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$25

How much do dshs entry level jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for dshs entry level in the United States is $19.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $20.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Dshs Entry Level vs Dshs Social Service Specialist?

AspectDshs Entry LevelDshs Social Service Specialist
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require a relevant certificationBachelor's degree in social work, psychology, or related field; licensure may be preferred
Work EnvironmentOffice settings, community agencies, or client homesOffice-based with field visits, community settings, and client interactions
Employer & Industry UsageState health and human services departments, social service agencies

In summary, Dshs Entry Level positions typically require minimal formal credentials and focus on basic support tasks, while Dshs Social Service Specialists require a bachelor's degree and involve more complex case management and client interaction. Both roles are essential in state social services but differ in qualifications and responsibilities.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level employees at DSHS, and how can new hires best prepare for them?

Entry-level employees at DSHS often encounter challenges such as managing a high volume of caseloads, learning complex policies and procedures, and adapting to the emotional demands of serving vulnerable populations. To prepare, new hires should focus on developing strong organizational skills, seek out training opportunities, and actively communicate with their supervisors and colleagues for guidance. Building resilience and a support network within the team can also help employees manage stress and continue to provide high-quality service.

What is a DSHS entry level job?

DSHS entry level jobs are positions within the Department of Social and Health Services that typically require minimal prior experience and are ideal for individuals starting their careers in social services or state government. These roles may include job titles such as Office Assistant, Support Enforcement Technician, or Social Service Aide. Responsibilities often involve administrative support, assisting clients with services, data entry, and other foundational tasks that support the agency’s mission to provide social and health services. Entry level roles often provide on-the-job training and opportunities for advancement within DSHS.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a DSHS entry level employee?

To thrive as a DSHS Entry Level employee, you generally need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic administrative skills, and familiarity with customer service practices. Experience with office software like Microsoft Office Suite and knowledge of case management systems or databases are commonly required. Strong communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills help you interact effectively with clients and support team operations. These abilities are crucial for providing essential services efficiently and ensuring client needs are met within the Department of Social and Health Services.
What cities are hiring for Dshs Entry Level jobs? Cities with the most Dshs Entry Level job openings:
What states have the most Dshs Entry Level jobs? States with the most job openings for Dshs Entry Level jobs include:
Dshs Entry Level jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dshs Entry Level job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,900 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

DSHS WSH Occupational Therapist 1

State of Washington

Lakewood, WA • On-site

$43.75 - $57.75/hr

Other

Medical, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 16 days ago

State Of Washington rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 83 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 50 rated states

Job description

Entry-Level Mental And Behavioral Health Occupational Therapists

We have exciting opportunities for entry-level mental and behavioral health occupational therapists (OTs) to join our team at Western State Hospital. This is an ideal opportunity for OTs to expand their experience in providing occupational therapy and active treatment services to a population of patients with complex needs. You'll thrive and work to create new approaches for treatment. Full-time opportunities are available. Pierce County employees are eligible to receive an Orca Card for transportation needs. Opportunities performed on-site at this work location are eligible for an additional 5% premium pay in addition to the advertised salary.

Some of what you'll do:

  • Collaborates with patients and an interdisciplinary team to discuss treatment goals and implementation, monitors change and progress.
  • Evaluates and treats patients with a variety of mental and behavioral health diagnoses to achieve maximum function.
  • Assesses and provides treatment using OT evidence-based practice to patients in groups and/or 1:1s as needed.
  • Completes cognitive OT assessments as needed.
  • Reports clinical data in both written and oral form following policies and procedures.
  • Updates treatment plans in a timely manner.
  • Maintains service-related records; adheres to documentation expectations.
  • Supervises occupational therapy assistant(s).
  • Contributes to continuous quality improvement.
  • Performs related duties as required.

What we're looking for:

  • Desire to work with patients who have mental and behavioral health diagnoses.
  • Ability to handle stressful and sometimes challenging situations.
  • Skill in documentation.
  • Ability to comprehend, educate others, and grade treatments according to a patient's strengths and challenges.
  • Knowledge of various treatment types and modalities using OT evidence-based practice.

Who should apply? Professionals who have completed an accredited occupational therapy program and who successfully completed the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) examination and are licensed to practice OT in Washington State. Recent graduates are encouraged to apply.

Enjoy a variety of perks and look forward to each day on the job:

  • Uniquely, we're not for profit and not driven by production, allowing our OTs the ability to focus on developing treatment approaches that emphasize patient care.
  • Clinical autonomy and encouragement from leadership inspire our OTs to be creative and innovative in developing treatment and intervention strategies.
  • Experience a variety of therapeutic areas where you can excel including cognitive evaluations and psychosocial group and individual treatment.
  • Team collaboration among OT practitioners (OTPs) and a variety of healthcare professionals supports an environment of continuous growth and professional development.
  • Rapport and treatment built by our OTPs for patients that are impactful and meaningful.
  • You'll quickly appreciate the sense of community and the interaction with staff and patients.
  • Retirement and benefits are ideal—start a long-term career that supports a healthy work-life balance.

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? Please get in touch with Chris.Pulley@dshs.wa.gov or by phone at (360)916-1856 and reference #00433.

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About State of Washington

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Washington is not a traditional company, but a governmental organization that is tasked with managing the various state-run services and enterprises in Washington. Headquartered in Seattle, Washington, USA, the organization is responsible for the overall administration of the state's agencies and public services. Since the admission of Washington into the Union on November 11, 1890, the state government has aimed to provide a high quality of life for its residents through effective and efficient public services.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Seattle, WA, US

Year founded

1889

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