DSHS OOS Human Resource Consultant

Strong workplaces are built on fair decisions, clear guidance and trusted HR partnership, and our Human Resource Consultants deliver exactly that. DSHS’s Office of the Secretary (OOS), Human Resources Division (HRD) is hiring for a Human Resource Consultant 3 to join our team based at Western State Hospital in Lakewood, WA.

As an HR Consultant with DSHS, your work plays a meaningful role in shaping workplace culture. The consultation you provide helps leaders address concerns early, communicate clearly and make decisions that employees can trust. Over time, that work builds consistency, confidence and stronger working relationships across teams. You will collaborate with a diverse team of 200+ HR professionals dedicated to strengthening our organizational resilience by cultivating a skilled, adaptable, and supported workforce.

This position is currently approved to work a flexible/hybrid schedule, requiring a minimum of two in‑office days per week. Operational needs may require additional on‑site work, and the days in which you telework may vary each week. Flexibility to be on‑site when needed is important for this role.

Pierce County employees receive a free ORCA card for transportation purposes. Opportunities performed on‑site at these work locations at least three days a week may be eligible for an additional 5 % premium on‑site pay along with the advertised salary.

• Provide consultative support to senior leaders, managers and supervisors surrounding employee performance, investigations, labor relations, workforce planning, employee leave and other core human resources functions.
• Analyze complex employee relations issues and develop practical, strategic options that support sound decision‑making and timely resolution.
• Draft clear, well‑reasoned correspondence, including responses to complaints, performance expectations, disciplinary actions and grievance responses.
• Represent human resources in grievance meetings, appeals and adjudicative forums, ensuring positions are well supported, consistent and defensible.
• Serve as a trusted subject‑matter expert on performance management, employment laws and department policy, offering guidance that supports consistency and fairness.
• Develop and deliver tools, resources and training that help leaders manage their workforce effectively while reducing risk and strengthening working relationships.
• Approach consultations with a solutions‑focused mindset, providing risk‑based guidance with options and helping leaders understand the trade‑offs associated with each path forward.
• Partner with labor relations staff and the Office of the Attorney General to prepare for hearings, respond to information requests and support arbitration matters.
• Participate in special projects and work groups that improve HRD’s processes, service delivery and consistency across programs.

Those with a bachelor’s degree with a focus on business, human resources, social or organizational behavioral sciences, or related field, AND two years of professional human‑resource work experience. Equivalent education/experience may also qualify.

• Human resources expertise:
  Applying working knowledge of employee relations, leave laws, reasonable accommodation, discipline and investigations in real workplace situations. A commitment to ongoing professional development, or HR certification is highly valued.
• Clear communication:
  Explaining rules, decisions and expectations in writing and conversation so people understand what is happening and why.
• Confidentiality:
  Handling private and sensitive information with care, discretion and professionalism at all times.
• Training skills:
  Confidence in teaching human resources topics in a way that is clear, useful and appropriate for different audiences.
• Inclusive consultation:
  Ability to provide HR consultation that considers equity, access and inclusion, supporting respectful workplaces and effective supervisor–employee relationships.
• Sound judgment:
  Knowing how to weigh risks, consider impacts and choose fair options when situations are complex or sensitive.

Apply today!