WDVA Program Specialist 3, Suicide Prevention Program Specialist, Full-Time, Spokane

WDVA Program Specialist 3, Suicide Prevention Program Specialist, Full-Time, Spokane

Salary

$59,760.00 - $78,504.00 Annually

Location

Spokane County - Spokane, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Job Number

2026-08236

Department

Dept. of Veterans Affairs

Division

Vet Services, Counseling and Wellness

Opening Date

10/05/2026

Closing Date

10/19/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Description

Suicide Prevention Program Specialist

(Program Specialist 3)

Full-Time - Permanent

Spokane Washington

Make a Difference Where it Matters Most. The Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA) is excited to announce that we are now hiring a Full-Time Suicide Prevention Program Specialist, (Program Specialist 3) to join our team! If you are passionate about suicide prevention, Veteran wellness, and turning awareness into meaningful action, this is an opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of Washinton's Service members, veterans, and their families (SMVF).

As the Suicide Prevention Program Specialist, you will help strengthen suicide prevention efforts across your assigned region in Washington by building community connections, providing prevention and awareness training, expanding access to resources, and promoting wellness and resilience. This is a high-tempo, very active role where no two days are the same. You will be spending much of your time traveling out in the community connecting with people, leading training, speaking to large groups, attending resource fairs, building partnerships, and helping communities strengthen their approach to suicide prevention.

If you are ready to make a lasting impact, apply today and join us in Serving Those Who Served.

Please note: The typical expected hours for this position are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. There is flexibility to manage schedule to complete work off-site. Occasional evening or weekend work is required. This position is expected to adjust the work schedule to meet the needs of the program. This position may be eligible for hybrid telework based on business needs, as approved by the appointing authority. The position will still require in-person presence.

• 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.

Here at the Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA), 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 youll do:

• Provide a hand-off for Service Members, Veterans, and their Families (SMVF) to community services and resources in assigned region.
• Assist with developing suicide prevention-related training and implementation of these trainings within assigned region.
• Deliver regional suicide awareness and prevention training programs.
• Support the use of online SMVF resources database and web-based applications in the community.
• Support Suicide Prevention Program Manager and Lead Suicide Prevention Peer Specialist in the administration of policies, procedures, practices, and existing and new program activities that involve and impact SMVF, staff, and community partners.
• Promote 988 Lifeline Emblem sales through the Department of Licensing.
• Coordinate with the Department of Licensing, firearms dealers, law enforcement, and other related entities to publicize and collect voluntary donations to WDVA and/or the Suicide Prevention Community-Based Grant Fund.
• Build and maintain relationships with regional community resources and personnel serving SMVF promoting wellness and addressing crisis.
• Encourage non-profit, for-profit, city, county, state, and federal organizations and agencies to submit applications be included in Suicide Prevention resource database and resource pages.
• Disseminate information and encourage the use of resources by SMVF in the community and those who serve SMVF.
• Communicate regularly with Lead Suicide Prevention Peer Specialist (or delegate) by continually reporting about program design and identified outcomes.
• Encourage non-profit, for-profit, city, county, state, and federal organizations and agencies to submit applications be included in Suicide Prevention resource database and resource pages.
• Conduct outreach visits in the community with SMVF, SMVF-related organizations, state, federal, city, and county officials and agencies, behavioral health treatment facilities and organizations, community partners, and other applicable groups or entities as directed by the Lead Suicide Prevention Peer Specialist (or delegate).
• Participate in community events, resource fairs, and other events/activities that support and engage SMVF
• Complete Position Description available upon request*

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelors degree in a related field such as psychology, social services, social work, social science, healthcare, or liberal arts/sciences from an accredited institution whose accreditation is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education (CHEA) or a foreign equivalent.

