Program Specialist 5

Description

Do you enjoy being a subject matter expert who can be relied upon to provide accurate information and guidance? Would you thrive in a position of ongoing learning where your efforts and expertise guide help others navigate complex rules and regulations that impact thousands of public employees across Washington State? If you excel at analyzing and sharing information, building relationships, and supporting others with confidence and care, then the role Program Specialist 5 at the Department of Retirement Systems may be the ideal next step for you!

Duties

Applicants who apply by the end of the day on October 19, will get first consideration.

The hiring manager reserves the right to make a hiring decision at any time during the recruitment process.

The Opportunity :

We are searching for a skilled Program Specialist to administer, direct and oversee all program activities related to the Old Age Survivors Insurance (OASI) Program for public employers in Washington.

As the Program Specialist, you will advise and direct public employers on all aspects of the OASI program and serve as the liaison between public employers, the Social Security Administration (SSA), and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for coverage-related issues and questions.

Some of what you'll do includes :

• Making eligibility determinations on social security coverage for specific organizations, based on Section 218 of the Social Security Act, Internal Revenue Code, and DRS rules and regulations.
• Traveling, sometimes overnight, in the state to deliver presentations, facilitate training, conduct referendums, and support key position responsibilities.
• Managing the OASI Employer Operations computer system, including overseeing the imaging of employer records and correspondence, and coordinating system invoicing and accounts receivable for participating employers.
• Representing the agency on external employer committees and projects in support of information sharing and relationship building with employers.
• Investigating, researching and resolving highly complex reporting and system interface problems, including sensitive and / or urgent issues.
• Working with the agency's systems development team to resolve highly complex system problems. Ensures the employer's point of view is represented when system changes affect business operations.
• Managing the update of employer forms and publications, ensuring input from employers and DRS has been considered.
• Ensuring updates to online employer information is posted to the DRS internet in a timely manner.

NOTE : After effectively demonstrating the ability to successfully perform work independently, you may be eligible to telework on a full-time basis, at the discretion of the Appointing Authority and with a telework agreement in place. The ability to work remotely is dependent on the nature of the tasks and projects assigned and the presence of a remote work environment that is safe and has an appropriate level of reliable connectivity. You must live within a reasonable commuting distance (less than 50 straight-line miles) to the DRS building in Tumwater, WA, and must be willing and able to adjust your telework schedule, whenever necessary, to complete work assignments, attend mandatory meetings, trainings, etc., at the DRS facility.

Qualifications

What we're looking for (required qualifications) :

This experience is typically gained from two (2) years of professional experience.

An associates degree or higher in technical communication or technical writing certification may substitute for up to one year of experience;

This experience is typically gained from two (2) years of professional experience. A bachelor's degree or higher in business administration, public administration, organizational development, or closely related field may substitute for the two years of experience;

Experience can be gained through various combinations of professional employment and volunteer / personal experience. Experience may be concurrent.

In addition to the above, you must have the following :

Interpersonal Savvy

Relates well to all kinds of people both inside and outside the organization. Develops and maintains effective working relationships that encourage and support collaboration, knowledge sharing, communication, and teamwork. Engages and inspires others, treats people with courtesy, sensitivity, and respect, exemplifying professionalism, tact, and empathy.

Consultation

Employs expertise, credibility, and effective partnering to help customers and / or peers identify, evaluate, and resolve complex or sensitive issues and problems. Demonstrates willingness and initiative in partnering with peers and customers in order to achieve desired outcomes.

Communication

Effectively conveys information in writing and through the spoken word, using language that is appropriate to both the complexity of the topic and the knowledge and understanding of the audience. Sees communication as a vital component of high performing teams.

Judgment

Displays balanced thinking that combines data-based analysis, experience, and perspective while also considering decision impacts. Effectively weighs alternatives and makes decision that incorporate facts and other relevant information.

Problem Solving

Analyzes problem to identify root cause(s). Evaluates possible courses of action, uses reason, logic, and creativity to reach conclusions. Develops timely, effective solutions that take into consideration alternatives, risks, and consequences in relation to organizational goals, resources, and constraints.

Commitment to Diversity

Recognizes the value of diversity. Helps create an environment that embraces and supports diversity, equity and inclusion.

Supplemental Information

Be sure to read this entire section - We promise, it'll be helpful!

How to Apply : Interested applicants who meet the qualifications and competencies in this announcement are encouraged to apply.

(Applications without these required attachments will not be accepted).

A cover letter clearly describing how your knowledge, skills and abilities align with the job duties and qualifications of this position.

References, Personnel File Review, and Background Checks

Work Authorization

Why Work for DRS? At DRS, we are one team. We administer eight public retirement systems, 15 retirement plans, and the Deferred Compensation Program, and we serve over 930,000 current and former public employees in Washington. Our customers include fire fighters, teachers and school employees, state and local government employees, and public safety and law enforcement officers.

Regardless of what our specific duties may be, we are all dedicated to one purpose : ensuring our members have the information, tools, expertise and services that ensure they receive the retirement benefits earned while in public service. We foster a diverse and inclusive environment where team members are fully engaged and supported in meeting (and exceeding) our customers' expectations. All DRS leaders are focused on providing the coaching, mentoring, resources and support that team members need to be successful.

DRS offers a generous benefits package that includes membership in the Public Employees Retirement System; health , dental and vision coverage and participation in the Deferred Compensation Program. Also, as a public service employee you may also be eligible for student loan forgiveness . (See the Benefits tab at the top of this post for more information).

Other perks include :

Veteran's Preference : Applicants wishing to claim Veteran's Preference should attach a copy of their DD214 (Member 4 copy), NGB 22, or signed verification of service letter from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs to their application. Please remove or redact any personally identifiable information such as social security numbers and year of birth. For additional information on Veteran's Preference and guidance on how to determine if you are eligible, click here.

The Washington State Department of Retirement Systems is an equal opportunity employer supporting diversity, equity and inclusion. DRS does not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, race, creed, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran or military status, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability.

If you need assistance with the online application or have questions regarding the recruitment, please contact Human Resource office at drs.recruitment@drs.wa.gov

Persons of disability needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this announcement in an alternate format, may call the Human Resources Office at (360) 664-7309 or TTY Relay Service at 711.

Come join the DRS team!