Overview

We invite you to join our professional team!

The Department of State Hospitals-Atascadero is a secure public sector hospital providing inpatient forensic services for mentally ill adult males who are court committed throughout the State of California.

The Native American Spiritual Leader (Safety) will be directed by the Program Assistant in the Recovery and Mall Services Department at the Department of State Hospitals – Atascadero (ASH). The incumbent will be responsible for the following duties but not limited to:

  • Coordinates and conducts quality Native American spiritual ceremonies, including drum, revitalization ceremonies; oral traditions, cultural studies and other spiritual rites as relevant to the patients at DSH-Atascadero.
  • Applies and demonstrates knowledge of correct methods in Therapeutic Strategies and Interventions (TSI).
  • Assist in the maintenance of a safe and secure environment through response to physical assaults, escape attempts or other major patient disturbance, and assist in the management of the conduct of the patients.
  • Work cooperatively with the other Chaplains.
  • Perform administrative and institutional duties, following policy and procedures necessary to safely provide spiritual services and oversee the Native American Sweat Grounds.
  • Order necessary supplies to provide quality Native American Spiritual services.
  • Support the hospital’s Relationship Security Program.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Currently recognized as a spiritual leader and in good standing with his/her Native American Tribe, Nation, Band or Rancheria. (All candidates must attach to their application a letter of certification of good standing issued by his/her Native American Tribe, Nation, Band or Rancheria.) and Experience: Two years of experience as a recognized Native American spiritual leader practicing in a setting recognized by his/her Native American Tribe, Nation, Band or Rancheria.

Salary: $5,743 – $7,541/month

Benefits of working for the Department of State Hospitals-Atascadero:
• Generous pension-style CalPERS Safety retirement benefits
• Optional 401k and 457b plans available through Savings Plus
• Excellent medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage for employee and dependents
• Paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave
• Team oriented, collegial working environment
• Vanpool/carpool incentives
• Hiring relocation incentives:
o Potential onsite housing for Permanent/Full-Time Staff
o Reimbursement for relocation expenses is available up to $10,000 pursuant to operational needs and fund availability.

The application is a three-step process.

1) The first step is creating a CalCareers account which is the official website for State of California jobs.
2) The second step is taking the eligibility examination (specific to Native American Spiritual Leader NASL) which is required to apply for many state civil service roles.
3) The last step is submitting an application and required documents to the NASL vacancy. The application template is located within the CalCareers account.

We encourage you to reach out to our team for guidance and support. We are happy to assist with any questions. ASHRecruitment@dsh.ca.gov or (805) 468-3660.

Tagged as: revitalization ceremony, spiritual ceremony, spiritual services

About Department of State Hospitals-Atascadero

Located in Atascadero, California the coastal heartland known as San Luis Obispo County, which is midway between San Francisco and Los Angeles, The California Department of State Hospitals – Atascadero is a treatment facility that serves the entire state in a forensic setting.  The region encompasses a rapidly growing wine industry, agricultural lands, ranches, and a carefully preserved rural quality.  Opened in 1954, the Department of State Hospitals – Atascadero recognizes that mental health recovery is most effectively achieved in an environment that fosters creative problem-solving, innovation, and mutual respect within a dynamic therapeutic milieu. Treatment is designed collaboratively by a multi-disciplinary team.

DSH-Atascadero is dedicated to creating a therapeutic environment that supports our patients' treatment progress and potential reintegration into the community. Providing vocational training, educational courses such as GED preparation, substance abuse programs, and both group and individual therapy sessions. Additionally, offering opportunities for participation in art, sports, music, meditation, religious, and social activities.