DSHS WSH Program Coordinator - Centralized Staffing Coordinator

DSHS WSH – Program Coordinator (Centralized Staffing Coordinator)

Western State Hospital in Lakewood, WA, is seeking a detail-oriented Program 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.

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.

• 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.

• 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

• 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

• 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.

Along with your application, please include:

• An updated resume
• Three professional references with contact information

Please reach out to DSHS Recruiter Ricky Luna a.gov and reference job number #00644.

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…