Enhanced Behavioral Health Program Manager
We are seeking a dedicated person to spearhead the implementation of an enhanced behavioral health support specialty contract aimed at providing intensive behavioral services and support to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This pivotal (ALTSA) role involves collaborating closely with the Developmental Disability Administration (DDA) also within DSHS to fulfill the mandates of House Bill 5187.
This is a benefit-eligible, full-time, non-permanent project job. Although temporary, this role is funded through June 2025 and will provide an excellent opportunity to lead the charge in implementing innovative and impactful behavioral support programs within our community. This Lacey-based job can be performed from any city in WA state, as a hybrid telework schedule is available, although travel will be expected on occasion.
This role requires someone with exceptional communication skills, a strong understanding of developmental disabilities, and the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders. If you are dedicated to advocating for vulnerable communities and driving impactful change in the realm of intellectual and developmental disabilities, we encourage you to apply.
Some of what you will do
- Develop a comprehensive plan for the implementation of enhanced behavioral health support specialty contracts within community residential supported living, state-operated living alternatives, or group training homes
- Advocate for vulnerable people, working in partnership with their representatives, family members, and service providers to ensure their well-being and access to quality residential services in the community
- Formulate program policies and procedures for administrative staff and contracted service providers, including drafting legislation and overseeing program adherence to policy requirements
- Conduct specialized training sessions for administrative staff and service providers to ensure compliance and optimal service delivery
- Collaborate with various entities within DSHS, county administrations, and public agencies, including rates management and contracts units, to align efforts and meet program objectives
- Gather stakeholder input and data to compile a comprehensive report for submission to the Governor and legislative committees by June 30, 2025
- Craft a detailed report outlining the design and rationale behind the enhanced behavior support specialty contract, including staffing requirements and qualifications for behavior support specialty settings
- Define the necessary departmental staffing needs to effectively manage the enhanced behavior support specialty program
- Create a robust plan for the successful implementation of enhanced behavior support specialty contracts, ensuring alignment with House Bill criteria
- Masters Degree* in social work, public administration, behavioral health, or closely related health or social service area
- And, 3 years of work experience in a setting that supports people with disabilities, behavioral health needs, vulnerable adults, long-term care services, or similar; concurrent work experience should include:
- Project management: Time management meeting project timelines staying focused and organized while balancing competing priorities, and completing quality work that meets rapid deadlines
- Workgroup and stakeholder experience: Collaboration with long-term care associations or agencies that serve Medicaid clients
- Strong technical writing skills essential for creating effective written documents, materials, and tools: Ability to articulate processes from inception to conclusion, outlining considerations, and limitations, and providing informed recommendations
- A bachelors degree in social work, public administration, behavioral health, or closely related health or social service field plus 5 years of work experience in a setting that supports people with disabilities, behavioral health needs, vulnerable adults, or similar may be considered as a substitute for the Masters degree
- Knowledge of state legislature initiative implementation, legislative drafting
- Ability to organize and prioritize distribution of projects amongst appropriate Subject Matter Experts and set deadlines for final review and approval
- Knowledge and familiarity with state and federal laws in licensing and certification of long-term care settings, services, and supports
This job is classified as a WMS2.
Interested? Please list 3 professional references' contact information on your application and include your current resume and a cover letter explaining how your knowledge, skills, and abilities qualify you for this role.
Questions? Email bastrjl@dshs.wa.gov or phone Jenny at 360-791-4168, reference 15597. To learn more about DSHS, go to (link removed)>
Our Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) mission to Transform 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 mission that you bring an equity, anti-racism, and social justice commitment to your work with DSHS. We strive to create greater access and affirming representation of the communities we serve, 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.
#WeAreHiring #InclusionWorks
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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