What are the responsibilities and job description for the CFWS EFC Social Service Specialist 3 (SSS3) - Yakima position at State of Washington?
Description
Our vision is to ensure that “Washington state’s children and youth grow up safe and healthy— thriving physically, emotionally, and academically, nurtured by family and community."
Job Title: CFWS EFC Social Service Specialist 3 (SSS3)
Location: Yakima, WA (Opportunity to telework up to 3 days per week as long as office coverage and needs are met.)
Closes: 9/3025
Salary: $5666 - $7622 Monthly
DCYF is looking for a Child and Family Welfare Services (CFWS) Extended Foster Care (EFC) Social Service Specialist to join our to Region 2 team based out of the Yakima Office, that has the potential to cover cases throughout Region 2. If you would like to come and join our amazing team and build a career making a significant difference in the lives of children, apply today.
For a detailed view of DCYF's regional boundaries, Click Here.
Click here to learn more about DCYF.
The Opportunity
This position performs advanced levels of specialized case management in the Child and Family Welfare Services (CFWS)/Extended Foster Care (EFC) youth for Region 2, primarily the Yakima area. The CFWS/EFC Social Service Specialist will have expert knowledge of the EFC program, policy, and law to assist field offices by providing information and expert collaboration regarding the EFC program.
Some Of What You'll Do
As a Social Service Specialist, you are required to successfully complete a mandatory 9.5-week Worker Core Training (WCT). This training provides the foundational knowledge and skills needed to perform core job functions, including assessing risk and safety, supporting child well-being, gathering information, and conducting case and permanency planning. During the training, you will have opportunities to practice these skills through classroom activities, simulation exercises, and debriefs. Upon hire, you will be assigned to the nearest available training cohort. The training includes four (4) weeks at our Seattle training site (scheduled for Weeks 2, 4, 6, and 8). For those eligible for travel from their assigned duty location, DCYF covers hotel accommodations and per diem costs.
The WCT curriculum is designed to prepare Social Service Specialists for the responsibilities of the role, including:
Complete Your Applicant Profile And Attach The Following
The Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) is committed to Washington’s children and youth growing up safe, healthy, and thriving. We invite all candidates to join us in our mission to create a diverse and equitable workplace that reflects the communities we serve. If you are excited about this role but you believe that your education and/or experience might not align perfectly with every qualification in the job posting, we encourage you to apply anyway.
The Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, race, creed, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran or military status, or the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability or the use of a trained service animal by a person with a disability.
Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal history will 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 position.
This recruitment may be used to fill multiple vacancies
This position is included in the supervisory bargaining unit represented by the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE). For more information: https://wfse.org/
This position requires a minimum of at least two years of driving experience and a valid driver’s license.
The incumbent must successfully complete formal training courses as required by law, policy, and regional requirements within one year of their appointment.
Degrees must be obtained from an accredited college or university whose accreditation is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), or a foreign equivalent verified by a NACES-approved organization at naces.org. Foreign Equivalency certification must be attached to the application for degrees obtained outside the U.S.
Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications and wish to claim Veteran's Preference MUST attach a copy of their DD214 or NGB Form 22, or other verification of military service. Please blackout (redact)the social security number before attaching any documents. For additional information on Veteran's Preference and guidance on how to determine if you are eligible, click here.
For more information about this position or if you need an accommodation throughout the application/interview process, please contact DCYF recruiter. If you're experiencing technical difficulties creating, accessing or completing your application, call NEOGOV toll-free at (855) 524-5627 or email support@neogov.com. Persons needing accommodation in the application process or this announcement in an alternative format may call the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) at 360-664-1960.
06664
More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Read About Our Benefits
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific 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.
Note: 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 nonovertime 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 nonovertime 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 collective bargaining agreement (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.
Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.
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
01
Which of the following best describes a combination of your education and experience in the social services field?
Please describe your Social Service experience which includes assessing risk and safety to children and providing direct family-centered practice services. Your answer should be reflected in the work history section of your application. If you do not have this experience, please write "none." Please do not write "see application/resume/cover letter."
03
(For degrees obtained outside the U.S.) Have you included a foreign equivalency certification verified by a NACES-approved organization from naces.org?
