State of Washington
DSHS HCLA Social Service Specialist 3
State of Washington, Walla Walla, Washington, United States
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DSHS HCLA – Social Service Specialist 3 Join our team as a Social Service Specialist 3 with the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) in Region 1, working out of Wenatchee and Moses Lake, WA! In this key role within the Home and Community Living Administration (HCLA), Home and Community Services (HCS), you will assess, create, and develop care plans and determine nursing facility level of care required for clients. This position is at the specialist level and independently provides intensive and expert services to a population of high risk and frail adults who are medically and financially dependent and in need of the full range of HCS services. This population includes clients who are at a high risk of being placed in an institutional setting.
Description This position works effectively and collaboratively with our community agency and residential partners, fostering good communication and demonstrating reliability. Strong organizational skills to manage a large volume of new referrals, provide ongoing case management to their residential clients, and provide diversion activities to prevent hospitalizations or nursing facility placements.
Some Of What You'll Do
Conduct functional assessments using the Comprehensive Assessment Reporting and Evaluation (CARE) tool to determine clients’ level of care and eligibility for long‑term services and supports. Assessments are conducted in the client's home, whether that is an in‑home or residential setting
Develop individualized, client‑centered service plans in collaboration with clients and/or their representatives
Determine eligibility and authorize services for Home and Community Services (HCS) programs such as Medicaid Personal Care (MPC), Community First Choice (CFC), Community Options Program Entry System (COPES), the Residential Support Waiver (RSW), and other long‑term care programs and residential placements
Provide ongoing case management to support clients in maintaining independence, resolving issues, and preventing unnecessary hospitalization or facility placement
Assist clients with financial eligibility, benefit applications, and determining cost of care; authorize payment for approved long‑term care services
Document assessments, case management activities, and service authorizations using CARE, ProviderOne, ACES, Barcode, and other department systems
Collaborate with team members, community partners, and collateral contacts; participate in required training, meetings, and professional development activities
Desired Skills, Knowledge, And Abilities
Effectively communicate orally and in writing with clients, families, peers, management, and external partners; conduct client interviews, including with interpreters, and compose professional correspondence
Conduct assessments using the CARE tool and other agency systems to evaluate client needs and determine eligibility for long‑term care programs
Develop individualized, client‑centered care plans, link clients to agency and community resources, and provide ongoing case management to support independence and well‑being
Apply social casework principles and knowledge of Medicaid laws, regulations, and long‑term care program policies to make informed client service decisions
Navigate and utilize agency computer systems, including ACES, ProviderOne, Outlook/email, Barcode Document Management System, and basic office software for documentation and communication
Analyze client, program, and service issues, resolve conflicts, and implement practical solutions while maintaining professionalism, objectivity, and confidentiality
Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, external agencies, and community partners; follow departmental policies, manuals, and procedures to support the mission and goals of the department
Who should apply? We are seeking professionals who meet one of the following qualifications:
One year as a Social Service Specialist 2; OR
A Master’s in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice, or a related field plus one year of paid social service experience equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 2; OR
A Bachelor’s in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice, or a related field plus two years of paid social service experience performing functions equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 2
An equivalent combination of education and/or work experience in social services, human services, criminal law/justice, or a related field, totaling six years.
Additional Information
A two‑year Master’s degree in the above fields that included a practicum can substitute for one year of paid social service experience
Employees must successfully complete the formal division‑sponsored training course within 12 months of appointment
Paid social service experience must include assessing risk and safety for elderly and vulnerable adults and providing direct family‑centered practice services
Work schedule: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday
About HCLA And HCS The Home and Community Living Administration (HCLA) oversees Washington state’s nationally recognized system of long‑term services and supports for older adults and people with disabilities. This includes home and community‑based care, protections against abuse and neglect, regulatory oversight of licensed settings, and case management services. Within HCLA, the Home and Community Services (HCS) Division plans, develops, and provides long‑term care services, including Medicaid‑funded programs, to help individuals live as independently as possible in their communities.
Ready to start a rewarding career? Apply today! Along With Your Application, Please Include
An updated resume
Three professional references with contact information
Questions? Please reach out to
sharon.sterling@dshs.wa.gov
or call Talent Acquisition main line (360) 725‑5810 and reference job number 08733.
Our Commitment to Equality The Department of Social and Health Services’ (DSHS) vision that people find human services to shape their own 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 vision that you bring a fairness, access, and social justice commitment to your work with DSHS. We strive to support all Washingtonians, 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.
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.
Equal Opportunity Employer 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.
E‑Verify® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security
Benefits Insurance Benefits Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state. Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax‑deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long‑term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs. Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre‑tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses. Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction. The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well‑being of employees.
