Social Service Training Specialist (SSTS) - Olympia
Apply NowCompany: State of Washington
Location: Olympia, WA 98501
Description:
Salary: $71,148.00 - $95,652.00 Annually
Location : Thurston County - Olympia, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 2025-01462
Department: Dept of Children, Youth, and Families
Division: Early Learning Division
Opening Date: 03/05/2025
Closing Date: 3/19/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
Salary Information: The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step
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 Class: Social Service Training Specialist (SSTS)
Location: Olympia, WA - This position supports hybrid (office environment and remote) work with a flexible schedule.
Closes: Wednesday, March 19th, 2025
Salary: $71,148.00 - $95,652.00 Annually
The Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) is accepting applications for a Social Service Training Specialist (SSTS) who is responsible for instructional design, leadership consultation, learning material development, and training delivery for the Early Learning Child Care Subsidy Program (CCSP). Our highly productive small team works closely together to support the needs of the CCSP. The work is largely independent with regularly required meetings and check-ins. This position offers opportunities both to instruct existing curricula and to create and develop new learning supports for our staff.
Click here to learn more about
The Opportunity:
In this role, you will develop progressive learning strategies for CCSP staff, ensure that the materials reflect most recent WAC and procedures, and implement continuous quality improvement for the professional development offerings. You will ensure that all individuals who process child care subsidy applications receive relevant, timely and accurate learning materials to accurately process cases. The Social Service Training Specialist will utilize data to make recommendations for improvements in learning strategies and resources.
Some of what you will do:
Additional qualifying experience will substitute, year for year, for the required education except for positions that require a degree in social work. A degree in Social Work must be from an education program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.
In addition to those required qualifications, our ideal applicant will also have some or all of the following:
In addition to completing the online application, applicants must attach the following the following documents to their profile in order to be considered for this position:
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.
This position is included in the bargaining unit represented by the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE). For more information:
This recruitment may be used to fill multiple vacancies.
Benefits eligibility for this position may be different than what's listed in the benefits tab of this recruitment announcement, for more information on employee benefits eligibility visit-
If you have any questions pertaining to this recruitment or if you would like to request an accommodation throughout the application/interview process, contact Veronica Jones (Talent Acquisition Specialist) at If you're experiencing technical difficulties creating, accessing or completing your application, call NEOGOV toll-free at (855) 524-5627 or email
Persons needing accommodation in the application process or this announcement in an alternative format may call (360) 902-2276 or the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) at (800) 833-6388.
2025-01462
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 (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 (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 , 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, are entitled to three (3) 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
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 12-31-2022
01
Which of the following best describes a combination of your education and experience?
02
Please briefly describe how/where you gained the experience indicated in the previous question. 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
Which of the following best describes your experience developing learning materials?
04
Which of the following best describes your experience writing procedures, handbooks, and general communication documents?
05
Which of the following best describes your in-depth knowledge of early learning programs?
06
Which of the following best describes your experience and knowledge of adult learning principles and instructional design approaches?
07
DCYF - How did you hear about this job opportunity?
Required Question
Location : Thurston County - Olympia, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 2025-01462
Department: Dept of Children, Youth, and Families
Division: Early Learning Division
Opening Date: 03/05/2025
Closing Date: 3/19/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
Salary Information: The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step
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 Class: Social Service Training Specialist (SSTS)
Location: Olympia, WA - This position supports hybrid (office environment and remote) work with a flexible schedule.
Closes: Wednesday, March 19th, 2025
Salary: $71,148.00 - $95,652.00 Annually
The Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) is accepting applications for a Social Service Training Specialist (SSTS) who is responsible for instructional design, leadership consultation, learning material development, and training delivery for the Early Learning Child Care Subsidy Program (CCSP). Our highly productive small team works closely together to support the needs of the CCSP. The work is largely independent with regularly required meetings and check-ins. This position offers opportunities both to instruct existing curricula and to create and develop new learning supports for our staff.
Click here to learn more about
The Opportunity:
In this role, you will develop progressive learning strategies for CCSP staff, ensure that the materials reflect most recent WAC and procedures, and implement continuous quality improvement for the professional development offerings. You will ensure that all individuals who process child care subsidy applications receive relevant, timely and accurate learning materials to accurately process cases. The Social Service Training Specialist will utilize data to make recommendations for improvements in learning strategies and resources.
Some of what you will do:
- Design live, virtual and in-person onboarding and ongoing learning curricula for supporting Public Benefits Specialists 1-5.
- Develop evaluations and assessment instruments to identify the impact, efficacy, and quality of learning materials.
- Create data summaries and generate recommendations for design of learning materials.
- Facilitate subject matter expert groups to identify learning needs, preferred learning strategies, develop learning content and gather feedback on learning materials.
- Develop learning materials and manage the usage of the DCYF Learning Center and other platforms.
- Develop recommendations for management of training needs, assessments, and issues.
