DSHS WSH Substance Use Disorder Program Specialist

DSHS WSH Substance Use Disorder Program Specialist 3

Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) is seeking multiple Program Specialist 3's (PS3) to join our team. This is a shared position across the Centers of Civil and Forensic Excellence at Western State Hospital, working with patients who are committed under RCWs 10.77 and 71.05. They serve as ancillary, supportive treatment staff to a multidisciplinary team when patient matters of emotional, psychological, and/or physical concern arise because of the patient’s substance use or substance use history.

This position reports directly to the Substance Use Disorder Manager, or to their designated backup when necessary. Both roles fall under the oversight of the Director of Treatment Services.

This opportunity has been reopened to expand the applicant pool. If you have already submitted an application, you do not need to reapply—your application is currently under review.

• Utilizes evidence‑based interventions (i.e., individual and/or groups) that are consistent with state law and the Washington Administrative Code (WAC) to assist in the treatment and promotion of wellness and recovery toward the patients’ treatment goal(s).
• Conduct substance use disorder assessments—both diagnostic and treatment‑focused—to clarify potential diagnoses and determine the appropriate level of services needed upon discharge, utilizing evidence‑based methods.
• Provide outpatient treatment during hospitalization and assist with community placement as needed.
• Works with Behavioral Health Organizations to facilitate access to appropriate substance use disorder services.
• Collaborates and consults with treatment teams to develop outpatient treatment plans tailored to the patient’s specific substance‑related needs.
• Supports patients in mitigating or alleviating relapse risk during hospitalization and upon reintegration into the community.

• Bachelor’s Degree AND two years of experience including planning, policy analysis, and coordination and consultation with a variety of public and private agencies, organizations, and/or levels of government.
• Professional‑level experience may be substituted for education on an equal basis.
• Substance Use Disorder Professional (SUDP) or Substance Use Disorder Professional Trainee (SUDP‑T).

• Must have the ability to obtain an Agency Affiliated Counselor License.
• Verbal and written communication effectiveness.
• Ability to ensure and maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.
• Computer expertise.
• Strong attention to detail to ensure accuracy in the content of work produced.
• Ability to work independently, multitask and prioritize workload.
• Ability to evaluate and compare written data and observations; speak and write effectively.

• Pierce County employees are eligible to receive an Orca Card for transportation needs. 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.
• This role offers a hybrid work schedule.

Email Morgan Daggi or call the main Talent Acquisition line at 360‑725‑5810 and reference 06573.

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.

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