Retirement And Deferred Compensation State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees’ Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems’ web site. Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre‑tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Social Security All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness If you are employed by a government or not‑for‑profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Holidays Full‑time and part‑time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year. Employees who are members of certain unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information. Full‑time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 non‑overtime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday. Part‑time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro‑rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full‑time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.
Sick Leave Full‑time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full‑time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave. Sick leave accruals for part‑time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full‑time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
Vacation (Annual Leave) Full‑time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357‑31‑165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full‑time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 non‑overtime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave. Part‑time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357‑31‑165(1) or the applicable CBA on a pro‑rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full‑time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday. As provided in WAC 357‑58‑175, an employer may authorize a lump‑sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357‑31‑165.
Military Leave Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.
Bereavement Leave Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.
Additional Leave Leave Sharing | Parental Leave | Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) | Leave Without Pay | Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 07-21-2025
Practice question (role qualification)
I have at least one year of experience as a Social Service Specialist 2.
I have a Master’s degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice, or a related field, plus one year of paid social service experience equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 2.
I have a Bachelor’s degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice, or a related field, plus two years of paid social service experience performing duties equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 2.
I have an equivalent combination of education and/or work experience in social services, human services, criminal law/justice, or a related field, totaling six years.
None of the above.
Required Question
Seniority level: Entry level
Employment type: Full‑time
Job function: Other
Industries: Government Administration
Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at State of Washington by 2x
Job alerts for “Social Services Specialist” roles. Other job listings After Hours On‑Call Social Service Specialist 2‑3 (SSS3) - Region 4/Kent After Hours Social Service Specialist In‑Training 1‑3 (SSS3) - Ellensburg Social Service Specialist 1‑3 In‑Training (SSS3) - Region 5/Pierce & Kitsap County Social Service Specialist 2‑3 In‑Training (SSS3) - Region 4/ King County Social Service Specialist 2‑3 In‑Training (SSS3) - Region 3/NW Washington Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) Specialist DSHS BHHA Developmental Disabilities Administrator Grievance Resolution Coordinator - Program Specialist 3 (PS3) - Snoqualmie Child Care Licensor | Social & Health Program Consultant 2 (SHPC2) - Everett Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC) with Security Clearance Corrections Specialist 2 Re‑entry Care Coordinator - WCC Administrative Assistant 1 (AA1) - Clarkston State Opioid Response (SOR) Treatment Specialist (HCPS/DBHR) - Project
We’re unlocking community knowledge in a new way. Experts add insights directly into each article, started with the help of AI.
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Get AI-powered advice on this job and more exclusive features.
DSHS HCLA – Social Service Specialist 3 Join our team as a Social Service Specialist 3 with the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) in Region 1, working out of Wenatchee and Moses Lake, WA! In this key role within the Home and Community Living Administration (HCLA), Home and Community Services (HCS), you will assess, create, and develop care plans and determine nursing facility level of care required for clients. This position is at the specialist level and independently provides intensive and expert services to a population of high risk and frail adults who are medically and financially dependent and in need of the full range of HCS services. This population includes clients who are at a high risk of being placed in an institutional setting.
Description This position works effectively and collaboratively with our community agency and residential partners, fostering good communication and demonstrating reliability. Strong organizational skills to manage a large volume of new referrals, provide ongoing case management to their residential clients, and provide diversion activities to prevent hospitalizations or nursing facility placements.
Some Of What You'll Do
Conduct functional assessments using the Comprehensive Assessment Reporting and Evaluation (CARE) tool to determine clients’ level of care and eligibility for long‑term services and supports. Assessments are conducted in the client's home, whether that is an in‑home or residential setting
Develop individualized, client‑centered service plans in collaboration with clients and/or their representatives
Determine eligibility and authorize services for Home and Community Services (HCS) programs such as Medicaid Personal Care (MPC), Community First Choice (CFC), Community Options Program Entry System (COPES), the Residential Support Waiver (RSW), and other long‑term care programs and residential placements
Provide ongoing case management to support clients in maintaining independence, resolving issues, and preventing unnecessary hospitalization or facility placement
Assist clients with financial eligibility, benefit applications, and determining cost of care; authorize payment for approved long‑term care services
Document assessments, case management activities, and service authorizations using CARE, ProviderOne, ACES, Barcode, and other department systems
Collaborate with team members, community partners, and collateral contacts; participate in required training, meetings, and professional development activities
Desired Skills, Knowledge, And Abilities
Effectively communicate orally and in writing with clients, families, peers, management, and external partners; conduct client interviews, including with interpreters, and compose professional correspondence
Conduct assessments using the CARE tool and other agency systems to evaluate client needs and determine eligibility for long‑term care programs
Develop individualized, client‑centered care plans, link clients to agency and community resources, and provide ongoing case management to support independence and well‑being
Apply social casework principles and knowledge of Medicaid laws, regulations, and long‑term care program policies to make informed client service decisions
Navigate and utilize agency computer systems, including ACES, ProviderOne, Outlook/email, Barcode Document Management System, and basic office software for documentation and communication
Analyze client, program, and service issues, resolve conflicts, and implement practical solutions while maintaining professionalism, objectivity, and confidentiality
Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, external agencies, and community partners; follow departmental policies, manuals, and procedures to support the mission and goals of the department
Who should apply? We are seeking professionals who meet one of the following qualifications:
One year as a Social Service Specialist 2; OR
A Master’s in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice, or a related field plus one year of paid social service experience equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 2; OR
A Bachelor’s in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice, or a related field plus two years of paid social service experience performing functions equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 2
An equivalent combination of education and/or work experience in social services, human services, criminal law/justice, or a related field, totaling six years.
