Tax Policy Specialist 3 (Non-legal)
State of Washington
Full-time
Remote
United States
$6,539 - $8,801 USD monthly
Trust & Safety
Description
This opportunity is open to current Washington State Department of Revenue employees only.
The Department of Revenue's (DOR) Legislation & Policy (L&P) division is seeking to hire a Tax Policy Specialist 3 (TPS 3) in Tumwater, WA. The selected candidate will support the department's mission by working with the Legislature and other stakeholders to establish tax policy through the enactment of state tax laws, by developing the department's legislative priorities, and by facilitating implementation of newly enacted state tax laws.Are you interested in being part of the exciting and challenging world of legislation and tax policy? Do you enjoy working on important issues having agency-wide and even statewide significance? If so, this is your opportunity to join a small, yet elite team of collaborative and innovative individuals who thrive in a fast-paced and demanding atmosphere.Candidate screening will begin as early as August 12, 2025, and the hiring authority may exercise the option to make a hiring decision at any time after. It will be to the applicant's advantage to submit materials as soon as possible.
We invite you to review the opportunity details below and forward this message to others you feel may be qualified.Duties
- As a member of this team, you will evaluate and influence state tax policy by providing timely analysis and feedback on complex legislation and tax policy issues for the Governor, Legislature, and other state agencies, and Department staff at all levels.
Typical functions of a Tax Policy Specialist include:- Researching, analyzing, and tracking proposed legislation and initiatives.
- Assisting in drafting legislation and amendments.
- Drafting briefings and other significant documents.
- Facilitating interdivisional teams tasked with the implementation of new legislation.
- Participating in meetings and studies with external and internal audiences on important tax concerns.
- Providing technical and policy advice.
- Leading development of tax policy issues.
- Working on interim projects between legislative sessions.
Qualifications
We are looking for a motivated professional with these competencies to support the Department's legislative program. The ideal candidate will possess the following knowledge, skills, and abilities:
Legislative Bill Analysis- Accurately interprets legislative intent and evaluates clarity, completeness, and policy implications of proposed bills.
- Identifies legal, administrative, and fiscal impacts of legislation and communicates findings effectively.
Organization and Political Awareness- Understands the political landscape and anticipates how legislative proposals affect the agency.
Written Communication- Writes clearly and concisely for diverse audiences, translating complex topics into accessible language.
- Structures documents logically to support decision-making and understanding.
Verbal Communication- Explains complex tax and policy issues clearly and persuasively in meetings and presentations.
- Adapts tone and delivery to audience needs and actively listens to ensure mutual understanding.
Interpersonal Skills- Builds trust and collaboration across teams and stakeholders, even in challenging situations.
- Demonstrates professionalism, tact, and a commitment to shared goals.
Planning, Organization, and Workload Management- Manages multiple priorities and deadlines efficiently, adjusting plans as needed.
- Leads projects and meetings with clear goals, timelines, and accountability.
Stress Tolerance and Decisiveness- Maintains composure and sound judgment under pressure.
- Makes timely, well-reasoned decisions in dynamic environments.
Project Planning- Sets clear objectives, timelines, and performance standards for projects.
- Coordinates resources and stakeholders to deliver results on time.
Development and Continual Learning- Proactively seeks opportunities to grow professionally and improve processes.
- Learns from feedback and adapts to new challenges.
Accountability- Takes ownership of work quality and timeliness.
- Meets expectations and communicates progress transparently.
Ethics and Professionalism- Acts with integrity, respects confidentiality, and upholds public trust.
- Adheres to agency policies and professional standards.
Preference may be granted to candidates who possess the following:A bachelor's degree in business or public administration, accounting, public finance or closely allied field AND four years of professional experience in tax program/policy analysis, tax administration, tax auditing, tax collection, or experience as a hearings examiner in a governmental agency. At least three years must be in tax program/policy analysis.
Note -- A master's degree or equivalent in a Ph.D. program in taxation, public administration, public finance, accounting, business administration, or closely allied field will substitute for two years of experience.
This position functions within a fast-paced, politically complex environment within which accuracy, timeliness, and communication are essential. Throughout our selection process, we will also be evaluating candidates for behavioral attributes and technical skills to succeed in this environment.
To be considered
Complete your online application in detail and attach the following:- A cover letter explaining how you meet the qualifications of this position.
- A resume, highlighting your work experience and education.
- At least three professional references with current telephone numbers.
*Note - Incomplete applications and applications received without requested attachments may be disqualified.*
To take advantage of Veteran's preference, please attach your DD-214, member 4 long form, or your NGB-22. Please blackout your social security number and date of birth before attaching.
Questions?Hello, my name is Lance, and I will be assisting with this announcement. As a 20-year Department of Revenue employee, I understand the importance of finding a rewarding career with a work-life balance. At Revenue, we pride ourselves in connecting talented individuals with opportunity and would like to answer any questions you have.
Please contact any part of the Staffing team at Jobs@dor.wa.gov or give me a call (360) 704-5725.Supplemental Information
- The Human Resources Division may use referrals from this recruitment to help fill future similar vacancies for six months.For current Department of Revenue employees and union members of the WPEA, current promotion rules will apply if selected.The Department of Revenue is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We embrace diversity and offer a respectful, inclusive culture for people with disabilities, as well as members of all protected groups and statuses. We encourage you to apply.
Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history will 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 position.
This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement between the Department of Revenue and the Washington Public Employees Association (WPEA).
If you need help during the application process, please call the Human Resources Office at 360-704-5731. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6388.