This position requires a criminal background check prior to employment. 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 position. Are you willing to undergo a criminal background check as a condition of employment?
Do you have a minimum of at least two years of driving experience and a valid driver’s license?
DCYF - How did you hear about this job opportunity?
If claiming veteran’s preference in obtaining state employment, have you attached a redacted DD214, NGB22 or other signed document validating service type and discharge?
Our vision is to ensure that “Washington state’s children and youth grow up safe and healthy— thriving physically, emotionally, and academically, nurtured by family and community."
Job Title: CFWS EFC Social Service Specialist 3 (SSS3)
Location: Yakima, WA (Opportunity to telework up to 3 days per week as long as office coverage and needs are met.)
Closes: 9/3025
Salary: $5666 - $7622 Monthly
DCYF is looking for a Child and Family Welfare Services (CFWS) Extended Foster Care (EFC) Social Service Specialist to join our to Region 2 team based out of the Yakima Office, that has the potential to cover cases throughout Region 2. If you would like to come and join our amazing team and build a career making a significant difference in the lives of children, apply today.
For a detailed view of DCYF's regional boundaries, Click Here.
Click here to learn more about DCYF.
The Opportunity
This position performs advanced levels of specialized case management in the Child and Family Welfare Services (CFWS)/Extended Foster Care (EFC) youth for Region 2, primarily the Yakima area. The CFWS/EFC Social Service Specialist will have expert knowledge of the EFC program, policy, and law to assist field offices by providing information and expert collaboration regarding the EFC program.
Some Of What You'll Do
- Provide initial and ongoing assessment of EFC youth safety, ability to live independently, and barriers to making progress in the EFC program.
- Identify and develop community supports and resources.
- Assess the EFC youth for supervision needs.
- Provide training and services that decrease the possibility of homelessness and teach skills needed to achieve stability and independent living.
- Provide housing resource information to assist young adults in obtaining housing.
- Assist youth in locating employment and/or education resources to develop career skills to support stability.
- See youth in their home every month and assess the young adult’s ability for independent living and safety.
- Help the EFC youth obtain necessary documents.
- Provide resources that will continue to work with the youth after exiting EFC.
- Encourage the EFC youth, identify strengths, and teach the youth how to advocate for themselves.
- Prepare required legal documents for court, placement, and service delivery.
- Prepare and file EFC dependency petitions and other legal documents related to the implementation of permanent plans.
- Utilize FAMLINK to document case activities and maintain case records.
- Six (6) years of paid social service experience* AND 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Service discipline.
- Bachelor’s degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, or any degree that includes 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Service discipline AND Two (2) years of paid social service experience*.
- Master's degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, or any degree which includes 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Service discipline AND One (1) year of paid social service experience*.
- One (1) year of experience as a Social Service Specialist 2
- Commitment to equity, inclusion, and respectful workplace principles.
- Paid Social Service experience must include at least one year of assessing risk and safety to children and providing direct family-centered practice services.
- Prior public child welfare experience.
- Case management experience.
- Knowledge of child development and/or family systems.
- Professional experience working with clients who have mental health problems, substance use disorder, developmental delays, or criminal behavior.
- Experience assessing risk and safety regarding child abuse and neglect concerns.
- Current knowledge of applicable laws, rules, and policies on the delivery of child welfare services within Washington State.
- Demonstrated knowledge of shared decision-making processes for making case plans, such as Family Team Decision Meetings, dependency case conferences, permanency planning staffing, Child Protective Teams, Local Indian Child Welfare Advisory Committee, adoption teaming staffing, and Behavior Rehabilitation Services team meetings.
- Demonstrated knowledge of FAMLINK system for documentation.
As a Social Service Specialist, you are required to successfully complete a mandatory 9.5-week Worker Core Training (WCT). This training provides the foundational knowledge and skills needed to perform core job functions, including assessing risk and safety, supporting child well-being, gathering information, and conducting case and permanency planning. During the training, you will have opportunities to practice these skills through classroom activities, simulation exercises, and debriefs. Upon hire, you will be assigned to the nearest available training cohort. The training includes four (4) weeks at our Seattle training site (scheduled for Weeks 2, 4, 6, and 8). For those eligible for travel from their assigned duty location, DCYF covers hotel accommodations and per diem costs.
