Salary: $5,779.00 - $7,774.00 Monthly
Location : King County - Renton, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number:Department: Dept. of Social and Health Services
Division: HCLA
Opening Date: 07/29/2026
Closing Date: 8/9/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
Salary Information: The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step
Description DSHS HCLA Social Service Specialist 3 - Transition and Sustainability SMEThe Department of Social and Health Services' (DSHS), Home and Community Living Administration (HCLA), is seeking a Social Service Specialist 3 to support adults with disabilities who are transitioning from institutional settings and/or in need of sustainability services.
This position performs advanced level specialized case management duties. This position is effective at offering and utilizing all services and supports available (i.e. Community Choice Guide, Client Training, Housing, NED Vouchers, Bridge Acute hospital, GOSH, etc.) to assist in relocations to community settings based on the client's choice and preferences.
This position requires excellent organizational skills as they will often actively working with many different clients at different stages of transition and stabilization. You will engage directly with adults and, when appropriate, their representatives and various case managers to understand what matters most to them, support client centered informed decision-making, and help align available services with individual preferences whenever possible.
Note: King County employees receive 5% premium pay in addition to the advertised salary and are eligible to receive a free ORCA card for transportation use.
Some of what you'll do:- Maintain expert knowledge of Transition and Sustainability Services offered by HCLA/HCS.
- Ensure program criteria is met for enrollment and spending limits are followed per policy.
- Provide information on Transition and Sustainability Services in trainings, unit meetings, and individually.
- Coordinate with regional SME's and Supervisors to identify and address training needs for staff and providers. Participate in the development of training curriculum and informative tools regarding Transitional and Sustainability Services.
- Consult and collaborate with case managers, supervisors, Program Managers, and Social and Health Program Consultants regarding client cases.
- Input and modify ProviderOne payment authorizations for all Region 2 Centralized Providers.
- Maintain expert knowledge of the ProviderOne payment system and how it interfaces with CARE and ACES.
- Provide auxiliary case management services to clients meeting criteria set forth in the HCLA Long Term Care Manual and policies during and sometimes immediately after community transition.
Who should apply? We are looking for professionals with:- One year of experience as a
OR - A master's degree* in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice, or a related field, and one year of paid social service experience** equivalent to a
OR - 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
OR - An equivalent combination of education in social services, human services, criminal law/justice, or a related field, AND paid social service work experience** totaling at least six years.
*A two-year master's degree in one of the above fields that included a practicum may substitute for one year of paid social service experience.
Additional knowledge, skills, and abilities we are looking for:- Person-centered engagement: Ability to listen attentively to adults and their representatives, understand their preferences and priorities, and support informed choices within program requirements
- Assessment and evaluation: Using comprehensive functional assessments, gathering relevant information, and determining eligibility, level of care, and service need as it pertains to transition out of institutional medical settings.
- Service planning and case management: Assist and advise in developing individualized service plans, coordinating long-term care services, and providing ongoing support to promote stability and independence
- Policy application: Interpreting and applying Medicaid regulations, long-term care policies, and social service principles to ensure accurate and consistent decisions
- Problem solving: Analyzing complex situations, resolving service-related issues, and implementing practical solutions while maintaining objectivity and confidentiality
- Technology use: Navigating CARE, ACES, ProviderOne, Barcode, and other systems to document work, manage caseloads, and support service delivery
- Collaboration: Working effectively with multidisciplinary teams and community partners while following departmental policies, procedures, and manuals
About HCLA and HCS The (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 (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.
Interested? Apply today!
Questions? Email the recruiter at and reference job number 06056.
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 InformationPrior 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.
