DSHS ESH Registered Nurse 2

State of Washington$87K — $143K *
Healthcare
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Valid Washington State RN license or compact RN license.
  • 1-3 years of nursing experience in a psychiatric or behavioral health setting preferred.
  • Strong clinical assessment and evaluation skills.
  • Exceptional communication skills with patients and healthcare providers.
  • Capability to work under pressure and manage de-escalation effectively.
  • Understanding of trauma-informed care principles and cultural humility.

Responsibilities

  • Participate in interdisciplinary team planning and delivery of patient care.
  • Educate patients on social and functional skill development.
  • Monitor and de-escalate high-risk patient situations.
  • Manage psychiatric and medical emergencies as they arise.
  • Assess and chart significant changes in patient conditions.
  • Administer medications and develop care plans for patients.
  • Collaborate with team members to create supportive treatment environments.

Benefits

  • Flexible work opportunities including full-time, part-time, and on-call.
  • Shift differentials for evening and night shifts as well as weekends.
  • Potential additional premium pay for on-site work at least three days a week.
  • A collaborative work culture focused on equity and inclusion.
  • Opportunities for professional development in behavioral health care.
Full Job Description
Salary : $7,304.00 - $11,976.00 Monthly
Location : Spokane County - Medical Lake, WA
Job Type: Various Job Types
Job Number:
Department: Dept. of Social and Health Services
Division: BHHA
Opening Date: 05/01/2026
Closing Date: 5/14/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
Salary Information: The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step

Description

DSHS ESH - Registered Nurse 2
Eastern State Hospital (ESH) is hiring Registered Nurses! As part of our behavioral health team, you'll work alongside dedicated professionals who are committed to person-centered care, trauma-informed practices, and long-term recovery.

In addition to working with psychiatric patients within our Adult, Forensic and Geriatric units, we are seeking RN's with empathy, patience, and flexibility to work with our patients diagnosed with mental illness and intellectual disabilities. The Habilitative Mental Health (HMH) ward is a fast-paced environment with many de-escalation opportunities to assist those patients on their road to recovery. We can serve folks suffering a variety of diagnoses that can limit their adaptive, coping, and learning abilities.

Eastern State Hospital hosts both the Eastlake and Westlake campuses. We are a 375-bed in-patient psychiatric hospital serving adults and are accredited by the Joint Commission and certified by the federal centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

Some of what you'll do:
  • Participate as a member of an interdisciplinary team in the planning, delivery, and evaluation of patient care.
  • Educate patients' on social skills, functional skill development, and medications.
  • Monitor patients' behavior and if needed, de-escalate high-risk situations.
  • Participate in the management of psychiatric and medical emergencies.
  • Assess and evaluate patients who have behavioral health issues and chart significant changes in the patient's condition.
  • Administer medications and treatments.
  • Produce care plans and risk assessments for your patients.

Knowledge, skills, and abilities we are looking for:
  • Clinical judgment - You make sound decisions based on assessment findings and treatment goals.
  • Communication - You clearly share information with patients, peers, and health care providers to support effective care.
  • De-escalation skills - You respond calmly and professionally during high-stress or crisis situations.
  • Trauma-informed mindset - You recognize how trauma affects behavior and tailor your approach accordingly.
  • Cultural humility - You support equity and inclusion by acknowledging and respecting individual lived experiences.
  • Teamwork - You contribute to a collaborative and supportive treatment culture.

We are interested in applicants who meet the following qualifications:
  • Possess a valid Washington State Registered Nurse license or a compact RN license that allows practice in Washington State.

Additional information:
  • We are offering full-time, part-time, all shifts, and on-call opportunities.
  • On-Call employees are expected to work a minimum of 24 hours per week, all weekends and all holidays. We will also consider two 12 hour shifts per week depending on business needs.
  • Evening and Night shifts include a $1.50 per hour shift differential, $2.50 per hour shift premium and additional $4.00 per hour for hours worked Friday Midnight through Sunday Midnight.
  • 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.

Want to know more about Eastern State Hospital? Click on the video below to meet staff, take a virtual tour, and explore your career.
Questions?
Please reach out to DSHS Recruiter Vincent Hamilton at and reference job number #03575.
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 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 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.

Updated 01-07-2026
01

Please list your RN license number and state issued.
02

Please choose from the list below the employment type and shift(s) you are available to work. Note: Our typical shift periods include consecutive days off. Evening and night shifts include shift differential in addition to standard rate.
  • On Call Employment (must be available for three shifts per week, including weekends and holidays).
  • Part-Time Employment
  • Full-Time Employment
  • Day Shift (6:30 AM - 3:00 PM)
  • Evening Shift (2:30 PM - 11:00 PM)
  • Night Shift (10:30 PM - 7:00 AM)

03

If applicable, please describe any experience you have working with individuals who have behavioral health needs, mental illness, and/or intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Required Question

About State of Washington

State of Washington Careers

Joining the State of Washington's diverse team offers more than just a job; it opens opportunities to build and grow a career in an array of fields. State of Washington is renowned for its commitment to excellence and innovation in public service.

Explore Job Opportunities

State of Washington offers a variety of job opportunities that cater to a range of skills and interests. From environmental science to public health, the state provides roles that contribute significantly to the community and the environment. Each position at the State of Washington supports a culture of leadership and professional growth.

Experience Professional Growth

Career advancement is a cornerstone of employment with the State of Washington. With programs designed to foster leadership skills and professional development, employees are encouraged to ascend through the ranks. The State of Washington is committed to providing career pathways that help individuals achieve their professional goals.

Engage in Diversity Training and Innovation

The State of Washington places a high priority on creating an inclusive work environment. Diversity training is integral, ensuring all team members understand and appreciate the value of differences. Innovation is at the heart of the State of Washington, where new ideas and perspectives lead to effective solutions and services.

Benefits and Culture

Employees at the State of Washington enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that supports both their professional and personal lives. Health benefits, retirement plans, and wellness programs are just the beginning. The culture here is built on mutual respect, collaboration, and a commitment to excellence.

Internship Programs

For those starting their career journey, internship opportunities provide a gateway to full-time employment and a chance to develop valuable industry skills. Internships at the State of Washington are designed to give hands-on experience and insights into the workings of state government.

Join the Team

State of Washington is continuously hiring new talent. Interested candidates are encouraged to review open positions that match their skills and career interests. The hiring process is thorough, ensuring that both the candidate and the position are a perfect match.

Prepare for Your Interview

To help candidates succeed, State of Washington offers resources on how to effectively prepare for interviews. Tips on crafting a compelling resume and mastering interview techniques are available to ensure applicants present their best selves.

Networking and Career Events

Regular networking events and career fairs provide opportunities to connect with leaders in various fields and explore potential job openings. These events are ideal for sharing professional experiences, meeting potential mentors, and learning more about the State of Washington's mission and values.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with the latest news, job alerts, and career tips from the State of Washington by subscribing to the careers newsletter. Discover the exciting and rewarding opportunities that await at the State of Washington.

SEARCH STATE OF WASHINGTON JOBS

READ CAREERS BLOG

JOB ALERT EMAILS

Personalize your subscription to receive job alerts, latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Explore the rewarding career opportunities at the State of Washington today.
Learn more about State of Washington

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at State of Washington

More Healthcare Jobs

Find similar DSHS ESH Registered Nurse 2 jobs: