Description
Our vision is to ensure that “All Washington's children and youth grow up safe and healthy, thriving physically, emotionally, and educationally, nurtured by family and community".
Job Title: Placement Exception Social Service Specialist 5 (SSS5)
Location: Vancouver, WA (Belonging House)
Closes: 7/29/26
Salary: $80,496 - $108,228 Annually
We are looking for a Social Service Specialist 5 (SSS5) to supervise a team of Social Service Specialists at the Vancouver Belonging House Placement Exception Facility. Placement Exception Facilities provide short-term living options for foster youth, aged 13 to 18, who require supervision and do not currently have a placement. The Belonging House may serve up to three youths, with a staff ratio of one Social Service Specialist or Support Specialist to three youths. If you have a passion for leadership and making a difference in your community, apply today.
Click here to learn more about DCYF.
The Opportunity
The Social Service Specialist 5 functions as the first-line supervisor of a unit of social service specialists and is responsible for managing the day-to-day functioning of Belonging House, including on-call duties, supervision of direct care staff, and responding to emergent situations as needed. This position does not carry cases, nor will the incumbent be in the "office". Rather, as a supervisor at the Belonging House, the preferred candidate will be on the floor supporting their team and the youth for the majority of each shift. This position will utilize cultural competency to understand, communicate with, and effectively interact with youth, peers, community partners, and other individuals across cultures, focusing on understanding and respecting the strengths of the youth, including their heritage, cultural beliefs and values, communication, and learning style.
Some Of What You Will Get To Do

• Supervise a unit of social service specialists.
• Model positive pro-social behavior with youth and staff in Belonging House.
• Ensure that the youth at Belonging House receive access to education, nutrition, and youth enrichment activities.
• Coordinate with the youths' primary assigned social service specialist to manage case plans and ensure proper coordination of services.
• Support youth with complex mental health, developmental, and behavioral needs.
• Coordinate with other supervisors to ensure appropriate supervisory coverage for the office.
• Participate in supervisory, administrative, and individual meetings and conferences.
• Perform quality assurance on staff documentation, assessments, reports, case management, and payment initiation.
• Ensure that Social Service Specialists document all case activities and information gathered within the case file and FAMLINK electronic record.
• Lead staff through coaching, counseling, and feedback as necessary.
• Prepare written performance evaluations for staff utilizing the current Performance Evaluation system.
• Hire and train new and existing professional staff in the law, policies, and procedures governing their job assignments.
• Keep staff informed of policies, rules, and regulations affecting their jobs and the clients they serve.
• Provide consultation and oversight to ensure accurate application of the child safety framework.
  

Required Qualifications
Eight (8) years of paid social service experience* AND 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Services discipline.
OR
A Master’s degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences or any Master’s degree which includes 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Services discipline AND Three (3) years of paid social service experience* in planning, administering, developing, or delivery of public child welfare, social, health, or chemical dependency treatment programs.
OR
A Bachelor's degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences or any Bachelor’s degree which includes 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Services discipline AND Four (4) years of paid social service experience* in planning, administering, developing, or delivery of public child welfare, social, health, or chemical dependency treatment programs.
OR
One (1) year of experience as a Social Service Specialist 4 (SSS4).
OR
Two (2) years of experience as a Social Service Specialist 3 (SSS3).
AND

• The ability to take action to learn and grow.
• The ability to take action to meet the needs of others.
  

NOTE: A two-year Master's degree in one of the above fields that included a practicum may be substituted for one (1) year of paid social service experience.

• Paid social service experience must include at least one (1) year of assessing risk and safety to children and providing direct family-centered practice services.
  

In addition to those required qualifications, our ideal applicant will also have some or all of the following:

• Working understanding of state and federal laws and agency policies and regulations.
• Experience assessing risk and safety concerning child abuse and neglect or developing safety and service plans with families.
• Demonstrated experience providing direct care to youth in a community environment.
• Demonstrated familiarity with community resources.
• Ability to use de-escalation techniques approved for intervention by DCYF with verbally and/or physically aggressive youth.
• Demonstrated understanding of adolescent development and complex trauma.
• Experience using FAMLINK to maintain documentation.
  

How do I apply?
In addition to completing the online application, please attach the following:

• College/University Transcripts -an unofficial copy is acceptable for application purposes.
• Cover Letter
• Resume
  

Supplemental Information
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 position is included in the supervisory bargaining unit represented by the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE). For more information: https://wfse.org/
This recruitment may be used to fill multiple vacancies.
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.
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.
Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications and wish to claim Veteran's Preference MUST attach a copy of their DD214, NGB Form 22 or Predischarge Certification (issued not more than 120 days prior to End of Term of Service (ETS) by date of submission). If claiming preference based on Predischarge Certification, individual will be required to provide their official discharge documentation, such as a DD form 214, NGB form 22, or equivalent, within 30 days after the date of discharge. 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.
DCYF participates in the federal E-Verify program. The selected candidate must provide proof of identity and authorization to work in the United States, consistent with E-Verify requirements, on their first day of employment.
06011
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 01-07-2026
01
Which of the following best describes how you qualify for this position?

• I have Eight years of paid social service experience AND 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Services discipline.
• I have a Bachelor's degree which includes 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Services discipline AND four years of paid social service experience.
• I have a Master's degree which includes 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Services discipline AND three years of paid social service experience.
• I have a Master's degree which includes 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Services discipline which included a practicum AND two years of paid social service experience.
• I have one year of experience as a Social Service Specialist 4.
• I have two years of experience as a Social Service Specialist 3.
• I have none of those.
  

02
Paid social service experience must include at least one year of assessing risk and safety to children and providing direct family-centered practice services. Do you have this required experience?

• Yes
• No
  

03
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."
04
Do you have previous case management experience working with children and families in Child Welfare Programs?

• Yes
• No
  

05
Do you have experience using FamLink and maintaining Famlink documentation?

• Yes
• No
  

06
Do you have current knowledge of applicable laws, rules, and policies on the delivery of child protective and child welfare services within Washington State?

• Yes, I have current knowledge of Washington State child welfare laws, rules, policies.
• Yes, I have this knowledge but in another state.
• No, I do not have this knowledge.
  

07
(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
  

08
Do you have a minimum of at least two years of driving experience and a valid driver’s license?

• Yes
• No
  

09
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
  

10
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
  

11
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
• LinkedIn
• Facebook
• VERG
• Advertisement
• CareerBuilder
• Diversity Jobs
• Handshake
• Other
• Required Question