What are the responsibilities and job description for the DSHS DDA Licensed Practical Nurse 4 position at Washington State Department of Social and Health Services?
Description
Licensed Practical Nurse 4
The Developmental Disabilities Administration's (DDA) State-Operated Community Residential (SOCR) Programs has an opportunity for a Licensed Practical Nurse 4 to join our team in Pierce County.
As a Licensed Practical Nurse 4 (LPN 4), you won’t just be providing medical support—you’ll be leading teams, shaping care strategies, and advocating for individuals with developmental disabilities and complex medical needs. In this role, you’ll work to ensure clients receive exceptional nursing care, health oversight, and compassionate support. Your expertise will help create a stable, safe, and empowering environment where clients can thrive.
Please note: This position will work between two State Operated Living Alternatives (SOLA) offices - Pierce East SOLA and Children's SOLA.
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. Pierce County employees are eligible to receive an Orca Card for transportation needs.
See Why People Like You Chose Careers With DSHS
Some of what you will do:
Possession of a current Washington State license to practice as a Licensed Practical Nurse,
AND
one year of experience as a Licensed Practical Nurse.
Preferred Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities
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 an equity, anti-racism, and social justice commitment to your work with DSHS. We strive to create greater access and affirming representation of the communities we serve, 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.
Questi ons? Please contact Georgina.Pringle@dshs.wa.gov and reference job number #01246.
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.
E-Verify® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
Licensed Practical Nurse 4
The Developmental Disabilities Administration's (DDA) State-Operated Community Residential (SOCR) Programs has an opportunity for a Licensed Practical Nurse 4 to join our team in Pierce County.
As a Licensed Practical Nurse 4 (LPN 4), you won’t just be providing medical support—you’ll be leading teams, shaping care strategies, and advocating for individuals with developmental disabilities and complex medical needs. In this role, you’ll work to ensure clients receive exceptional nursing care, health oversight, and compassionate support. Your expertise will help create a stable, safe, and empowering environment where clients can thrive.
Please note: This position will work between two State Operated Living Alternatives (SOLA) offices - Pierce East SOLA and Children's SOLA.
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. Pierce County employees are eligible to receive an Orca Card for transportation needs.
See Why People Like You Chose Careers With DSHS
Some of what you will do:
- Be a leader in care: Guide and support the SOLA team, ensuring quality nursing care is delivered according to individualized treatment plans.
- Stay ahead of the curve: Monitor client health, quickly assess changes in condition, and communicate with the SOLA management team and medical providers.
- Deliver hands-on care: Administer medications and treatments as needed, ensuring clients receive the best possible support.
- Educate and empower: Teach clients and staff how to manage specific health conditions, helping them gain confidence in their care.
- Be an advocate in the community: Accompany clients and staff to medical appointments and community outings, ensuring seamless care beyond the facility.
- Keep operations running smoothly: Maintain accurate documentation, manage medication orders, and oversee medical supply inventory.
- Work as a team player: Collaborate with the contracted RN delegator to safeguard client well-being and medical needs.
- Support life transitions: Participate in client transition meetings, ensuring a smooth and supportive move into the SOLA program.
Possession of a current Washington State license to practice as a Licensed Practical Nurse,
AND
one year of experience as a Licensed Practical Nurse.
Preferred Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities
- A passion for person-centered care and a commitment to client well-being.
- Ability to provide accurate and clear communication in a calm, non-threatening manner.
- Strong time management and organizational skills.
- Desire to coach and educate others.
- Exceptional assessment and clinical knowledge.
- Familiarity with state regulations and compliance standards for community residential programs.
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 an equity, anti-racism, and social justice commitment to your work with DSHS. We strive to create greater access and affirming representation of the communities we serve, 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.
Questi ons? Please contact Georgina.Pringle@dshs.wa.gov and reference job number #01246.
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.
E-Verify® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
