Behavioral Health Specialist (TWB) - Public Defender's Office

Behavioral Health Specialist (TWB) - Public Defenders Office

Salary

$32.41 - $46.74 Hourly

Location

Public Defenders Building - 215 N Commercial St, Bellingham, WA 98225

Job Type

Full-Time

Job Number

B050*420 TWB 1026 External

Department

Public Defenders Office

Opening Date

10/22/2026

Closing Date

11/1/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

Salary

DOQ

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Summary

Whatcom County Public Defenders Office is seeking an experienced professional to fill a grant-funded Temporary-With-Benefits Behavioral Health Specialist position. This position works with attorneys to identify defendants who would benefit from screening, consultation, support and referral to appropriate behavioral health services. The position will assist defendants to engage with services and will serve as liaison with community treatment providers.

Funding for this position runs through June 30, 2027. Ongoing funding is subject to grant renewal.

Key job duties include:

• Screening clients for mental illness, substance use disorders, potential risk of harm and risk factors.
• Works with attorneys to create strategies that optimize defendants ability to comply with all legal requirements and court orders. Consults with attorneys regarding clinical assessments/opinions, interpret records and to help arrange expert evaluations of clients when indicated.
• Testify in court.
• Develop alternative sentencing plans that may include treatment, supervision, residential placement, medication management, case management services, housing, vocational services, and transportation.

Supervisor: Chief Deputy Public Defender

Hours of Work: Monday to Friday, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

For more information, please review the job descriptions:

• Behavioral Health Specialist

• Behavioral Health Specialist - PD.

Full Salary Range: $32.41 - $46.74 (MCBA- Range 160.0)

Hiring rate depends on qualifications. Hiring rate typically is limited to entry to mid of the posted salary range, subject to required approvals. This position receives annual pay increases to the next step in the associated salary range (apx. 3.8%) subject to satisfactory performance, in addition to any negotiated Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA).

We are required by State Law to list the full salary range. As a public entity and in a union-covered position, we are required to make pay decisions based on experience, qualifications, and equity with other employees.

Qualifications

• Requires a Bachelor's degree in social work, counseling or a closely related field

• 3 years of professional experience including interviewing, assessing and preparing client reports and dealing with a variety of client issues such as chronic mental illness or physical, sexual, alcohol and drug abuse.

• Master's degree preferred.

• State licensure as a Social Worker or Mental Health Counselor preferred.

• Experience working within the criminal justice system desired.

• Driving record that meets County standards

• Possess a valid drivers license at time of hire and throughout employment

• Background check must meet County criteria

At its sole discretion, Whatcom County may consider combinations of education, experience, certifications, and training in lieu of specifically required qualifications contained herein.

Distinguish yourself in public service and make a commitment to our future.

Whatcom County, WA is truly special and a great place to call home!

Supplemental Information

Whatcom County offers excellent benefits at no cost to employees, including:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage for employees AND their family
• Generous paid leave provisions, including vacation, sick leave, and 13 paid holidays per year
• Eligibility for a lifetime pension through the Washington State Public Employees Retirement System (PERS), with joint contributions required from the employee and the County
• $50,000 Life Insurance coverage for employees
• Option to invest in a 457 Deferred Compensation Retirement Plan
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) available for annual health care and/or dependent care expenses
• Voluntary Term Life Insurance and Personal Accident Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Additional benefit information

Whatcom County offers excellent benefits at no cost to employees, including:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage for employees AND their family
• Generous paid leave provisions, including vacation, sick leave, and 13 paid holidays per year
• Eligibility for a lifetime pension through the Washington State Public Employees Retirement System (PERS), with joint contributions required from the employee and the County
• $50,000 Life Insurance coverage for employees
• Option to invest in a 457 Deferred Compensation Retirement Plan
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) available for annual health care and/or dependent care expenses
• Voluntary Term Life Insurance and Personal Accident Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Additional benefit information

01

Please check which of the following qualifications you meet:

• Bachelors degree in social work, counseling or a closely related field. .
• 3 years of professional experience including interviewing, assessing and preparing client reports and dealing with a variety of client issues such as chronic mental illness or physical, sexual, alcohol and drug abuse.
• A valid WA drivers license.
• I do not meet any of these qualifications.

02

Please describe your experience of working within the criminal justice system and dealing with client issues.

Required Question

Employer Whatcom County

Address 311 Grand Ave, Suite 107

Bellingham, Washington, 98225

Phone (360) 778-5300

Website https://www.whatcomcounty.us/1675/Current-Job-Openings