Job Description

Posting number: 2026-06031

Department: Dept. of Social and Health Services

Division: DDA

Job classification: ATTENDANT COUNSELOR MANAGER

Posting type: Open & Promotional

Categories: Health Services, Social Services, Management, Human Services, Training, Allied Health, Health Care Support, Program Management, Rehabilitation Services

DSHS DDA Attendant Counselor Manager

Are you ready to lead a team that helps people with developmental disabilities live safely and independently in their homes? The Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) is seeking an Attendant Counselor Manager to join the State Operated Living Alternatives (SOLA) team in Spokane, WA. In this role, you will oversee the 24/7 operations of programs that empower individuals with developmental disabilities to thrive in their own homes and communities.

This role blends leadership, teamwork, and compassion. You’ll be present in client homes—coaching staff, ensuring safe and welcoming environments, and helping each client reach their goals. You’ll also work closely with families, health care providers, and case managers to make sure support plans are followed with care and dignity.

If you thrive on responsibility, enjoy mentoring others, and want to make homes healthier and lives more independent for people with developmental disabilities – we want to hear from you

Opportunities performed on-site at this work location at least three days a week may be eligible for an additional 5% premium pay in addition to the advertised salary.

Some of what you'll do

• Lead and support Attendant Counselors by setting goals and assigning daily work
• Interview, hire, train, and coach staff so they provide excellent care
• Monitor staff performance, give feedback, and take corrective action when needed
• Ensure staff follow support plans, agency policies, and state requirements
• Coordinate health care, medication, and specialized treatments for clients
• Keep client homes clean, safe, and person-centered
• Support clients with daily living skills like cooking, cleaning, bathing, and money management
• Review documentation, client records, and incident reports for accuracy and compliance
• Communicate clearly with families, guardians, and community partners
• Rotate in the standby schedule to ensure 24/7 support
• Step in to provide direct care when needed
• Represent the administration in meetings, trainings, and community events

Additional knowledge, skills, and abilities we are looking for:

• Staff leadership – Ability to train, supervise, and provide effective, timely feedback to staff while managing and prioritizing multiple urgent issues
• Policy knowledge – Comprehensive understanding of client care, agency policies, workplace practices, human resource protocols, and collective bargaining agreements
• Communication and collaboration – Strong skills in working with employees, clients, families, and the public, including addressing problem-solving and conflict resolution professionally
• Client care – Capability to work with clients who may have challenging behaviors, dual diagnoses, community protection concerns, or health issues, while meeting mandatory reporting requirements
• Technology skills – Proficiency in basic computer functions such as email, word processing, and internet use, along with the ability to write professional reports, programs, and plans
• Flexibility – Willingness to perform on-call or standby duties, lead teams effectively, and adapt to changing program needs

Who should apply?
High school graduation or GED and four years of experience working with people with developmental disabilities
OR
High school graduation or GED and four years of experience as an Attendant Counselor 1, equivalent or higher level state class

Questions? Please reach out to DSHS Recruiter and reference 06031.

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.

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 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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