State Hospital Diversion Programs Supervisor (WMS2/DBHR) - Internal

State Hospital Diversion Programs Supervisor (WMS2/DBHR) - Internal

Salary

$81,348.00 - $113,880.00 Annually

Location

Thurston County - Olympia, WA

Job Type

Agency Internal - Permanent

Remote Employment

Remote Optional

Job Number

2026-05956

Department

Health Care Authority

Division

BHR

Opening Date

07/17/2026

Closing Date

7/27/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Description

State Hospital Diversion Programs Supervisor (WMS2/DBHR)

71094047

This opportunity is internal and available to current HCA employees only.

This Supervisory role leads a team of behavioral health professionals developing and implementing programs that divert individuals from involuntary psychiatric hospitalization through community-based mental health services, long-term civil commitment options, and wraparound supports. This position oversees statewide behavioral health capacity planning, advises executive leadership on funding sustainability, and interfaces with multiple State agencies. Well-suited for a seasoned leader with clinical and systems-level experience, this role drives recovery policy across Washington's public mental health system.

All HCA employees will apply an equity lens to their work, which may include but is not limited to all analyses of core business and processes.

Division philosophy statement:

The Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery values and seeks diversity, equity, and inclusion as integral to the behavioral health field. We support, embrace, and celebrate everyone's uniqueness, promote inclusion, and commit to remove systemic barriers that affect our workforce, our providers, and the people that receive prevention, treatment, and/or recovery support services.

About the division:

The Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery (DBHR) provides support for substance use treatment, mental health services, and problem gambling services through prevention, treatment, peer, and recovery support. Programs promote strategies that support healthy lifestyles by preventing the misuse of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs, supporting recovery from substance use, promoting recovery and resiliency, reducing stigma, and mitigating the effects of problem gambling on the individual and family. DBHR brings operational elements such as substance use and mental health into closer working relations to serve individuals more effectively and efficiently.

About the position:

The State Hospital Diversion Programs Supervisor is located within the Adult Services and Involuntary Treatment section, a section within the Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery. This position is supervised by the Adult services and Involuntary Treatment Section Manager. The State Hospital Diversion team functions within DBHR as the hub for long term civil commitment services, transitional psychiatric residential care services, and programs that provide intensive outpatient treatment with the goal of reducing re-admissions to inpatient psychiatric hospitalization. These programs utilize a variety of purchasing strategies and serves a diversity of specialized populations.

This position is eligible to telework and is typically not required to report on-site. The default assigned work location of all Health Care Authority (HCA) positions - both on-site and telework eligible positions - is within the State of Washington. This position reports to Olympia, WA. Frequency of onsite work will vary based on business and operational needs. All agency employees are required to report on-site in Olympia on their first and last days of employment to pick up and return state-issued equipment, regardless of telework status or location.

Duties

Some of what you will do:

• Review behavioral health system needs and provide leadership that supports adult and older adult mental health services within Federal regulations, Medicaid State Plan, 1915 (b) and 1115 Medicaid Transformation implementation, SAMHSA Federal Block Grant requirements, other federal grant activities, and WAC/RCW.
• Provide executive leadership with strategies related to recovery-oriented and community-based behavioral health services for adults and older adults.
• Provide strategic oversight of behavioral health facility capacity within Washington State. Create and maintain an inventory of existing and incoming behavioral health facilities as well as assessing community and statewide impacts related to the locations and quantities of those facilities.
• Lead an internal steering committee to facilitate organization and structure within the planning of new and existing behavioral health service capacity with an emphasis on evaluating funding sustainability and service delivery where it is most needed.
• Determine and approve strategies for program implementation and development, utilizing management information, clinical expertise, and an in-depth understanding of the overall public community behavioral health system, while ensuring communication and coordination with MCOs, BH-ASOs, providers, individuals and families, and other stakeholders.
• Provide direct supervision to State Hospital Diversion team members, reviewing status of current projects, contracts, initiatives, and reports. Ensuring timely and accurate authorizations and provider payment. Identify obstacles and develop strategies to work around obstacles and implement change.
• Provide support, supervision, and guidance related to PACT, IRT and IBHTF program managers to maximize availability, sustainability, and high-quality service delivery in partnership with internal, external and contracted entities.
• Oversight of the LTCC Quality Assurance program and associated activities.
• Provide guidance for politically sensitive issues, significant incidents, or reported actions that may have a negative impact on the division or the agency.
• Secure final approval of significant budgetary actions and new division level policy. Manage and monitor proviso/legislative initiatives.
• Represent adult and older adult mental health in quality management and measurement activities and committees.

