DSHS WSH Emergency Response Specialist

Full Job Description

WSH Behavioral Health Specialist 3 - Emergency Response Specialist

The Department of Social and Health Services is hiring a Behavioral Health Specialist 3 – Emergency Response Specialist to join the Psychiatric Emergency Response Team (PERT) at Western State Hospital.

PERT is the go-to team when behavioral health emergencies happen. You’ll use trauma-informed, evidence-based techniques to support people in crisis and protect the safety of everyone involved.

This role blends hands-on response with thoughtful follow-up. You’ll collect data, document interventions, and work closely with treatment teams to support patient recovery. You’ll also coach and model best practices, contributing to a safe and respectful hospital environment for all.

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.

Some of what you will do:

• Respond to emergent inpatient psychiatric situations using evidence-based therapeutic intervention techniques as part of the Psychiatric Emergency Response Team (PERT).
• Use evidence-based de-escalation strategies and therapeutic interventions to manage behavioral crises.
• Position, transfer, and contain patients when needed to prevent harm.
• Make rounds in patient care areas and respond to Code Gray incidents.
• Prioritize safety while using the least restrictive interventions possible.
• Provide follow-up data collection for emergency responses.
• Share timely updates with treatment teams and contribute to care planning.
• Support peers through debriefing and model trauma-informed care.

Who should apply:
A bachelor’s degree preferably involving major study in sociology or other social science.

AND

Two years of professional counseling or casework experience.

OR

One year as a Behavioral Health Specialist 2 - previously called Institution Counselor 2.

OR

Equivalent combination of education/experience.

Additional knowledge, skills, and abilities we are looking for:

• Therapeutic communication – You know how to connect with patients in distress and guide interactions toward safety and calm.
• Crisis response – You’re trained in de-escalation, seclusion/restraint principles, and can act quickly in high-stress situations.
• Team mentality – You lead by example, support your colleagues, and keep the focus on safety and respect.
• Physical readiness – You’re able to safely position, transfer, or contain patients as needed to prevent harm.
• Observation and data tracking – You notice patterns, collect follow-up data, and communicate clearly with the treatment team.
• Professionalism under pressure – You respond with poise and follow protocol, even in the most unpredictable moments.
• Dedication to recovery – You believe in the recovery model and contribute to patient care with dignity and compassion.
• Adaptability – You adjust to changing situations without losing focus or confidence.

Interested? Apply today!

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? Email saleen.hernandez@dshs.wa.gov and reference 02269.

Additional 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.

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