WDVA Program Assistant, Full-Time (NOC) Project, Transitional Housing Program – Orting

State of Washington•Pierce County – Orting, WA

5d•Onsite

About The Position

The Transitional Housing Program (THP) in Orting, Washington, is seeking a full-time Program Assistant. The THP's mission is to provide stable housing, vocational rehabilitation, and employment assistance to veterans. The Program Assistant will offer administrative and operational support, represent the THP to clients and the public during non-traditional hours (evenings and weekends), and assist with case management for individuals with chronic mental health and substance use disorders in a 24/7 residential setting. The position is a project role expected to end on September 30, 2026, with a potential extension to September 30, 2029, pending VA grant renewal. This position is eligible for a "Supplement Basic Shift Premium" for 24/7 Facilities, providing an additional $1.00 per hour for direct care hours, expiring June 29, 2027. The Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA) is dedicated to serving veterans and their families, connecting them to benefits and providing community services through four State Veterans Homes.

Requirements

High school graduation or GED.
Two (2) years of full-time clerical experience or equivalent education/experience. A combination of education and professional experience may be considered on a year-for-year basis.
Professional experience must be relevant to the position.
Must be proficient in English language and be able to read, write, and speak English.
Ability to interact with difficult clients who are experiencing homelessness, chronic mental health disorders, and substance use disorders (includes responding verbally to their inquiries, listening to clients' concerns/questions, remaining calm when dealing with upset or angry clients, and exercising sound judgment.
Maintain confidentiality in dealing with sensitive issues and clients.
Problem-solve and provide viable options to meet client needs within program rules and guidelines.
Basic skill level and experience with Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook, and web-based applications.
Must be able to lift up to 40 lbs.
Must be able to pass a DSHS BCCU Background Check prior to beginning services and every two (2) years in accordance with WDVA Policy 615.000 Background Checks.
Must comply with annual Tuberculin Screening in accordance with DVA policy 670.000 Tuberculosis Testing.
Requires medical evaluation, fit testing, training, and use of respiratory protection as required by the Washington Industrial Safety and Act standards.
Must be able to wear a respirator, medical gloves, gowns, eye protection, and other personal protection as required by a job or task.
Must sign the confidentiality statement for all employees.
Must have a valid driver's license.
In an emergency situation, employees may be asked to stay for an extended period of time and perform duties appropriate to the situation.
Become familiar and comply with all DVA policies and procedures and Collective Bargaining Agreements as applicable.
Must maintain regular and reliable attendance and follow proper call-in procedures.
Must successfully complete, within mandated time frame, employee orientation and all other mandatory annual, in-service, and other required training.
Positions requiring travel must have a valid unrestricted driver's license and must be insured if driving a privately owned vehicle on state business.
Candidates who are offered a job with WDVA must possess work authorization which does not require sponsorship by the employer for a visa now or in the future.

Nice To Haves

Experience providing services to homeless individuals.
A general understanding of the social services and healthcare programs available to Veterans.
Ability to work independently, yet collaboratively while considering the needs and styles of others.
Convey clear, timely, and persuasive messages that positively influence the thoughts and actions of others.
Actively participate and support efforts to accomplish the organizational mission and goals.
Build constructive working relationships characterized by a high level of acceptance, cooperation, and mutual regard.
Build and maintain internal and external customer satisfaction with services offered.
Earn the trust, respect, and confidence of coworkers and customers through consistent honesty, forthrightness, and professionalism in all interactions.

Responsibilities

Provide on-site after-hours support to clients by assisting with client inquiries, questions, and concerns.
Interact with clients by providing encouragement and support in their treatment and case management plans with an emphasis placed on transitioning to permanent housing, gaining and maintaining employment, and/or seeking public benefits such as Veterans disability payment.
Explain the THP policies, rules, guidelines, procedures, and protocols to clients which reinforce individual client participation agreements and case management plans.
Assist clients by coordinating recreational activities and individual client chores around the THP buildings and the Veterans Homes campuses.
Respond appropriately to emergency situations in an institutional setting by exercising tact, initiative, and good judgement; contact external emergency services when needed and communicate with external emergency services personnel regarding medical and/or police emergencies; brief incoming staff of recent events and debriefs Case Managers, program supervisors, and program management.
Perform security checks around the buildings occupied by the THP and shared ground.
Effectively plan and organize work and complete tasks within prescribed timeframes.
Perform client room inspections and confiscate contraband items (illicit substances, needles, pipes, knives, etc.) and respond to clients in a mental health and/or substance use disorder-induced crisis.
Assist with technical and clerical tasks and managing client room assignments.