DSHS ESA Public Benefits Specialist 1-3
State of Washington
Posted: January 7, 2026 (7 days ago)
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State of Washington
Dept. of Social and Health Services
Location
Washington, 98504
Salary
$117,120 - $157,536
per year
Type
Full Time
More Healthcare & Medical jobs →Closes
This job involves working as a psychologist at a secure facility on McNeil Island, helping individuals with sexual disorders and personality issues through group sessions, one-on-one therapy, and team meetings to support their treatment and reduce risks to the community.
It's ideal for licensed psychologists or those close to licensure who enjoy leading clinical teams, supervising staff, and applying evidence-based methods in a forensic setting.
The role offers growth opportunities, including training for new professionals, but requires commuting via ferry and a commitment to an inclusive, safety-focused environment.
DSHS SCC Psychologist 4
Do you enjoy providing meaningful assistance to those in need? Are you looking for a great opportunity to further your career in psychology?
The Special Commitment Center (SCC) (Part of the Behavioral Health & Habilitation Administration or BHHA) is seeking a Psychologist with experience or desire to work with individuals with various paraphilias and personality disorders to join their dedicated team on McNeil Island.
The Special Commitment Center is committed to providing evidence-based treatment to reduce recidivism and increase public safety.
We are looking for teammates who share our vision and who are committed to an equitable and inclusive culture that fosters growth while promoting engagement and safety, leading to better outcomes for our agency, our clients, and our community.
Whether you are an experienced clinician and supervisor, or just getting started in the field, we have a spot for you.
This role allows the opportunity to gain experience as a clinician and supervisor with the support of other team leaders and program managers.
Those who are not yet licensed can be hired with an In-Training period that provides those with a doctorate degree the ability to acquire knowledge, skills, and abilities to serve as a Treatment Team Lead and provide the opportunity to begin supervising clinicians, both administratively and clinically.
During the In-Training period, you'll become familiarized with the SCC organization and be exposed to work within an evolving treatment program that focuses on evidence-based practices, research-based interventions, and approaches.
The position requires traveling to and from McNeil Island on a ferry. The ferry ride is considered commute time and not a paid portion of the work day. The ferry schedule may be impacted by severe weather and/or tides.
Pierce County employees are eligible to receive a free ORCA card for transportation use. 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'll do:
What we're looking for:
This job can be filled as a Psychologist 3 for those not licensed in the state of WA, based upon applicant's experience and previous education to pass WA's licensure exam within this specialized field.
Salary ranges for people hired into the Psychologist 4 training program range from $7043- $9476 per month, as a Psychologist 3.
Preferred/Desired Qualifications: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.
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.

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