Group Care Licensor (SSS3) - Spokane

Group Care Licensor (SSS3) - Spokane

Salary

$69,348.00 - $93,288.00 Annually

Location

Spokane County - Other, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

2026-09086

Department

Dept of Children, Youth, and Families

Division

Licensing

Opening Date

10/30/2026

Closing Date

11/10/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

Salary Information

The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Description

Our vision is to ensure that "Washington state's children and youth grow up safe and healthy, thriving physically, emotionally, and educationally, nurtured by family and community."

Job Title: Group Care Licensor (SSS3)

Location: Spokane WA - This position is flexible/hybrid and can be done remotely; however, you will need to be in person at 316 W. Boone Ave., Ste. 500, Spokane, WA 99201 for weekly/monthly in-person meetings, IT or equipment support, or training.

Closes: Tuesday, November 10th. 2026

Salary: $69,348 - $93,288 Annually

The Spokane Group Care Licensing Team has an open position within our amazing unit. Our team thrives on collaboration and strong partnerships with licensed providers, youth, and community stakeholders across a variety of high-quality out-of-home group care settings. We are based in the Spokane Central DCYF office and serve Region 1 providers, with most located in Spokane County. Our team is energetic, supportive, and committed to building positive relationships with providers and youth. If you are interested in joining a team that values connection, problem-solving, and high-quality service to youth and families, we encourage you to apply.

Click here to learn more about DCYF.

The Opportunity:

This Social Service Specialist 3 (SSS3) position works within the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) Licensing Division (LD) and serves as a main point of contact for licensed group care providers. The role requires advanced, culturally competent, and solution-focused case management with minimal supervision. The Group Care Licensor supports a wide range of licensed programs, including staffed residential homes, group homes, overnight youth shelters, group receiving centers, crisis residential centers, maternity services, resource and assessment centers, and emergency respite centers. This position utilizes the racial equity and social justice framework to collaboratively develop, direct, and monitor high-profile social service programs serving vulnerable children in out-of-home care. The Licensor ensures consistent application of RCWs, WACs, and agency policies while honoring and respecting the strengths, cultural identities, and communication styles of families and providers.

Some of what youll do:

• Approve or deny applications to license or relicense group care facilities.

• Perform specialized reviews of all elements related to child health and safety, to assess potential risk and compliance.

• Maintain communication with Group Care Supervisor, attend monthly 1:1 staffing and all required unit meetings.

• Conduct program evaluations to identify provider strengths and challenges. Program evaluation includes, but is not limited to, initial and on-going assessment of:

• Program policies and procedures.

• Staff qualifications and references.

• Personnel records.

• Child records and service/treatment plans.

• Results of Group Care facility background checks including criminal history and child abuse registry.

• Suitability for placement.

• Physical facility and grounds.

• Compliance with all other minimum licensing requirements.

• Provide direction to providers in assessing and improving the health and safety of children in out-of-home care, interpreting Washington policy and statute governing licensing functions and correcting deficiencies in order to maintain licensure.

• Provide direction in the development and monitoring of facility policies and procedures.

• Explain department policies and provisions of the law to facility providers, families, individuals, and members of the community.

• Process complaints and coordinates investigations with group care facility staff, of licensing violations. Assess risk to health and safety of children and compliance to licensing regulations and determine findings involving the investigation.

• Evaluate complaint information and determine degree of risk and need for emergent response.

• Issue compliance agreements and monitor programs for compliance.

• Utilize FamLink to document activities and maintain provider records within program and manual standards, accountability requirements and agency's documentation practice.

• Maintain documentation of services offered using Microsoft Word (forms and letters).

Required Qualifications:

• Six (6) years of paid social service experience* in planning, administering, developing, or delivery of public child welfare, social, health, or chemical dependency treatment programs AND 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Services discipline.

OR

• A Bachelor's degree in Social Services, human services, behavioral sciences, OR Bachelor's degree which includes 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Services discipline AND two (2) years of paid Social Service experience* in planning, administering, developing, or delivery of public child welfare, social, health, or chemical dependency treatment programs.

OR

• Masters 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 (1) year 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 experience as a Social Service Specialist 2.

AND

• The ability to take action to learn and grow.
• The ability to take action to meet the needs of others.
• Paid Social Service experience must include at least one 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:

• Work cooperatively with diverse populations.
• Understand agency policies, WAC and RCW related to licensed facilities.
• Effectively, clearly, and concisely communicate verbally and in writing with management, peers, clients, and the

public as required to carry out the assigned duties of the position.

• Use MS Office and FAMLINK database.

How do I apply?

In addition to completing the online application, applicants must attach the following documents to their profile in order to be considered for this position:

• Resume
• Cover Letter (describing how you meet the specific qualifications for this position).
• College Transcripts -If applicable. (An unofficial copy is acceptable for applying).

Worker Core Training (WCT):

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

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 goal 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.

This recruitment may be used to fill multiple vacancies.

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 applicants suitability and competence to perform in the position.

Must hold a valid driver's license when operating a state or privately-owned vehicle while on official state business.

Must successfully complete formal training courses as required by law, policy, and regional requirements within twelve months of initial 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.

