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WDVA Program Assistant, Full-Time (NOC) Project, Transitional Housing Program - Orting

State of Washington

Olympia, WA

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JOB DETAILS
SALARY
$3,495–$4,542
SKILLS
Administrative Skills, Aged Care, Assisted Living, Background Investigation, Case Management, Childcare, Collective Bargaining, Community and Social Services, Compensation and Benefits, Customer Relations, Customer Satisfaction, Customer Support/Service, Department of Veterans Affairs, Driver's License, Emergency Care, Emergency Response, Emergency Services, Employee Benefits, Employee Orientation, English Language, Flexible Spending Accounts, Government, Health Maintenance, Healthcare, High School Diploma, Homeless Services, Internet Application, Lift/Move 40 Pounds, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Outlook, Microsoft Word, Network Operations Center, Nonprofit, Operational Support, Persuasion Skills, Problem Solving Skills, Project/Program Management, Psychiatry and Mental Health, Resolve Customer Issues, Safety Standards, Sales Management, Social Work, Student Loans, Testing, Time Management, Use Tax, Veterans Benefits, Willing to Travel
LOCATION
Olympia, WA
POSTED
2 days ago
Salary : $3,495.00 - $4,542.00 Monthly
Location : Pierce County - Orting, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Non-Permanent
Job Number: 2026-05301
Department: Dept. of Veterans Affairs
Division: Vet Services, Counseling and Wellness
Opening Date: 06/25/2026
Closing Date: 7/9/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

Description
Program Assistant

Night Shift

Transitional Housing Program - Orting

Full-Time - Project

Our team is excited to announce a new opportunity for a full-time Program Assistant at the Transitional Housing Program (THP) in Orting, Washington! The THP's mission is to help those in need with stable housing, vocational rehabilitation, and employment. Veterans are surrounded with staff and wrap-around services that lead to successful program completion and return to the community.

As a Program Assistant for the THP in Orting, you will provide administrative and operational support and represent the THP to clients, participants, and other members of the public during non-traditional business hours, including evenings and weekends. You will also assist in case management activities for individuals with chronic mental health and substance use disorders in a residential 24/7 setting. If you are passionate about our mission of "Serving Those Who Served," we encourage you to apply today!
Please note: The expected shift for this position is Wednesday to Saturday 10:00 p.m. to 8:30 a.m. This project position is expected to end on September 30th, 2026, and may be extended through September 30, 2029, pending approval of the VA grant renewal.
Updated as of July 1, 2025: This position is eligible for "Supplement Basic Shift Premium" for 24/7 Facilities. Employees who are assigned to a facility that provides direct care to residents, patients, and/or clients and whose duties are required to be performed on location will receive an additional one dollar ($1.00) per hour of supplemental basic shift premium for each hour of basic shift premium. This shift premium does not apply to overtime hours. The supplemental basic shift premium shall expire on June 29, 2027.

*This position has been posted within the assigned pay range through Step L. Step M has not been published as this is considered the longevity step, in alignment with state HR compensation rules.

At the , we are passionate about our mission of "Serving Those Who Served." As a national leader in our advocacy for nearly 500,000 Veterans and their family members, we strive to connect them to earned benefits as well as innovative programs focused on their overall health and wellness. In addition, we provide critical community services through a variety of programs, and at our four State Veterans Homes located in Orting, Port Orchard, Spokane, and Walla Walla. These locations provide Medicare and Medicaid nursing home care to Veterans, including, in some instances, their spouses, widows, or Gold Star Families.

Duties
Some of what you'll do:
  • Provide on-site after-hours support to clients by assisting with client inquiries, questions, and concerns.
  • Interact with clients by providing encouragement and support in their treatment and case management plans with an emphasis placed on transitioning to permanent housing, gaining and maintaining employment, and/or seeking public benefits such as Veterans disability payment.
  • Explain the THP policies, rules, guidelines, procedures, and protocols to clients which reinforce individual client participation agreements and case management plans.
  • Assist clients by coordinating recreational activities and individual client chores around the THP buildings and the Veterans Homes campuses.
  • Respond appropriately to emergency situations in an institutional setting by exercising tact, initiative, and good judgement; contact external emergency services when needed and communicate with external emergency services personnel regarding medical and/or police emergencies; brief incoming staff of recent events and debriefs Case Managers, program supervisors, and program management.
  • Perform security checks around the buildings occupied by the THP and shared ground.
  • Effectively plan and organize work and complete tasks within prescribed timeframes.
  • Perform client room inspections and confiscate contraband items (illicit substances, needles, pipes, knives, etc.) and respond to clients in a mental health and/or substance use disorder-induced crisis.
  • Assist with technical and clerical tasks and managing client room assignments.
  • And more!
*Complete Position Description available upon request*

