Social Service Specialist in Training: Empower Families

State of Washington; Kent (WA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

State of Washington in Kent, WA is seeking a Social Service Specialist 1-2 in training to manage a caseload, assess needs, and build individual plans for clients pursuing WorkFirst goals. You will connect clients to services, review medical records for disability eligibility, and guide SSI application processes with collaboration across partners.

This on-site role emphasizes outreach, home visits when needed, and active participation in team meetings and trainings.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or higher in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice, or a closely related field; OR a combination of education and/or relevant experience totaling four or more years.
• SSS2 requires: master's degree and one year paid social service experience; OR bachelor's degree and two years paid social service experience; OR other equivalent combinations.

Responsibilities

• Meet WorkFirst applicants and recipients to assess education, work history, living situation, and health.
• Build individual responsibility plans based on assessments and medical records.
• Refer to services such as mental health, housing, education, and job search support.
• Visit clients at home or another location when needed.
• Lead WorkFirst orientations explaining program rules and services.
• Assess health limitations to determine disability-related eligibility.
• Create and monitor case plans to promote self-sufficiency.
• Record case activity in electronic management systems.
• Attend team meetings and required trainings.

Skills

Caseload management

Client-focused planning

Clear communication

Assessment & decision-making

Regulatory proficiency

Adaptability & conflict management

Education

Bachelor's degree or higher

4+ years combined education/experience

Master's degree (related field) + 1 year experience

Bachelor's degree + 2 years paid experience

Job description

State of Washington in Kent, WA is seeking a Social Service Specialist 1-2 in training to manage a caseload, assess needs, and build individual plans for clients pursuing WorkFirst goals. You will connect clients to services, review medical records for disability eligibility, and guide SSI application processes with collaboration across partners.

This on-site role emphasizes outreach, home visits when needed, and active participation in team meetings and trainings.