Additional Information
A two‑year Master’s degree in the above fields that included a practicum can substitute for one year of paid social service experience
Employees must successfully complete the formal division‑sponsored training course within 12 months of appointment
Paid social service experience must include assessing risk and safety for elderly and vulnerable adults and providing direct family‑centered practice services
Work schedule: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday
About HCLA And HCS The Home and Community Living Administration (HCLA) oversees Washington state’s nationally recognized system of long‑term services and supports for older adults and people with disabilities. This includes home and community‑based care, protections against abuse and neglect, regulatory oversight of licensed settings, and case management services. Within HCLA, the Home and Community Services (HCS) Division plans, develops, and provides long‑term care services, including Medicaid‑funded programs, to help individuals live as independently as possible in their communities.
Ready to start a rewarding career? Apply today! Along With Your Application, Please Include
An updated resume
Three professional references with contact information
Questions? Please reach out to
sharon.sterling@dshs.wa.gov
or call Talent Acquisition main line (360) 725‑5810 and reference job number 08733.
Our Commitment to Equality The Department of Social and Health Services’ (DSHS) vision that people find human services to shape their own 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 vision that you bring a fairness, access, and social justice commitment to your work with DSHS. We strive to support all Washingtonians, 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.
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.
Equal Opportunity Employer 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.
E‑Verify® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security
Benefits Insurance Benefits Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state. Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax‑deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long‑term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs. Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre‑tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses. Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction. The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well‑being of employees.
Retirement And Deferred Compensation State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees’ Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems’ web site. Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre‑tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Social Security All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness If you are employed by a government or not‑for‑profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Holidays Full‑time and part‑time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year. Employees who are members of certain unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information. Full‑time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 non‑overtime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday. Part‑time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro‑rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full‑time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.
Sick Leave Full‑time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full‑time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave. Sick leave accruals for part‑time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full‑time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
Vacation (Annual Leave) Full‑time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357‑31‑165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full‑time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 non‑overtime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave. Part‑time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357‑31‑165(1) or the applicable CBA on a pro‑rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full‑time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday. As provided in WAC 357‑58‑175, an employer may authorize a lump‑sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357‑31‑165.
Military Leave Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.
Bereavement Leave Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.
Additional Leave Leave Sharing | Parental Leave | Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) | Leave Without Pay | Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 07-21-2025
Practice question (role qualification)
I have at least one year of experience as a Social Service Specialist 2.
I have a Master’s degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice, or a related field, plus one year of paid social service experience equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 2.
I have a Bachelor’s degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice, or a related field, plus two years of paid social service experience performing duties equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 2.
I have an equivalent combination of education and/or work experience in social services, human services, criminal law/justice, or a related field, totaling six years.
None of the above.
Required Question
Seniority level: Entry level
Employment type: Full‑time
Job function: Other
Industries: Government Administration
Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at State of Washington by 2x
Job alerts for “Social Services Specialist” roles. Other job listings After Hours On‑Call Social Service Specialist 2‑3 (SSS3) - Region 4/Kent After Hours Social Service Specialist In‑Training 1‑3 (SSS3) - Ellensburg Social Service Specialist 1‑3 In‑Training (SSS3) - Region 5/Pierce & Kitsap County Social Service Specialist 2‑3 In‑Training (SSS3) - Region 4/ King County Social Service Specialist 2‑3 In‑Training (SSS3) - Region 3/NW Washington Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) Specialist DSHS BHHA Developmental Disabilities Administrator Grievance Resolution Coordinator - Program Specialist 3 (PS3) - Snoqualmie Child Care Licensor | Social & Health Program Consultant 2 (SHPC2) - Everett Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC) with Security Clearance Corrections Specialist 2 Re‑entry Care Coordinator - WCC Administrative Assistant 1 (AA1) - Clarkston State Opioid Response (SOR) Treatment Specialist (HCPS/DBHR) - Project
We’re unlocking community knowledge in a new way. Experts add insights directly into each article, started with the help of AI.
#J-18808-Ljbffr