- Serve as a subject matter expert for Child Care Subsidy program policy and procedure, professional development-related standards and policies, and the learning management system.
- Develop communication policies, business rules, forms, and applications.
- Implement quality assurance protocol for the state-approved training program.
- Generate recommendations for continuous quality improvement of professional development programs and assist in the implementation of new policies or procedures.
- Deliver learning opportunities and conduct evaluations to assess impact.
- Three (3) years' experience as a Public Benefits Specialist 3 or above or equivalent work experience with other automated eligibility systems, and at least one (1) year of experience supporting the professional development of adult learners.
- A Bachelor's degree in social work, social science, public administration or a related field AND three (3) years of professional experience in developing learning materials (i.e. job aids, curricula for synchronous and asynchronous delivery), planning, administering, social services programs.
Additional qualifying experience will substitute, year for year, for the required education except for positions that require a degree in social work. A degree in Social Work must be from an education program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.
In addition to those required qualifications, our ideal applicant will also have some or all of the following:
- Previous demonstrated experience displaying the ability to develop learning materials (i.e., asynchronous, and synchronous curricula, job aids), evaluation synopsis, and progress reports.
- Previous demonstrated experience displaying strong facilitation skills for meetings, workgroups, and coordinating with multiple partners.
- Previous demonstrated experience writing procedures, handbooks, and general communication documents, and organize, prioritize, and complete multiple projects, with accuracy.
- Previous demonstrated experience and proficiency using Articulate 360 and Microsoft Office Suite applications.
- Prior demonstrated experience displaying the ability to write data summaries and other briefs, present to multiple partner groups, clear and effective written communication.
- Previous demonstrated professional experience and knowledge working with adult learners in culturally diverse communities.
- In-depth knowledge of the early learning field gained from professional experience with DCYF's involvement and responsibilities in supporting early learning professionals.
- Previous demonstrated experience in research, data collection and evaluation processes.
In addition to completing the online application, applicants must attach the following the following documents to their profile in order to be considered for this position:
- Letter of interest describing how you meet the specific qualifications for this position.
- Current resume detailing experience and education.
- Sample of curriculum, training, or learning related work that you have created or developed.
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.
This position is included in the bargaining unit represented by the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE). For more information:
This recruitment may be used to fill multiple vacancies.
Benefits eligibility for this position may be different than what's listed in the benefits tab of this recruitment announcement, for more information on employee benefits eligibility visit-
If you have any questions pertaining to this recruitment or if you would like to request an accommodation throughout the application/interview process, contact Veronica Jones (Talent Acquisition Specialist) at If you're experiencing technical difficulties creating, accessing or completing your application, call NEOGOV toll-free at (855) 524-5627 or email
Persons needing accommodation in the application process or this announcement in an alternative format may call (360) 902-2276 or the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) at (800) 833-6388.
2025-01462
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 (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 (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 , 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, are entitled to three (3) 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
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 12-31-2022
01
Which of the following best describes a combination of your education and experience?
- I have three (3) years of experience as a Public Benefits Specialist 3 or above, or equivalent work experience with other automated eligibility systems, and at least one year of experience supporting the professional development of adult learners.
- I have additional qualifying experience that substitutes, year-for-year, for the required education.
- I have a Bachelor's degree in social work, social science, public administration, or a related field, AND three (3) years of professional experience in developing learning materials (i.e. job aids, curricula for synchronous and asynchronous delivery), planning, administering, social services programs.
- I have none of the above.
02
Please briefly describe how/where you gained the experience indicated in the previous question. 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
Which of the following best describes your experience developing learning materials?
- I have one (1) year or less of this experience.
- I have one (1) to two (2) years of this experience.
- I have two (2) to three (3) years of this experience.
- I have three (3) to four (4) years of this experience.
- I have five (5) years or more of this experience.
- I have none of this experience.
04
Which of the following best describes your experience writing procedures, handbooks, and general communication documents?
- I have one (1) year or less of this experience.
- I have one (1) to two (2) years of this experience.
- I have two (2) to three (3) years of this experience.
- I have three (3) to four (4) years of this experience.
- I have five (5) years or more of this experience.
- I have none of this experience.
05
Which of the following best describes your in-depth knowledge of early learning programs?
- I have one (1) year or less of this experience.
- I have one (1) to two (2) years of this experience.
- I have two (2) to three (3) years of this experience.
- I have three (3) to four (4) years of this experience.
- I have five (5) years or more of this experience.
- I have none of this experience.
06
Which of the following best describes your experience and knowledge of adult learning principles and instructional design approaches?
- I have one (1) year or less of this experience.
- I have one (1) to two (2) years of this experience.
- I have two (2) to three (3) years of this experience.
- I have three (3) to four (4) years of this experience.
- I have five (5) years or more of this experience.
- I have none of this experience.
07
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
- Other
Required Question