This position is included in the bargaining unit represented by the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE). For more information: https://wfse.org/

If you would like to request an accommodation throughout the application/interview process, contact DCYF Recruiter. If youre 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 Veterans 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, the 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 Veterans' 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.

2026-09086

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. Thats 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 a combination of your education and experience in the social Services field?

• Six (6) years of paid social service experience* in planning, administering, developing, or delivery of public child welfare, social, health, or chemical dependency treatment programs AND 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Services discipline.
• A Bachelor's degree in Social Services, human services, behavioral sciences, OR Bachelor's degree which includes 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Services discipline AND Two (2) years of paid Social Service experience* in planning, administering, developing, or delivery of public child welfare, social, health, or chemical dependency treatment programs.
• Masters 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 (1) year of paid Social Service experience* in planning, administering, developing, or delivery of public child welfare, social, health, or chemical dependency treatment programs.
• One (1) year of experience as a Social Service Specialist 2.
• None of the above.

02

Do you have a minimum of one (1) year of paid experience assessing risk and safety in children, youth, and/or families?

• Yes
• No

03

Which of the following best describes your experience assessing licensing applications or conducting licensing reviews for facilities serving children or vulnerable populations?

• No Experience - (I have not assessed licensing applications or conducted compliance reviews.)
• Limited Experience - (I have assisted with licensing or compliance tasks but not independently.)
• Working Experience - (I have independently reviewed licensing applications or assessed compliance with defined requirements.)
• Advanced Experience - (I have completed licensing reviews involving multiple regulatory elements or complex provider settings.)
• Expert Experience - (I am recognized as a licensing expert and have provided guidance or oversight to others performing licensing work.)

04

Which of the following best describes your experience assessing child safety, determining risk, or evaluating suitability for placement in out-of-home care?

• No Experience - (I have not performed child safety or risk assessments.)
• Limited Experience - (I have participated in safety or risk assessments under guidance.)
• Working Experience - (I independently assess child safety or determine risk levels as part of my job duties.)
• Advanced Experience - (I assess risk in complex or high-profile cases and determine needed response levels.)
• Expert Experience - (I provide expert consultation or oversight in child safety and risk assessment practices.)

05

Which of the following best describes your experience processing complaints, coordinating investigations, or determining findings related to child safety or licensing violations?

• No Experience - (I have not processed complaints or participated in investigations.)
• Limited Experience - (I have assisted with complaint processing or investigations with supervision.)
• Working Experience - (I independently conduct complaint reviews or coordinate investigations and document findings.)
• Advanced Experience - (I have led investigations involving multiple risk factors or complex licensing issues.)
• Expert Experience - (I provide expert-level guidance in complaint investigations, determination of findings, or regulatory responses.)

06

Which of the following best describes your experience conducting program evaluations, including reviewing provider policies, staff qualifications, records, physical environments, or compliance with licensing requirements?

• No Experience - (I have not conducted program evaluations.)
• Limited Experience - (I have assisted with program evaluations or reviewed components under supervision.)
• Working Experience - (I conduct full program evaluations independently using established criteria.)
• Advanced Experience - (I conduct evaluations across multiple program elements and provide recommendations for improvement.)
• Expert Experience - (I lead or train others in conducting program evaluations or evaluating high-profile or complex facilities.)

07

Which of the following best describes your experience providing direction to providers to correct deficiencies, improve compliance, or enhance child health and safety?

• No Experience - (I have not provided guidance or corrective action direction to providers.)
• Limited Experience - (I have provided limited or supervised guidance to providers.)
• Working Experience - (I independently provide guidance to providers regarding corrective actions or compliance expectations.)
• Advanced Experience - (I regularly support providers through complex corrective action processes or compliance deficiencies.)
• Expert Experience - (I lead or advise on corrective action approaches and support system-level improvement practices.)

08

Which of the following best describes your experience documenting work activities in automated systems (such as FamLink) and preparing required written documentation (letters, reports, case notes)?

• No Experience - (I have not used automated systems or prepared documentation in this context.)
• Limited Experience - (I have basic experience entering information or preparing simple documentation.)
• Working Experience - (I independently document case activities and prepare written materials as part of my job.)
• Advanced Experience - (I am skilled at completing detailed documentation, ensuring accuracy, and meeting agency standards.)
• Expert Experience - (I am recognized for producing high-quality documentation and supporting others in accurate records management.)

09

Please describe one or two specific examples of how you have incorporated racial equity, cultural responsiveness, or respect for family/provider identity in your work. Include the situation, what you did, and the outcome. If you do not have this experience, please write "none." Please do not write "see resume," "see application," or similar.

10

Do you have a valid driver's license?

• Yes
• No

11

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 applicants suitability and competence to perform in the position. Are you willing to undergo a criminal background check as a condition of employment?

• Yes
• No

12

If claiming veterans preference in obtaining state employment, have you attached a redacted DD214, NGB22 or Predischarge Certification validating service type and discharge.

• Yes - DD214/NGB22
• Yes - Predischarge Certification (issued not more than 120 days prior to End of Term of Service (ETS) by date of submission).
• N/A

13

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
• Movie Theatre
• Other

Required Question

Employer State of Washington

Address View Job Posting for Agency Information

View Job Posting for Location, Washington, 98504

Website http://www.careers.wa.gov