Qualifications

Required qualifications:

Qualifying candidates will meet one of the following criteria options:

Option 1:

Master's or other advanced degree in a behavioral health related field and five (5) years of experience working in the public community behavioral health system, including experience as a Mental Health Professional in a community behavioral health agency to demonstrate clinical acumen and knowledge of the operations within the public behavioral health service settings.

Option 2:

Bachelors degree in a field identified above, and seven (7) years of experience working in the public community behavioral health system, including experience as a Mental Health Professional in a community behavioral health agency to demonstrate clinical acumen and knowledge of the operations within the public behavioral health service settings.

Option 3:

Associate degree and nine (9) years of experience working in the public community behavioral health system, including experience as a Mental Health Professional in a community behavioral health agency to demonstrate clinical acumen and knowledge of the operations within the public behavioral health service settings.

Option 4:

Eleven (11) years of experience working in the public community behavioral health system, including experience as a Mental Health Professional in a community behavioral health agency to demonstrate clinical acumen and knowledge of the operations within the public behavioral health service settings.

Required competencies:

• The ability to take action to learn and grow.
• The ability to take action to meet the needs of others.
• Direct knowledge of Washington States community behavioral health system, including outpatient and inpatient care, systems and coordination of treatment (e.g.: MCOs, Behavioral Health Agencies, Dept. of Corrections).
• Experience and knowledge related to the role and function of DCRs and involuntary treatment, HCLA, and Developmental Disabilities Administration, understanding of crisis and commitment services/statutes, evaluation and treatment facilities, community psychiatric hospitalization, state hospitals, and pertinent CFR, RCW, and WAC related to mental health, including Medicaid regulations.
• Knowledge of behavioral health programs and models of care based on recovery and resilience and national and local trends in care and practice, including evidence-based and research-based practices.
• Knowledge of mental health managed care principles and contract issues related to federal funding, medical necessity, resource management, access, quality improvement, cultural competency, and provider contracting.
• Knowledge of the protocols and processes of the executive and legislative branches of state and local government.
• Knowledge of continuous quality improvement principles.
• Knowledge of state contracting, contract management principles, and contract compliance regulations.
• Knowledge of the Washington State Centennial Accord and the Government-to-Government relationship with Tribes.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills and ability to work collaboratively with multiple stakeholders including individuals with lived experience, advocates, partner state agencies, providers, state and local government officials and/or legislators and legislative staff in the analysis / development of policies and procedures, WAC and statute for management of publicly funded mental health services.

Preferred qualifications:

• Demonstrated experience supervising staff or direct reports.
• Experience in the provision and supervision of inpatient and outpatient behavioral health services within Washingtons public behavioral health system.
• Project management skills
• Grant writing experience

How to apply:

Only candidates who reflect the minimum qualifications on their NEOGOV profile will be considered. Failure to follow the application instructions below may lead to disqualification. To apply for this position, you will need to complete your profile which includes three professional references and attach in separate files:

• A cover letter that specifically addresses how you meet the qualifications for this position
• Current resume

To take advantage of veteran preference, please do the following:

• Attach a copy of your DD214 (Member 4 long-form copy), NGB 22, or USDVA signed verification of service letter.
• Please black out any PII (personally identifiable information) data such as social security numbers. Include your name as it appears on your application in careers.wa.gov.

Supplemental Information

About HCA:

Functioning as both the states largest health care purchaser and its behavioral health authority, the Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) is a leader in ensuring Washington residents have the opportunity to be as healthy as possible.

There are three pillars of our work: Apple Health (Medicaid); the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) and School Employees Benefits Board (SEBB) programs; and behavioral health and recovery. Under these pillars, HCA purchases health care, including behavioral health treatment for more than 2.7 million Washington residents and provides behavioral health prevention, crisis, and recovery supports to all Washington residents.

What we have to offer:

• Meaningful work with friendly co-workers who care about those we serve Voices of HCA
• A clear agency mission that drives our work and is person-centered HCAs Mission, Vision & Values
• A healthy work/life balance, including alternative/flexible schedules and mobile work options.
• A great total compensation and benefit package WA State Government Benefits
• A safe, pleasant workplace in a convenient location with restaurants, and shopping nearby.
• And free parking!

