DSHS WSH Investigator 1

Posting number: 2026-06094

Department: Dept. of Social and Health Services

Division: BHHA

Job classification: INVESTIGATOR 1

Posting type: Open & Promotional

Categories: Health Services, Mental Health, Social Services, Investigative, Miscellaneous, Health Care Support

SummaryDSHS WSH Investigator 1
 
Western State Hospital has an opportunity for Investigator 1 to join its team of professionals in Lakewood. Investigator 1 plays a pivotal role in the investigation of patient rights violations and follow-up activities at Western State Hospital to fulfill the employer's legal obligations and mitigate risk.

In this role, you conduct routine patient-rights investigations and follow-up activities at Western State Hospital to ensure compliance with CMS standards, regulatory requirements, and state and federal laws. You help strengthen a culture of excellence by monitoring adherence to policies and procedures, and you provide guidance and education to employees on investigative practices when needed.

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

Some of what you'll do:

• Independently investigate patient grievances and allegations of abuse or neglect, gathering and preserving evidence such as statements, incident reports, and security reports.
• Review patient records and other relevant documentation to support accurate and thorough investigative findings.
• Interview grievants, respondents, subjects, and witnesses - including individuals who may be angry or hesitant - to obtain information consistent with CBAs, RCWs, WACs, and DSHS/WSH policies.
• Review patient comments and grievances received by the PRG department to determine whether they meet criteria for abuse or neglect and refer them to appropriate stakeholders when necessary.
• Research, analyze, and evaluate information from multiple sources and complete clear, concise investigative summaries with strong grammar and punctuation.
• Conduct occasional reviews of investigations completed by other departments and collaborate to develop investigation plans, identify witnesses, gather evidence, and prepare reports.

What we're looking for:

• Demonstrated reliability and dependability with consistent daily attendance.
• Ability to efficiently manage a dynamic investigative caseload and meet required timelines.
• Strong writing skills with the ability to produce clear, complete, and well-organized reports and declarations.
• Ability to present investigative information orally in a clear, concise, and factual manner.
• Strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills, including the ability to work effectively with difficult individuals and challenging situations.
• Excellent time-management skills and the ability to work independently while maintaining high investigative standards.
  

Who should apply?
Professionals with one year of experience as a Claims Representative or Public Benefits Specialist.
Or
One year of experience as an investigator with a criminal justice government agency or private organization or other directly allied field.

Note: Two years of related college-level course work may be substituted for one year of experience.

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.

Questions? Please contact vincent.hamilton@dshs.wa.gov and reference #06094.

Supplemental informationPrior 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.
 
 
 E-Verify® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security