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Dshs Social Worker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

DSHS YVS Food Service Worker

Olympia, WA · On-site

$16 - $19.50/hr

Description DSHS YVS - Food Service Worker (On-Call) Are you passionate about food service and ... The Department of Social and Health Services' (DSHS) vision that people find human services to ...

DSHS YVS Cook 1

Olympia, WA · On-site

$3.3K - $4.4K/mo

For information about a Washington State Food Worker Card click here. Interested. Apply today. The Department of Social and Health Services' (DSHS) vision that people find human services to shape ...

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Dshs Social Worker information

See salary details

$34.5K

$76.3K

$117K

How much do dshs social worker jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for dshs social worker in the United States is $76,266.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,000.00 and $91,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a DSHS social worker?

DSHS Social Workers are professionals employed by the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) who provide support and services to individuals and families in need. Their responsibilities often include assessing client needs, connecting them with resources such as healthcare, housing, and financial assistance, and advocating for their well-being. They may work in areas such as child protective services, adult protective services, or mental health. DSHS Social Workers play a crucial role in promoting safety, stability, and improved quality of life for vulnerable populations.

How does a DSHS social worker typically collaborate with other professionals to support clients?

DSHS Social Workers regularly collaborate with a multidisciplinary team, including healthcare providers, educators, law enforcement, and legal professionals, to ensure comprehensive support for clients. They participate in case conferences, coordinate care plans, and share critical information while respecting confidentiality requirements. This collaborative approach helps address the complex needs of individuals and families, improves access to services, and leads to better outcomes. Building strong professional relationships and clear communication are key aspects of success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a DSHS social worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a DSHS Social Worker, you need a degree in social work or a related field and licensure as required by the state, along with strong case management and assessment skills. Familiarity with case management software, state and federal regulations, and documentation systems is typically necessary. Outstanding interpersonal communication, cultural competence, and problem-solving abilities help build trust and effectively support clients in challenging situations. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring client well-being, regulatory compliance, and effective service delivery within the Department of Social and Health Services.

What is the difference between Dshs Social Worker vs Dshs Case Manager?

AspectDshs Social WorkerDshs Case Manager
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Social Work, state licensureBachelor's degree often required; some roles may require licensure
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, community organizations, hospitalsGovernment agencies, community programs, healthcare settings
Employer & Industry UsageState Department of Social and Health Services, public sectorState agencies, healthcare providers, social service organizations

While both Dshs Social Workers and Dshs Case Managers work within social services and often in similar environments, social workers typically hold advanced degrees and licensure, focusing on counseling and advocacy. Case managers usually coordinate services and may have less formal education requirements. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What skills are needed for DSHS social worker jobs?

DSHS social workers need strong communication, active listening, and problem-solving skills to assess client needs and develop support plans. They should have knowledge of social services, case management, and relevant laws, often requiring a bachelor's or master's degree in social work and certification or licensure. Empathy, organization, and the ability to work under pressure are also essential for success in this role.
More about Dshs Social Worker jobs

What states have the most Dshs Social Worker jobs?

States with the most job openings for Dshs Social Worker jobs include:

Infographic showing various Dshs Social Worker job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,266 per year, or $36.7 per hour.

DSHS WSH Psychiatric Social Worker 3

State of Washington

Olympia, WA • Hybrid

$7.2K - $9.7K/mo

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


State Of Washington rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 83 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 50 rated states


Job description

Description We are currently seeking a Forensic Psychiatric Discharge Social Worker (PSW3) to join our Gage Center team. As a Psychiatric Social Worker 3, you will assist residents by bridging our hospital and the community in discharge planning. Western State Hospital (WSH) offers patients enriching opportunities and experiences outside the hospital setting, preparing them for a smooth transition back into the community.

This is a great opportunity to be a team member and enhance behavioral health treatment in Washington State. This position serves as the Community Program Psychiatric Social Worker 3 in the Gage Center of Forensic Services at WSH. In this capacity, you are a part of the admission, assessment, and discharge process, utilizing evidence-based interventions to assist in the promotion of wellness and recovery toward the patients' treatment goal thereby supporting progression in the privilege system and, where appropriate, transition to the community.

You are a member of a multidisciplinary and multiagency team including but not limited to the assigned treatment team, Treatment and Recovery Center staff, the Risk Review Board (where applicable), forensic evaluators, and the Office of Forensic Mental Health. Opportunities performed on-site at this work location at least three days a week may be eligible for an additional 5% premium pay in addition to the advertised salary. Some of what you will do Delivers daily or weekly 1:1 therapeutic engagement.

Works collaboratively with their inter-disciplinary/multi-disciplinary team. Testifies at court hearings/reviews and/or trials. Provides day to day Social Worker coverage for treatment team.

Assists in proper referrals for assistance and advocacy. Presents patients for increased/reduced privileges, conditional release/revocation, and or community transition to the Risk Review Board. Assist with special data and reporting needs.

May have a combination of both inpatients and outpatients. Who should apply Professionals with a master's degree from approved school of social work and two years of experience in counseling people who experience behavioral health issues. Ability to obtain registration as an Agency Affiliated Counselor.

An independent clinical social work license is preferred. Why Join Us. We partner with people to access support, care, and resources.

DSHS employees make a difference in WA State every day by supporting sustainable recovery, independence, and wellness. 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. Questions about this opportunity. Please contact Grant Grady at grant.grady@dshs.wa.gov and reference project number 06608

Supplemental Information Prior 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. Washington State Department of Social and Health Services is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in any area of employment, its programs or services on the basis of age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity/expression, marital status, race, creed, color, national origin, religion or beliefs, political affiliation, military status, honorably discharged veteran, Vietnam Era, recently separated or other protected veteran status, the presence of any sensory, mental, physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability, equal pay or genetic information.

Persons requiring accommodation in the application process or this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the Recruiter at (360) 725-5810. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384. Relationship and Reporting Structure (Nepotism) Disclosure: If you are selected for hire, you must disclose whether you have a relative, household member, close friend, or romantic partner within your potential supervisory chain of command.

DSHS has a Relationships and the Reporting Structure policy that prohibits nepotism and can be reviewed here. Applicants whose appointment would result in a prohibited reporting relationship are not eligible for appointment to that position. E-Verify is a registered trademark of the U.S

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About State of Washington

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Washington is not a traditional company, but a governmental organization that is tasked with managing the various state-run services and enterprises in Washington. Headquartered in Seattle, Washington, USA, the organization is responsible for the overall administration of the state's agencies and public services. Since the admission of Washington into the Union on November 11, 1890, the state government has aimed to provide a high quality of life for its residents through effective and efficient public services.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Seattle, WA, US

Year founded

1889