AND

• Two (2) years of experience providing services concerning varying suicide prevention training efforts and/or familiarity with ASSIST, AMSR, ZERO Suicide, and other suicide prevention models.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote), data management systems, and mobile application software (Teams, Apple/Google Maps, etc.).
• A combination of education and experience may be considered on a year-for-year basis. Experience must be relevant to the position.
• Must be able to read, write, speak and understand English to facilitate effective performance of job duties. This includes sufficient written and verbal communication in English, to facilitate effective performance of essential functions.
• Agency Required Competencies for all positions:
• The ability to take action to learn and grow.
• The ability to take action to meet the needs of others.

Preferred/Desired:

• Master's degree in a related field such as psychology, social services, social work, social science, healthcare, or liberal arts/sciences from an accredited institution whose accreditation is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, CHEA, or a foreign equivalent.
• Two (2) years of experience providing services to Veterans and their families in a human services environment related to mental health, behavioral health, traumatic brain injury, and/or similar functional area.
• Experience working with population seeking mental health services or supportive social services.
• Demonstrated ability to engage stakeholders, provide outreach, education and case management and deliver successful presentations to a wide variety of audiences.
• Proficient and knowledgeable in all laws and ethical guidelines related to suicide prevention and mental health services.
• Two (2) years of experience in program development; coordination and experience in budget management and/or contracting; experience with records/database management.
• Served in the armed forces, guard or reserves with combat experience.
• Three (3) years of experience working directly with Veterans and their family members or demonstrated competence with this population.
• Ability to work independently, yet collaboratively while considering the needs and styles of others.

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 applicants suitability and competence to perform in the position.
• Must be able to lift up to 35 lbs. and be capable of reaching a minimum of 36" using proper technique to stock shelves and access supplies. Employee must also be able to push or pull with sufficient strength and walk, sit, and bend in an unrestricted manner during the entire workday.
• Must maintain regular and reliable attendance and be willing to work as needed.
• Must successfully complete, within mandated timeframes, employee orientation and all other mandatory annual, in-service, and other required training.
• Must become familiar and comply with all DVA policies and procedures and Collective Bargaining Agreements as applicable.
• Must sign the confidentiality statement for all employees.
• Positions requiring travel must have a valid unrestricted drivers 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.
• Work will occur in the office and in the field. Field work typically includes no risks other than those commonly found in government environments. May experience distressed SMVF in crisis with mental health conditions and substance use disorders.

Supplemental Information

Check out this awesome video here 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. Please note, a letter of interest is required in order to be considered. Candidates who do not submit a letter of interest will not be referred to the Hiring Manager for this role.

2. A current resume detailing applicable experience and education.

Finalists will be asked to provide a list of at least three professional references with current telephone numbers.

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. 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

Do you possess a bachelor's degree in a related field such as Psychology, Social Services, Social Work, Social Science, Health Care, or Liberal Arts/Sciences from an accredited institution whose accreditation is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or a foreign equivalent.

• Yes, I attest I possess a bachelor's degree in a related field such as Psychology, Social Services, Social Work, Social Science, Health Care, or Liberal Arts/Sciences from an accredited institution whose accreditation is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or a foreign equivalent.
• Yes, I attest I have a combination of education and experience, relevant to the position which meets the required qualifications for this role, as listed in the position requirements.
• No

02

Do you have two years of experience providing services concerning varying suicide prevention training efforts and/or familiarity with ASSIST, AMSR, ZERO Suicide and other suicide prevention models etc.?

• Yes, I attest I possess two years of experience providing services concerning varying suicide prevention training efforts and/or familiarity with ASSIST, AMSR, ZERO Suicide and other suicide prevention models etc.
• No, I do not have this experience

03

This position is highly community based and requires frequent travel throughout the assigned region of eastern Washington, which ranges from Spokane to Ellensburg. Are you comfortable traveling regularly throughout the assigned region and spending most workdays out in the community?

• Yes, I am comfortable traveling regularly throughout the assigned region and spending most workdays out in the community.
• No, I am not comfortable traveling most days.

04

Please describe your experience working with or supporting Veterans, Service Members, or other at-risk communities.

05

You are attending a community event and a Veteran in crisis approaches you for help. Please describe how you would respond to this situation and the steps you would take.

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