DSHS ESH Occupational Therapy Assistant 2

Posting number: 2026-06275

Department: Dept. of Social and Health Services

Division: BHHA

Job classification: OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY ASSISTANT 2

Posting type: Open & Promotional

Categories: Health Services, Mental Health, Social Services, Human Services, Allied Health, Medical/Dental, Health Care Support

SummaryDSHS ESH Occupational Therapy Assistant 2
 
Do you have a solid understanding of the OT Framework, critical thinking skills, the ability to collaborate with team members, a creative spirit, and sharp observation skills? If so, you may be just what we are looking for.

Eastern State Hospital is seeking an experienced Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) to collaborate with our Occupational Therapy (OT) team in the treatment of hospitalized forensic and civil patients. You will provide services to the Adult Psychiatric Unit (APU), Forensic Service Unit (FSU) and Competency Restoration (CR). As an integrated part of the treatment team, you will aid to assess clients, implement treatment plans, and work with our talented OTs, COTAs, and multidisciplinary teams in helping patients meet their treatment goals. This job is a great opportunity to grow your career and to make a difference in people's lives!
 
This job is day shift, with weekends and holidays off! Why COTAs, like you, enjoy a career with DSHS.

Schedule: Monday-Friday 8:00am-4:30pm. 
 
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.
 
Some of what you'll do

• At Eastern State Hospital, consult with others concerning patient strengths, needs, and functional levels
• Collect occupational performance data for screening
• Evaluation and re-evaluation as directed
• Administer and score routine and criterion-referenced assessments
• Assist in the development of plans and treatment goals for individuals and groups, recommend intervention or changes in intervention
• Plan treatment programs to meet those needs
• Implement planned interventions. Plan and implement activity programs to meet identified needs of patients
• Document patients' response to treatment following ESH and CMS standards: Document attendance, participation and goal achievement
• Model pro-social behaviors and manage patients' maladaptive behaviors while ensuring the safety and security of the patients and environment
• Communicate to others in a clear and effective manner
• Report pertinent information to supervisor and treatment team
• Follow correct billing process and maintain billing records

Who should apply

Graduate of an accredited educational program for occupational therapy assistants

AND

Successful completion of the National Board for Certification in occupational therapy (NBCOT) assistant certification examination

AND

Active Washington state license to practice as an occupational therapy assistant

AND

18 months experience as an Occupational Therapy Assistant 1.

Physical ability to move patients and equipment.

Equivalent education/experience.

 Knowledge, Skills and experience 

• In-depth working knowledge of behavioral patterns and group dynamics
• Knowledge of mental illness and recovery principles
• Knowledge of substance use maladaptive behaviors as well as recovery strategies
• Knowledge of self-regulation and emotional regulation through the sensory system
• Ability to work with difficult or angry patients in a therapeutic, non-threatening manner
• Experience in intervening and deescalating crisis/dangerous situations
• Must be able to communicate effectively with management, peers, patients, and the public as required to carry out the assigned duties of the position
• Demonstrates the principals of universal precautions and infection control practices
• Demonstrate proficient operation of the following equipment: computer, copy machines, metal detector, and patient lifting equipment
• Knowledge of all hospital, state, and federal regulatory standards, policies and procedures

Questions? Please reach out to DSHS Recruiter and reference 06275.

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.

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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