Qualifications
Required:
  • High school graduation or GED.
  • Two (2) years of full-time clerical experience or equivalent education/experience. A combination of education and professional experience may be considered on a year-for-year basis. Professional experience must be relevant to the position.
  • Must be proficient in English language and be able to read, write, and speak English.
    AND
  • Two (2) years of full-time clerical experience or equivalent education/experience.
  • Ability to:
    • Interact with difficult clients who are experiencing homelessness, chronic mental health disorders, and substance use disorders (includes responding verbally to their inquiries, listening to clients' concerns/questions, remaining calm when dealing with upset or angry clients, and exercising sound judgment.
    • Maintain confidentiality in dealing with sensitive issues and clients.
    • Problem-solve and provide viable options to meet client needs within program rules and guidelines.
  • Basic skill level and experience with Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook, and web-based applications.
  • Must be able to lift up to 40 lbs.
Preferred/Desired:
  • Experience providing services to homeless individuals.
  • A general understanding of the social services and healthcare programs available to Veterans.
  • Ability to:
    • Work independently, yet collaboratively while considering the needs and styles of others.
    • Convey clear, timely, and persuasive messages that positively influence the thoughts and actions of others.
    • Actively participate and support efforts to accomplish the organizational mission and goals.
    • Build constructive working relationships characterized by a high level of acceptance, cooperation, and mutual regard.
    • Build and maintain internal and external customer satisfaction with services offered.
    • Earn the trust, respect, and confidence of coworkers and customers through consistent honesty, forthrightness, and professionalism in all interactions.
Special Requirements:
  • Must be able to pass a DSHS BCCU Background Check prior to beginning services and every two (2) years in accordance with WDVA Policy 615.000 Background Checks. 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 position.
  • Must comply with annual Tuberculin Screening in accordance with DVA policy 670.000 Tuberculosis Testing.
  • Requires medical evaluation, fit testing, training, and use of respiratory protection as required by the Washington Industrial Safety and Act standards. Must be able to wear a respirator, medical gloves, gowns, eye protection, and other personal protection as required by a job or task.
  • Must sign the confidentiality statement for all employees.
  • Must have a valid driver's license.
  • In an emergency situation, employees may be asked to stay for an extended period of time and perform duties appropriate to the situation.
  • Become familiar and comply with all DVA policies and procedures and Collective Bargaining Agreements as applicable.
  • Must maintain regular and reliable attendance and follow proper call-in procedures.
  • Must successfully complete, within mandated time frame, employee orientation and all other mandatory annual, in-service, and other required training.
  • Positions requiring travel must have a valid unrestricted driver's license and must be insured if driving a privately owned vehicle on state business.
  • Candidates who are offered a job with WDVA must possess work authorization which does not require sponsorship by the employer for a visa now or in the future.
Supplemental Information
Check out this awesome video to see what it is like to work for the WDVA!

Application Process:

Top candidates will be contacted directly to interview for this position. Because the selection will be based on information provided by you, it is in your best interest to identify the knowledge, skills and abilities that address the mandatory and desirable qualifications described below.

Please include the following documents with your application:

1. A letter of interest describing specific qualifications.

2. A current resume detailing applicable experience and education.

Other Information:
  • This position is non-represented

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Employer

Here at YOUR Washington Department of Veterans Affairs our employees come from all walks of life. We strive to hire great people from a wide variety of backgrounds. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or Veteran status.

We believe in the importance of recognizing the value each of us contribute to the success of the mission of the agency. Having a diverse workforce is this agency's greatest resource of strength and knowledge. It is through the combination of talents and abilities that we can pursue finding effective measures on how we can provide the best customer service. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace for everyone.

The State of Washington is an equal opportunity employer. Persons with a disability who need assistance in the application process or testing process, or those needing this announcement in an alternative format, may call (360) 725-2183. TTY users should first call 711 to access the Washington Relay Service.

You are welcome to include the name and pronoun you would like to be referred to in your materials and we will honor this as you interact with our award-winning diverse and inclusive organization.

If you have any questions regarding this announcement, program, or the agency, please contact us at recruiters@dva.wa.gov.
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. That's 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 (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 (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 , 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

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

Do you possess at least two (2) years of full-time clerical experience or equivalent education/experience?
  • Yes, I attest I have two (2) years of full-time clerical experience or equivalent education/experience.
  • No

02

Do you have a High School Diploma or equivalent?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

About the Company

S

State of Washington

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