Job Details
Kinship Licensing Supervisor | Social Service Specialist 5 (SSS5) Everett
2026-01-28 State of Washington all cities,AK
Description:
*Paid Social Service experience must include at least one (1) year 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:
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:
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 requires a minimum of at least two (2) years driving experience and a valid driver's license.
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,
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.
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) ###-#### or email
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) ###-####.
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, 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
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 your education and experience for the required qualifications of this position?
02
Do you have at least one (1) year of paid social service experience assessing risk and safety to children and providing direct family-centered practice services?
03
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."
04
Which of the following best describes your experience performing supervisory personnel functions, including setting performance goals, performance evaluations and, scheduling staff?
05
Which of the following best describes your experience reviewing the level of risk in cases alleging abuse and/or neglect of children and ensuring appropriate reporting has taken place?
06
Which of the following best describes your experience conducting case staffing, unit meetings, and other meetings as needed?
07
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?
08
Do you have a minimum of at least two (2) years driving experience and a valid driver's license?
09
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?
10
DCYF How did you hear about this career opportunity (select all that apply)?
Required Question
Salary: $6,576.00 - $8,842.00 Monthly
Location : Snohomish County - Everett, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 2026-00534
Department: Dept of Children, Youth, and Families
Division: Licensing
Opening Date: 01/26/2026
Closing Date: 2/9/2026 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 Title: Kinship Care Supervisor | Social Service Specialist 5 (SSS5)
Location: Everett, WA | This position is full-time/flexible/hybrid - Office location is currently Everett Regional; It can be negotiated within lower Region 3 pending business needs and space availability.
Closes: February 9th, 2026
Salary: $6,576 - $8,842 Monthly
We are currently looking for a Kinship Licensing Supervisor (SSS5)to join our team and work together toward the common goal of eliminating child and youth outcome disparities based on race and ethnicity.
Click here to learn more about
The Opportunity:
The Kinship Licensing Supervisor is tasked with supervising a unit of Social Service Specialists 3's and one Social Service Specialist 4 who serve as licensors to kinship caregivers, providing professional-level home study assessments and licensing services. If you are ready for a growth opportunity in the social services field and have a passion for protecting children, we encourage you to apply today and see all that DCYF has to offer.
Some of what you will do:
- Prioritize and assign work to a unit of home study and licensing staff.
- Hire and train, coach, and mentor new and existing professional staff in the law, policies, and procedures governing their job assignments.
- Participate in monthly leadership meetings that provide the foundation of growth and knowledge to coach and mentor junior Social Service Specialists.
- Provide informal training regarding licensing functions and home study assessment requirements and arrange for formal agency training for staff.
- Provide case consultation and review of home study assessments and licensing maintenance work.
- Maintain respectful working relationships with community providers and partners.
- Assist staff to make field visits in order to facilitate licensing and home study functions.
- Conduct case staffing, unit meetings, and other meetings as needed.
- Participate effectively in work groups designed to shape agency policy and practice including regional or office supervisor meetings.
- Perform supervisory personnel functions, including setting performance goals and performance evaluation.
- Perform quality assurance on staff documentation of the home study and initial licensing process, as well as on-going maintenance licensing processes.
- Prepare to give court testimony or mentorship to staff in preparation for court testimony if necessary.
- Consult with the Area Administrator on issues of imminent risk to children, chronic violations, complex cases, LD/CPS, media matters, and other cases as directed by the Area Administrator.
- Arrange formal agency training related to specific job assignments and career development.
- Review the level of risk in cases alleging abuse and/or neglect of children and ensure appropriate reporting has taken place.
- Review violations of licensing requirements to assure the health and safety of children and appropriate corrective action has been taken.
- Eight (8) years of paid social service experience AND 30 semester OR 45 quarter credits in a Social Services discipline.
- One (1) year of experience as a Social Service Specialist 4.
- Two (2) years of experience as a Social Service Specialist 3.
- 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*.
- 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*.
- 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 (1) year 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 agency policies, WAC and RCW related to licensed facilities.
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:
- Cover Letter
- Resume (current/updated)
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 requires a minimum of at least two (2) years driving experience and a valid driver's license.
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,
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.
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) ###-#### or email
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) ###-####.
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, 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
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 your education and experience for the required qualifications of this position?
- Eight (8) years of paid social service experience* AND 30 semester OR 45 quarter credits in a Social Services discipline.
- One (1) year of experience as a Social Service Specialist 4 (SSS4).
- Two (2) years of experience as a Social Service Specialist 3 (SSS3).
- Bachelor's degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, or a degree which includes 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Services discipline AND four (4) years of paid social service experience* .
- Master's degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, or a degree which includes 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Services discipline AND three (3) years of paid social service experience*.
- Two-year Master's degree in one of the above fields that included a practicum that may be substituted for one (1) year of paid social service experience.
- I have none of the above.
02
Do you have at least one (1) year of paid social service experience assessing risk and safety to children and providing direct family-centered practice services?
- Yes
- No
03
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."
04
Which of the following best describes your experience performing supervisory personnel functions, including setting performance goals, performance evaluations and, scheduling staff?
- I have one (1) to two (2) years of this experience.
- I have three (3) to four (4) years of this experience.
- I have five (5) to six (6) years of this experience.
- I have seven (7) to eight (8) years of this experience.
- I have nine (9) to ten (10) years of this experience.
- I have MORE than ten (10) years of this experience.
- I have none of the above.
05
Which of the following best describes your experience reviewing the level of risk in cases alleging abuse and/or neglect of children and ensuring appropriate reporting has taken place?
- I have one (1) to two (2) years of this experience.
- I have three (3) to four (4) years of this experience.
- I have five (5) to six (6) years of this experience.
- I have seven (7) to eight (8) years of this experience.
- I have nine (9) to ten (10) years of this experience.
- I have MORE than ten (10) years of this experience.
- I have none of the above.
06
Which of the following best describes your experience conducting case staffing, unit meetings, and other meetings as needed?
- I have one (1) to two (2) years of this experience.
- I have three (3) to four (4) years of this experience.
- I have five (5) to six (6) years of this experience.
- I have seven (7) to eight (8) years of this experience.
- I have nine (9) to ten (10) years of this experience.
- I have MORE than ten (10) years of this experience.
- I have none of the above.
07
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
08
Do you have a minimum of at least two (2) years driving experience and a valid driver's license?
- Yes
- No
09
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
- Does not apply
10
DCYF How did you hear about this career opportunity (select all that apply)?
- Washington State's career website: www.careers.wa.gov
- Washington State Work Source office or website (Go2WorkSource.com)
- Washington State employee
- DCYF
- DCYF Recruiter
- College/university career fair or website
- Diversity network meeting/event
- Online job boards
- Work of Honor
- Indeed
- Theater Ad
- Other
Required Question