Salary: $5,779.00 - $7,774.00 Monthly
Location : Spokane County - Spokane, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number:Department: Dept. of Social and Health Services
Division: HCLA
Opening Date: 08/31/2026
Closing Date: 9/7/2026 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 3The Home and Community Living Administration (HCLA) is hiring a dedicated
Social Service Specialist 3 to join our Behavioral Support Team in Spokane, WA.
This work supports the vision of the Home and Community Living Administration (HCLA) to have seniors and people with disabilities living with good health, independence, dignity, and control over the decisions that affect their lives.
This position is field-based, and travel is a function of the job that occurs weekly.
In this role, you will have the opportunity to meet with people with disabilities and the elderly, particularly those of low-income, determine eligibility through a comprehensive assessment, and develop a plan of care and eligibility for clients in-home or residential facilities. Your reward is in knowing that the tailored wraparound services that you provide are effective in the lives of others. These amazing career opportunities offer you the ability to grow with DSHS and join a dedicated team focused on protecting Washingtonians in Region 1.
Some of what you'll do:- Conduct in-person, client-centered functional assessment interviews utilizing a laptop and software, in the client's homes or residential facility.
- Determine eligibility for the Community First Choice, Community Options Program Entry Systems, Medicaid Personal Care, or other applicable programs.
- Develop appropriate ongoing, individualized service plans in collaboration with clients and representatives to meet the needs of the client.
- As a client advocate, coordinate client needs with families, facilities, and community resources, as well as consultation, networking, family support, and crisis intervention.
- Provide case management to high-risk adults whose need is part of a service plan developed following an adult protective service investigation.
- Authorize appropriate services and payments.
- Document contacts and situations; on occasion, prepare and provide testimony at hearings and legal proceedings.
Who should apply?Professionals who are committed to advocating for the lives of others and have work experience and education in one of the following:
- One year as a Social Service Specialist 2.
OR
- A Master's degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice or an allied field and one year of paid social service experience equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 2.
OR
- A Bachelor's degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice or an allied field, and two years of paid social service experience performing functions equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 2.
OR
- Six (6) to Seven (7) years of professional/practical experience working directly in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice, with an emphasis in specialized case management involving disabled or vulnerable adults.
Note: A two-year Master's degree in one of the above fields that included a practicum will be substituted for one year of paid social service experience.
Preferred knowledge, skills, and abilities:- Understanding of Medicaid and/or medical terminology, policy implementation.
- A high degree of mindfulness.
- Effective and flexible communication with clients, representatives, and community partners.
- Conduct work in the home environments of clients, with a diverse caseload.
- Effective multi-task using strong time management, organizational, and critical thinking skills to meet deadlines, maintain flexibility, and provide solutions.
- Completion of comprehensive assessments and development of individualized service plans.
- Understanding of Medicaid and/or medical terminology, policy implementation.
To learn more about DSHS, go to
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 DSHS Recruiter Saleen Hernandez at and reference job number
#07045.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.