The WCT curriculum is designed to prepare Social Service Specialists for the responsibilities of the role, including:
- Understanding the child welfare system
- Familiarity with the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) related to child welfare
- Policies, procedures, and best practices
- Assessing child safety through environmental observation, interviews with children and caregivers, and collateral contacts
- Collecting records and collaborating with community partners, including medical providers, law enforcement, and chemical dependency services
- Completing assessments and documenting case notes
- Writing dependency petitions and court reports
- Preparing for and testifying in court
Complete Your Applicant Profile And Attach The Following
- Transcripts (Unofficial transcripts are acceptable for application submission)
- Cover Letter
- Current resume detailing experience and education
The Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) is committed to Washington’s children and youth growing up safe, healthy, and thriving. We invite all candidates to join us in our mission to create a diverse and equitable workplace that reflects the communities we serve. If you are excited about this role but you believe that your education and/or experience might not align perfectly with every qualification in the job posting, we encourage you to apply anyway.
The Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, race, creed, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran or military status, or the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability or the use of a trained service animal by a person with a disability.
Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal history will 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 position.
This recruitment may be used to fill multiple vacancies
This position is included in the supervisory bargaining unit represented by the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE). For more information: https://wfse.org/
This position requires a minimum of at least two years of driving experience and a valid driver’s license.
The incumbent must successfully complete formal training courses as required by law, policy, and regional requirements within one year of their appointment.
Degrees must be obtained from an accredited college or university whose accreditation is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), or a foreign equivalent verified by a NACES-approved organization at naces.org. Foreign Equivalency certification must be attached to the application for degrees obtained outside the U.S.
Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications and wish to claim Veteran's Preference MUST attach a copy of their DD214 or NGB Form 22, or other verification of military service. Please blackout (redact)the social security number before attaching any documents. For additional information on Veteran's Preference and guidance on how to determine if you are eligible, click here.
For more information about this position or if you need an accommodation throughout the application/interview process, please contact DCYF recruiter. If you're experiencing technical difficulties creating, accessing or completing your application, call NEOGOV toll-free at (855) 524-5627 or email support@neogov.com. Persons needing accommodation in the application process or this announcement in an alternative format may call the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) at 360-664-1960.
06664
More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Read About Our Benefits
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific 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.
Note: 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 nonovertime 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 nonovertime 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 collective bargaining agreement (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.
Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.
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
01
Which of the following best describes a combination of your education and experience in the social services field?
- I have a Bachelor's degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences OR with 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Services discipline AND two years of paid social service experience.
- I have a Master's degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, or Master's degree which includes 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Services discipline and one year of paid social service experience.
- I have one year of experience as a Social Service Specialist 2.
- I have six (6) years of paid social service experience* AND 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Service discipline.
- None of the above.
Please describe your Social Service experience which includes assessing risk and safety to children and providing direct family-centered practice services. Your answer should be reflected in the work history section of your application. If you do not have this experience, please write "none." Please do not write "see application/resume/cover letter."
03
(For degrees obtained outside the U.S.) Have you included a foreign equivalency certification verified by a NACES-approved organization from naces.org?
- Yes
- No
- Does not apply
This position requires a criminal background check prior to employment. 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 position. Are you willing to undergo a criminal background check as a condition of employment?
- Yes
- No
Do you have a minimum of at least two years of driving experience and a valid driver’s license?
- Yes
- No
DCYF - How did you hear about this job opportunity?
- WWW.Careers.Wa.Gov
- WorkSource Center or Website (WorkSourceWA.com)
- Washington State Employee Referral
- DCYF Employee Referral
- DCYF Jobs Page
- Monster
- College/university career fair or website
- VERG
- Advertisement
- CareerBuilder
- Diversity Jobs
- Handshake
- Movie Theatre
- Other
If claiming veteran’s preference in obtaining state employment, have you attached a redacted DD214, NGB22 or other signed document validating service type and discharge?
- Yes
- No
- N/A
- Required Question
Salary : $5,666 - $7,622