Notes:

Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history will be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment.

HCA is an equal opportunity employer. We value the importance of creating an environment in which all employees can feel respected, included, and empowered to bring unique ideas to the agency. HCA has five employee resource groups (ERGs). ERGs are voluntary, employee-led groups whose aim is to foster a diverse, inclusive workplace aligned with HCA's mission. Our diversity and inclusion efforts include embracing different cultures, backgrounds and viewpoints while fostering growth and advancement in the workplace. Studies have shown women, racial and ethnic minorities, and persons of disability are less likely to apply for jobs unless they feel they meet every qualification as described in a job description. Persons over 40 years of age, disabled and Vietnam era veterans, as well as people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are also encouraged to apply. If you have any questions about the required qualifications or how your experience relates to them, please contact us at HCAjobs@hca.wa.gov.Persons with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may contact Lisa Fleming at (360) 725-1723 or lisa.fleming@hca.wa.gov

The Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) is an E-Verify employer. All applicants with a legal right to work in the United States are encouraged to apply.

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

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter to receive a list of new job postings at HCA.

More than Just a Paycheck!

Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.

We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. Thats why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.

Read about our benefits:

The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.

Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.

Insurance Benefits

Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.

Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.

To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.

Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.

Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.

The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.

Retirement and Deferred Compensation

State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems web site.

Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.

Social Security

All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Holidays

Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.

Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.

Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.

Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.

Sick Leave

Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.

Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

Vacation (Annual Leave)

Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.

Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.

Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

As provided in WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.

Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.

Military Leave

Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.

Bereavement Leave

Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.

Additional Leave

Leave Sharing

Parental Leave

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 01-07-2026

01

I acknowledge that this opportunity is only open to internal HCA employees.

• Yes
• No

02

I acknowledge that this opportunity will require some travel and in-person site visits. I also acknowledge that telework is a privilege and may be revoked at any time.

• Yes
• No

03

Please select the highest level of education that you have completed:

• High school graduation or equivalent
• Associate degree
• Bachelors degree
• Masters degree or higher
• None of the above

04

Which of the following best describes your professional experience supervising staff or direct reports?

• I do not have this experience
• Less than 1 year
• More than 1 year, but less than 3 years
• More than 3 years, but less than 5 years
• More than 5 years, but less than 7 years
• More than 7 years, but less than 9 years
• More than 9 years, but less than 11 years
• More than 11 years

05

Which of the following best describes your professional experience with Washington States community behavioral health system, including outpatient and inpatient care, systems and coordination of treatment? (e.g.: MCOs, Behavioral Health Agencies, Dept. of Corrections)

• I do not have this experience
• Less than 1 year
• More than 1 year, but less than 3 years
• More than 3 years, but less than 5 years
• More than 5 years, but less than 7 years
• More than 7 years, but less than 9 years
• More than 9 years, but less than 11 years
• More than 11 years

06

Which of the following best describes your professional experience working in involuntary treatment, HCLA, Developmental Disabilities Administration, crisis and commitment services, evaluation and treatment facilities, community psychiatric hospitalization, and/or State hospitals?

• I do not have this experience
• Less than 1 year
• More than 1 year, but less than 3 years
• More than 3 years, but less than 5 years
• More than 5 years, but less than 7 years
• More than 7 years, but less than 9 years
• More than 9 years, but less than 11 years
• More than 11 years

07

If you indicated you have the experience(s) noted in the above questions, please explain how, where, and when you gained this knowledge and experience (must be reflected in the work experience of your application). Do not state "see resume" or copy and paste that material. If you answered no, please type N/A in the text box below.

08

Do you have the ability to take action to learn and grow?

• Yes
• No

09

Do you have the ability to take action to meet the needs of others?

• Yes
• No

10

Will you require sponsorship for an employment-related immigration benefit, either now or in the future?

• Yes
• No

11

If hired for this position, do you currently possess required documents to allow you to legally work within the United States? The attached link lists acceptable documents: https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents

• Yes
• No

12

I acknowledge that I have included at least three references, and that I have uploaded a cover letter and resume in the attachments section of my application.

• Yes
• No

Required Question

Employer State of Washington

Address View Job Posting for Agency Information

View Job Posting for Location, Washington, 98504

Website http://www.careers.wa.gov