Social Service Program Specialist 3

This is a hybrid position and will work in the office 2 days a week based on business needs. Training may be in the office daily until after probation.

About the role

As a senior planning and development professional with experience in planning, development, and evaluation of social service programs, you will play a critical role as a member of the Aging and Disability Resources (ADR) Division team. You will engage with the community to ensure older adults, people with disabilities, and their caregivers can access the services and supports they need to thrive in the community. This is meaningful work where you can make a direct impact on community well-being.

Pierce County Human Services exists to ensure that every person in our community has the opportunity to live with dignity, stability, and hope. As the county’s community and human services department, we strengthen the local safety net by investing in programs that support people at every stage of life—from early childhood and youth development to housing stability, behavioral health, disability support, and services for seniors, veterans, immigrants, and refugees. Working alongside nearly 170 community-based organizations, local governments, and nonprofit partners, we respond to both urgent needs and long-term challenges with compassion, accountability, and collaboration. Whether helping families stay housed, supporting recovery and wellness, connecting people to food and transportation, or expanding access to opportunity, our work is grounded in the belief that strong communities are built when people are seen, supported, and empowered. Together with our partners, we are committed to creating an inclusive, responsive system of care that helps Pierce County residents not just survive—but thrive.

Responsibilities

• Develop program plans.
• Facilitate planning advisory board and public hearings/forums as appropriate.
• Coordinate citizen groups, service agencies, and other organizations involved in the planning process.
• Participate in local and statewide workgroups regarding planning and policy development.
• Assist Managers and Supervisors with overall policy development.
• Prepare special studies, reports, and statistical information necessary for future planning and community policy decisions.
• Keep current, review, and analyze local, state, and federal legislative issues and trends in the area of program assignment.

This announcement is not intended to reflect all duties to be performed by our next team member but presents a descriptive list of the range of duties that may be performed.

Requirements

• Graduation from a four-year college or university with a Bachelor’s degree in public or business administration, social work, or a related field.
• Three (3) years of professional social services work experience which includes work with related programs, contracts, planning, or services.
• A valid driver’s license is required when using a county vehicle.
• As a condition of employment, the applicant will need to authorize and complete a background check. Information received from the background check is reviewed on a case-by-case basis and will not necessarily remove an applicant from consideration.

Additional education or experience may substitute for the recruiting requirements. A resume and cover letter are required for this position. Applications without a resume and cover letter will not be considered.

Skills

• Strong facilitation skills required for community engagement and coordination efforts.
• Project planning skills necessary to develop/implement strategic plans responding to the needs of older adults and adults with disabilities.
• Ability to work within a team and build strong collaborative relationships with community partners to provide high-quality services and supports.
• Comfortable working in a hybrid work environment.

Benefits

Pierce County is committed to your growth and success. Through leadership classes, robust online learning, and a variety of training opportunities, Pierce County ensures continuous professional development. This dedication extends beyond individual advancement; it reflects a broader mission to foster inclusive communities, maintain safe infrastructure, and promote equitable access to opportunities.