Demo

DSHS BHHA Director of Security

Washington State Department of Social and Health Services
Lakewood, WA Full Time
POSTED ON 7/11/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 8/9/2026
Description

The Department of Social and Health Services Behavioral Health and Habilitation Administration at Western State Hospital is seeking a proactive and collaborative Civil Center Director of Security to provide leadership in enhancing hospital-wide security and safety operations at Western State Hospital (WSH) Civil Center. You will report directly to the Civil Center Chief Operating Officer.

You will be responsible for facility security, assessing and managing emergencies, and ensuring staff respond in accordance with established policies. Excellent communication skills coupled with a transformational leadership style will ensure your success in this role.

In an environment where safety and security is critical, we are seeking an expert in this field to build relationships and foster a commitment at all levels to initiate ideas that improve our processes, services, and performance related to safety and security. This is your opportunity to use your knowledge to be part of our mission not only for the people we serve but the staff we employ.

Some Of What You’ll Do

  • Learn and lead the security organization inside of a hospital.
  • Manage the security needs for the Civil Center of WSH and the Communications / Switchboard Center for both the Civil Center and the Gage Center.
  • Establish and administer security systems and procedures.
  • Manage and direct the day-to-day operations of the security department.
  • Ensure adequate staffing within the security department.
  • Manage the security organization budget.
  • Develop a strong leadership team inside the security organization.
  • Review and update security policies and manage the Standard Operating Procedures
  • Provide supervision and leadership to security supervisors.
  • Oversee all aspects of on-the-job training program for security staff
  • Foster a collaborative team environment.
  • Manage security programs and emergency response services.
  • Establish a baseline and annual update of compliance and assessment.
  • Provide consultation to clinical management on the physical security of WSH.
  • Serve as a member on a variety of committees.

.

Who Should Apply

  • A bachelor's degree in public administration, business administration, criminal justice, risk management, or closely allied field.
  • At least five years of experience in supervisory level security work, law enforcement, or similar work in the military. At least two years of experience must be in a leadership position related to security or law enforcement.

Or,

  • Equivalent relevant professional experience.

Preferred skills and abilities

  • Knowledge and competence of violence escalation cycle, de-escalation, and physical intervention techniques in mitigating behavior crisis.
  • Emergency management or incident management experience is preferred.
  • Knowledge of security systems in a hospital environment
  • Knowledge of safety and security laws, rules and regulations
  • Ability to formulate, develop, implement and supervise a multi-scale security program
  • CHPA certification (Certified Healthcare Protection Administrator)
  • Familiarity with NFPA, OSHA and CMS codes and guidelines

Complete applications include the following

  • A cover letter specifically addressing the qualifications listed in this job announcement and demonstrating what makes you a competitive applicant
  • A current chronological resume

The Department of Social and Health Services’ (DSHS) vision that people find human services to shape their own lives requires that we come together with a sense of belonging, common purpose, shared values, and meaningful work. It is crucial to our agency’s vision that you bring a fairness, access, and social justice commitment to your work with DSHS. We strive to support all Washingtonians, including Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, people with physical, behavioral health, and intellectual disabilities, elders, LGBTQIA individuals, immigrants and refugees, and families building financial security.

Questions?

Feel free to contact Chris Pulley at chris.pulley@dshs.wa.gov and reference job number 05335.

Supplemental Information

Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history may be conducted. 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 job. This announcement may be used to fill multiple vacancies. Employees driving on state business must have a valid driver's license. Employees driving a privately owned vehicle on state business must have liability insurance on the privately owned vehicle

Washington State Department of Social and Health Services is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in any area of employment, its programs or services on the basis of age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity/expression, marital status, race, creed, color, national origin, religion or beliefs, political affiliation, military status, honorably discharged veteran, Vietnam Era, recently separated or other protect­ed veteran status, the presence of any sensory, mental, physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability, equal pay or genetic information. Persons requiring accommodation in the application process or this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the Recruiter at (360) 725-5810. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384.

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