Description

DSHS ESA Social Service Specialist 2

The Community Services Division of DSHS' Economic Services Administration is seeking four permanent Social Service Specialist 2’s for the Region 3 SSI Facilitation Team, this role is connected to Region 3, and based at the Community Service Offices (CSO). The locations are Chehalis, Bremerton, Pierce South Community Service Office and Pierce North Community Service office.

In this role, you will provide support and facilitation for those TANF and Aged, Blind, Disabled (ABD) clients needing assistance with applying for federal disability benefits, specifically Social Security Income and Social Security Disability. Your knowledge and experience will help support our mission to Transforms Lives.

The Social Service Specialist provides case management to individuals with varying degrees of vocational, social, medical, or mental health conditions that hinder economic independence. This position specifically assists customers with applying for Social Security benefits and works with a range of individuals, including single and parenting adults receiving cash assistance programs.

Some of what you'll do:

• Facilitate the application process for TANF and ABD clients by assisting them to complete the Social Security application and monitoring application timelines
• Reviewing complex medical evidence
• Documenting medical and social service information in DSHS electronic case records and Social Security web-based application systems: monitoring case progress in both systems
• Serves as liaison for the client and work collaboratively with DDS, SSADO, medical providers, attorneys, CSO based social workers, etc.
• Track outcomes for facilitation; prepare reports and analysis for local, regional and statewide data purposes.
• Document all assessment and case management services to appropriate electronic case management systems

What we're looking for:

• Familiarity with the Social Security Income/Social Security Disability Income application process
• Knowledge of Community Service Office (CSO) programs including ABD and TANF
• Experience with Microsoft Office and preferred experience with ACES Online, eJas and Barcode
• Ability to work collaboratively
• Organizational skills
• Problem solving and conflict resolution skills
• Ability to multitask in an environment of change
• Effective communication skills, both verbally and in writing
• Awareness and sensitivity to diversity and cultural differences when engaging with clients

Who should apply?

• Twelve months as a Social Service Specialist 1 and completion of the Social Service Specialist training program

OR

• 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

OR

• 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

Please include the following:

• Current Resume
• Cover letter addressing why your qualifications make you the ideal candidate for this role
• Three professional references with current contact information
• Location preference 1st and 2nd

Our Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) mission to Transform 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 mission that you bring an equity, anti-racism and social justice commitment to your work with DSHS. We strive to create greater access and affirming representation of the communities we serve, 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.

Questions about this opportunity? Please contact DSHS Recruiter by email and reference 17111.

Note: Employees of the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 as a condition of employment. Any offer of employment is contingent upon verification of your vaccine status. Please note medical or religious accommodation may be available once an offer of employment is made.

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.

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