Temporary Extra Help - Behavioral Health Specialist

Temporary Extra Help - Behavioral Health Specialist

Salary

$32.41 - $34.99 Hourly

Location

County Courthouse - 311 Grand Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225

Job Type

Temporary/Extra Help

Job Number

TMP B050* 455 1026

Department

Superior/Juvenile Court Administration

Opening Date

10/09/2026

Closing Date

Continuous

Salary

DOQ

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Summary

The Whatcom County Juvenile Division of Superior Court Administration is currently recruiting for a Temporary Behavioral Health Specialist.

Behavioral Health Specialists provide intensive case management, or non-emergent crisis response or other applicable behavioral health services to youth working with Juvenile Court. These positions provide screening, outreach, engagement and supportive services for participants through case management activities and collaboration with juvenile probation officers/court services officers, service providers, and other community organizations.

This position will remain open until filled. Applications will be reviewed and interviews scheduled as they come in. Recruitment will be suspended once the position has been filled.

Key Duties Include:

• Cultivates contacts and establish and maintain positive, effective, collaborative working relationships with agencies and organizations throughout Whatcom County in an effort to care for and assist individuals working with Juvenile Court who are in need of behavioral health services.
• Engages with youth and youth adults with a focus on Opioid/SUD services, medication assisted treatment (MAT) and other behavioral health and wellness services.
• Provides outreach, coordination and liaison services to youth who use opioids, are suspected of having a substance use disorder or are in need of mental health services.
• Collaborates with outside service providers to bridge gaps in existing community social services to better serve the unique needs of individuals encountered and help reduce barriers experienced by juveniles involved with Juvenile Court. This may include facilitating meetings to ensure collaborative care.
• Attends weekly probation staffing and detention interdisciplinary team meetings as scheduled.
• May provide weekly skill groups for youth in juvenile detention, or other court involved youths.
• Facilitate access to and coordinate SUD assessment and treatment services.
• Provides advocacy and support for participants within the social service, medical and/or criminal justice system including court appearances, written communication and follow up with probation, judicial officers, mental health and substance use disorder providers, , medical care and other community partners.
• Collects and maintains accurate data as directed.

Supervisor: Superior and Juvenile Court Administrator

Hours of Work: Weekdays, up to 64 hours per month (part-time, hourly, temporary).

Wage: Depending on qualifications, the hourly rate ranges from $32.41 to $34.99.

Duration: This position is currently funded through December 31, 2026. Assignment may be extended dependent upon available funding.

Whatcom County Superior Court is an independent branch of government and personnel employed under the judicial branch of government. The positions are in accordance with GR 29. Under GR 29, the Presiding Judge is responsible for the daily operations of the Court, which includes working conditions, hiring, discipline, and termination decisions.

Qualifications

Requires a Bachelor's degree in social work, social sciences or other field directly related to human services AND 3 years of professional experience working with juveniles with behavioral health and/or substance use disorders.

Experience working with families desired.

Special Requirements:

• Must have a driving record that meets County standards and possess a valid drivers license at time of hire and throughout employment.
• Background check must meet County criteria, including disclosure of serious crimes and sex crimes per RCW 43.43.
• Must complete pre-employment polygraph examination.
• Must have current Washington State Suicide Prevention Training, or obtain within 90 days of employment.

At its sole discretion, Whatcom County may consider combinations of education, experience,

certifications, and training in lieu of specifically required qualifications contained herein.

Distinguish yourself in public service and make a commitment to our future.

Whatcom County, WA is truly special and a great place to call home!

Whatcom County offers excellent benefits at no cost to employees, including:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage for employees AND their family
• Generous paid leave provisions, including vacation, sick leave, and 13 paid holidays per year
• Eligibility for a lifetime pension through the Washington State Public Employees Retirement System (PERS), with joint contributions required from the employee and the County
• $50,000 Life Insurance coverage for employees
• Option to invest in a 457 Deferred Compensation Retirement Plan
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) available for annual health care and/or dependent care expenses
• Voluntary Term Life Insurance and Personal Accident Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Additional benefit information

01

Are you aware that this position is currently funded through December 31, 2026, and that continuation of funding beyond that date is not guaranteed?

• Yes
• No

02

Do you have a Bachelors Degree in social work, social science or other field related directly to human services?

• Yes
• No

03

Do you have at least three years of professional experience working with juveniles with behavioral health and/ or substance use disorders?

• Yes
• No

04

Describe your experience working in governmental and private sector human services programs and systems:

Required Question

Employer Whatcom County

Address 311 Grand Ave, Suite 107

Bellingham, Washington, 98225

Phone (360) 778-5300

Website https://www.whatcomcounty.us/1675/Current-Job-Openings