WCF) offers affordable long-term care insurance coverage to all working Washingtonians. This is a rare opportunity to become one of the founding team members as we introduce the nation’s first long-term services and supports social insurance program.

As a WA Cares Fund Assessor Specialist, you’ll meet people both in-person and remote to conduct long-term care functional assessments under the WA Cares Fund program. Whether it’s in their home, a hospital room, a nursing facility, or a residential care setting, you’ll conduct thoughtful, compassionate assessments to help determine their eligibility for self-directed long-term care services.

Responsibilities

• Conduct in-person and remote functional assessments to determine long-term care needs and WA Cares Fund eligibility.
• Interpret assessment findings and personal information to approve or deny WA Cares Fund services.
• Develop and implement individualized service plans that guide long-term care supports.
• Educate individuals, families, professionals, and the public about long-term care options, program benefits, rates, and limitations.
• Provide guidance on provider enrollment, service search processes, and rate-setting best practices.
• Counsel families on qualified caregiver requirements, payment options, and available legal or informational resources.
• Refer individuals to community resources or alternative programs when WA Cares Fund is not pursued.
• Ensure accurate, timely documentation and data entry while responding to administrative requests.
• Make referrals to Adult Protective Services or investigative bodies when safety concerns arise.
• Adapt priorities and workflows to address emergencies, coverage needs, and support individuals in remaining safely in their communities.

Requirements

• Twelve months as a Social Service Specialist 1 plus completion of the agency’s Social Service Specialist training program within 12 months.
• 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.
• 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.
• Six years of professional/practical experience performing functions equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 1.

Skills

• Communicate clearly and professionally with clients, coworkers, supervisors, and community partners, both verbally and in writing.
• Conduct telephonic assessments using department tools and technology while maintaining accuracy and professionalism.
• Apply knowledge of social casework principles, Medicaid laws, and long-term care policies to assess needs and develop service plans.
• Build effective relationships with clients and families, linking them to community resources and resolving issues with providers.
• Demonstrate sound judgment in triaging referrals, analyzing problems, and developing effective solutions.
• Adapt to change with flexibility and respect for diverse values, cultures, and perspectives.
• Use evidence-based practices, critical thinking, and technology tools such as Microsoft Office to support client independence and maintain timely documentation.