Posting number: 2026-00644

Department: Dept. of Social and Health Services

Division: BHHA

Job classification: PROGRAM COORDINATOR

Posting type: Open & Promotional

Categories: Human Resources, Office and Administrative Support

Summary

DSHS WSH – Program Coordinator (Centralized Staffing Coordinator)
Western State Hospital in Lakewood, WA, is seeking a detail-oriented Program Coordinator (Centralized Staffing Coordinator) to join our Nursing team. This key role is responsible for managing and implementing daily, weekly, and monthly nursing staff schedules using the hospital’s electronic scheduling system. The Coordinator ensures accurate tracking of staff absences, including L&I and FMLA leave, and coordinates with Registered Nurses at all levels—from ward supervisors to shift managers—to maintain smooth and efficient staffing across the hospital. This position plays a vital part in supporting quality patient care by ensuring the right staff are in the right place at the right time.

About Western State Hospital

Located in Lakewood, Washington, Western State Hospital is one of the largest psychiatric hospitals in the state, providing inpatient mental health treatment for individuals with serious or long-term psychiatric conditions. Established in 1871, the hospital has a long history of serving Washington communities by offering comprehensive psychiatric care, treatment, and rehabilitation services. As part of the Department of Social and Health Services, Western State Hospital plays a vital role in helping patients stabilize, recover, and reintegrate into the community whenever possible. Our dedicated healthcare professionals work in a collaborative environment to provide compassionate, evidence-based care, making a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.

Some of what you'll do in this role:

Collaborate with RN3/RN4 staff to plan and manage daily, weekly, and monthly staffing needs, adjusting for hospital acuity and staff absences.
Monitor and track employee leave, including L&I, vacations, redeployments, and non-permanent positions, ensuring accurate recording and compliance with CBAs and legal requirements.
Analyze attendance data and provide managers with reports on leave patterns and concerns.
Anticipate and resolve potential staffing conflicts by forecasting needs and managing overtime assignments in accordance with CBAs and hospital policies.
Work with the Training Department to maintain appropriate staffing during training periods using float pool, on-call, and overtime resources.
Consult with supervisors and managers to identify scheduling issues, recommend solutions, and support staffing goals.
Assist in developing staffing procedures and preparing comprehensive reports on overtime, leave usage, and on-call needs.

What we're looking for:

Ability to multitask and stay organized in a fast-paced, interruption-heavy environment
Strong interpersonal skills to build rapport with peers and managers
Experience with electronic scheduling systems and proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel
Ability to work independently and manage priorities effectively
Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and handling sensitive information

Who should apply?

Professionals with a high school diploma or equivalent AND at least two years of experience in the program specialty
OR those with equivalent education and/or experience

Additional information:

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.
Pierce County employees are eligible to receive an Orca Card for transportation needs.

Ready to start a rewarding career? Apply today!

Along with your application, please include:

An updated resume
Three professional references with contact information

Questions?
Please reach out to DSHS Recruiter Ricky Luna at ricky.luna@dshs.wa.gov and reference job number #00644.

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.

Supplemental 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. 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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DSHS WSH Program Coordinator - Centralized Staffing Coordinator

About this role

Summary

Supplemental information