DSHS WSH Emergency Response Specialist

State of Washington•Pierce County – Lakewood, WA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

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. Schedule is Thursday-Monday 6:30am - 3pm, with Tues/Wed off. 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.

Requirements

A bachelor’s degree preferably involving major study in sociology or other social science.
Two years of professional counseling or casework experience.
One year as a Behavioral Health Specialist 2 - previously called Institution Counselor 2.
Equivalent combination of education/experience.
Must have a Nursing Assistant Registration (NAR).
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.

Responsibilities

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.