DSHS BHHA Legal and Privacy Coordinator

Posting number: 2026-05950

Department: Dept. of Social and Health Services

Division: BHHA

Job classification: WMS BAND 2

Posting type: Open & Promotional

Categories: Administration, Code Enforcement, Health Services, Legal, Mental Health, Public Health, Social Services, Project Management, Allied Health, Research

Summary

Description

We have an opportunity for an expert in policy to join our team at the Behavioral Health and Habilitation Administration(BHHA)  with the Special Commitment Center (SCC) as the Legal and Privacy Coordinator. Reporting to the Chief of Forensics Services, you will serve as the point of contact to the agency’s Assistant Attorney General’s office in all matters related to resident admissions, releases, orders and scheduling of legal testimony. This position supervises one administrative assistant. 
  
Some of what you'll be doing:
 

• Oversees all legal matters related to resident admissions, releases, and legal inquiries.
• Ensures timely and proper service of legal documents to residents and staff.
• Serves as the internal language access coordinator.
• Makes determinations regarding legal mail that is flagged by mailroom staff as containing possible contraband.
• Collaborates with staff regarding the creation of policies and procedures related to applicable legal processes.
• Ensure residents have timely access to their own clinical and medical records by processing requests for resident review.
• Coordinates staff appearances at depositions and court proceedings.
• Monitors the delivery of services and compiles data for quality.
• Identifies, briefs, and provides regular updates to leadership related to resident legal matters.
• Document privacy breach investigation findings and provides reports and mitigates recommendations to leadership.

Please note: This position reports to work at the Special Commitment Center, Total Confinement Facility, McNeil Island.   SCC employees received an additional $10.00 per day premium pay in addition to advertised salary and a free ORCA card for transportation use.  Ferry transportation is provided to McNeil Island employees.  Opportunities performed on-site at least three days a week may be eligible for an additional 5% premium pay in addition to the advertised salary.

Who should apply:
Professionals with a two year degree in legal secretary studies, paralegal studies or related field of study, and five years of legal office experience.

Or,

Equivalent education or experience.

And,

Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite to include, Excel, Outlook, and Teams

Preferred/Desired Competencies: 

• Ability to organize and present technical information and complex subject matter clearly and effectively in oral and written format.
• The ability to work collaboratively, professionally and effectively with internal and external stakeholders.  

Interested? 

Include the following with your application:

• A current resume
• A current letter of interest describing your experience related to this job.
• Names and contacts of three professional references.

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.

If you have any questions about this opportunity, you are encouraged to contact the Recruiter, Chris Pulley, by email at chris.pulley@dshs.wa.gov  and in the subject line reference hiring project 05950.

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.

 

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