DSHS WSH Occupational Therapist 3

State of Washington; Lakewood (WA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Clinical autonomy and leadership support

Collaborative team environment

Competititve retirement and benefits

Job summary

Join a leading hospital as an Occupational Therapist 3, caring for patients with upper extremity injuries. This role emphasizes clinical autonomy and patient-focused care in a supportive environment. Collaborate within a dedicated team committed to social justice and equity in healthcare while enjoying a structured schedule with guaranteed hours.

Qualifications

• Three years of professional experience in occupational therapy required.
• Preferred: Three years treating upper body physical deficits.

Responsibilities

• Assess and treat patients 1:1 as referred by physicians.
• Evaluate, develop, and implement plans of care for physical deficits.
• Document progress and communicate with team members.

Skills

Assessment

Documentation

Communication

Behavioral Health Knowledge

Education

Graduated from an accredited Occupational Therapy program

Successful completion of the NBCOT exam

Job description

DSHS WSH Occupational Therapist 3

As part of Western State Hospital’s medical clinic, we have an opening for an occupational therapist to join our growing team addressing the physical health needs of patients referred by our internal physicians. This is a recently established team focused on caring for the physical deficits of patients, particularly upper extremity injuries and/or deficits. We are opening a new physical clinic soon and seek a team member interested in treating a wide range of upper extremity injuries in an environment that supports thoughtful therapeutic intervention. This is an opportunity to contribute to a newly formed group and enhance your skills.

This position is M-F, 8-4:30, onsite.

Pierce County employees are eligible for an Orca Card for transportation. Opportunities performed on-site at least three days a week may be eligible for an additional 5% premium pay, and those hired for this role are entitled to an additional 5% assignment pay.

Some of what you'll do

1. Assess and treat patients 1:1 as referred by physicians.
2. Evaluate, develop, and implement plans of care for physical deficits, utilizing evidence-based practices.
3. Treat patients according to these plans.
4. Document progress and communicate with team members.
5. Supervise occupational therapy assistants, interns, or students as needed.

What we're looking for

1. Experience with patients with behavioral and physical health diagnoses.
2. Proficiency in documentation.
3. Ability to educate and adapt treatments to patient strengths and challenges.
4. Knowledge of various treatment modalities based on evidence-based practice.
5. Ability to establish rapport with patients with diverse communication and social skills.
6. Strong communication skills for team collaboration and feedback.
7. Willingness to learn and adapt to the psychiatric, forensic environment.

Who should apply?

Graduates from an accredited Occupational Therapy program, successful completion of the NBCOT exam, and three years of professional experience. Preferred: three years treating upper body physical deficits.

Perks and daily work environment

• Non-profit, non-production environment emphasizing patient care.
• Clinical autonomy and leadership support for innovative interventions.
• Collaborative team environment fostering professional growth.
• Competitive retirement and benefits supporting work-life balance.

Additional information

• Focus on quality of care over productivity metrics.
• Guaranteed 40 hours/week with no overtime demands.
• All state holidays and weekends off.
• Autonomy in developing treatment plans, with input from licensed professionals.
• Sessions are 1:1, with patients referred by physicians, and always with staff present.

Learn more about Western State Hospital and our impact here.

The department values equity, anti-racism, and social justice, and encourages applicants to bring these commitments to their work.

Questions?

Contact [e-mail] or call [phone]. Background checks may be conducted prior to hiring. Valid driver’s license and insurance required for driving on state business.

We are an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and inclusion. Accommodations available upon request.