About the Department

Would you thrive in a role focused on guiding the Department of Retirement Systems (DRS) as we continue to protect the privacy of our members’ information and sustain their hard-earned trust? Would you enjoy serving as the privacy subject matter expert focused on elevating agency awareness of privacy best practices? And, is working in a cooperative culture of continuous improvement, learning, and work-life balance important to you? If your answer is Yes, the role as the Privacy Program Specialist could be the perfect opportunity for you!

Position Duties

The Opportunity: 
The Department of Retirement Systems has an exciting opportunity for you to be our Privacy Program Specialist. Depending on your experience, you may be hired as a Program Specialist 4 or as a Program Specialist 3 (in-training). If hired as a Program Specialist 3 In-Training, you will be required to successfully complete a 12-month training plan to promote to the goal class of Program Specialist 4. The in-training is intended to provide an opportunity to gain the required experience on the job as part of a formal “in-training” plan.

Reporting to the Risk Management Director, the Privacy Program Specialist will help shape the agency’s privacy program. In this collaborative role you will be responsible for furthering the goals, maturation, and management of the agency’s organization-wide privacy program in alignment with the WaTech Office of Privacy and Data Protection (OPDP) Privacy Framework.

• Program Specialist 3: $59,760 - $80,496 annually
• Program Specialist 4: $64,512 - $86,668 annually
  
  

• Administering and directing the agency’s privacy program, ensuring alignment with WaTech OPDP’s Privacy Policy. 
• Partnering with DRS divisions to assess and evaluate the current agency privacy risks and mitigation practices with special attention to systems that contain personally identifiable information (PII). 
• Applying knowledge gained from internal assessments to produce an organization-wide self-assessment which will be updated annually.
• Designing and delivering annual privacy training and awareness materials to strengthen agency-wide understanding of privacy risks.
• Leading required OPDP Privacy Threat Assessments (PTA) and/or Privacy Impact Analysis (PIA).
• Facilitating the ongoing inventory of sensitive information and evaluating third-party data sharing practices in partnership with IT, Legal, and the contracting unit.  
• Reviewing new or updated Data Sharing Agreements (DSAs) for consistency with privacy laws and principles and making recommendations. 
• As a backup to the Fraud Prevention Analyst, supporting customer account research and fraud analysis activities, and related coordination with Division Business Units. 

Telework Details:  After successful completion of the review period and effectively demonstrating the ability to perform work independently, you may be eligible to telework up to two (2) days per week, 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 to adjust your telework schedule to attend mandatory meetings, trainings, etc., at the DRS facility.

Minimum Qualifications

What we’re looking for (required qualifications): Experience for qualifications can be gained through various combinations of professional employment, education, and volunteer/personal experience. 

Required Qualifications for Program Specialist 3 - In Training 
 Demonstrated proficiency and proven experience in the following:

• Demonstrated experience conducting privacy impact assessments, updating privacy policies, influencing decisions about managing and protecting confidential information, and responding to privacy concerns. Similar work in a privacy adjacent program or area may also qualify. Examples of privacy adjacent work may include but are not limited to: managing public records requests, risk management, or fraud prevention.

Required Qualifications for Program Specialist 4 

In addition to the experience required at the Program Specialist 3 level (above), qualified candidates should also demonstrate experience in program development, including:

• Proactively identifying program needs and producing clear written materials (e.g. SOPs, templates, procedures, training plans etc.);
• Gathering information through methods such as surveys, interviews, and/or document/process review, and analyzing that data to identify risks or gaps in controls across an organization’s privacy (or privacy adjacent) program (beyond a single initiative or system);
• Making data-driven recommendations to mature program goals; and
• Delivering training to support the program and increase agency awareness.

Both the Program Specialist 3 and Program Specialist 4 qualifications listed above are typically gained from a minimum of three (3) years of full-time professional experience. Experience can be concurrent. 

In addition, all qualified candidates should have:

• Demonstrated experience and proficiency in the use of Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, (version 2016 or newer), and;
• Demonstrated proficiency in the following competency areas: 

Analysis - Studies and reviews documents and information closely; readily identifies information that is not pertinent and understands when additional or verifying data is needed. Uses data and information in a clear and rational thought process to assess and understand issues, evaluate options, form accurate conclusions, and make recommendations.

Customer Focus - Dedicated to meeting the expectations and requirements of customers. Partners to deliver high quality services and products. Establishes and maintains effective customer relationships. Committed to continuous improvement and always acts with the customer in mind.

Problem Solving - Analyzes problem to identify the 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.

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.

Teaching and Training - Effectively communicates information for the purpose of having others learn, understand, and apply specific principles, techniques, or information. Accurately assesses the training needs of individuals, identifying both strengths and areas to be developed.

Meeting the Needs of Others - Demonstrates empathy, flexibility, and responsiveness when interacting with customers, colleagues, and community members. Understands that others have varied needs and perspectives and adapts communication and actions accordingly. Builds relationships and collaborates to increase access, opportunity, and positive outcomes for all. Balances and considers all parties’ needs when developing solutions, ensuring equity, respect, and service excellence in every interaction.

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

Dependability - Shows commitment, dedication, and accountability in work. Works effectively and fulfills commitments made to customers, peers, and team members. Is reliable in punctuality and attendance; can be counted on to get things done.  

Learning and Growth - Demonstrates a growth mindset by actively seeking opportunities to learn, improve, and expand capabilities. Displays curiosity about new ideas and perspectives and an openness to innovation, change, and feedback. Takes responsibility for personal learning by identifying and communicating needs and challenges, and applying new knowledge to navigate systems, tools, and processes. Reflects on experiences to identify strengths and areas for improvement, using learning to make government programs and processes more efficient and effective in serving the people of Washington. 

Proven experience maintaining and maturing an organization-wide government privacy program and/or advising on agency privacy practices and recommending improvement opportunities is highly desired. 

Other Qualifications

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. 

• To be considered for this position, please be sure to attach the following to your online application: 
  1. A cover letter clearly describing how your knowledge, skills and abilities align with the job duties and qualifications of this position. Applications without a cover letter will not be considered.
  2. A chronological resume outlining your experience to-date. Please keep in mind that professional or verifiable volunteer experience may be relevant.  
• Be sure to complete all sections of the on-line application and answer all supplemental questions. The work history section of the on-line application should be completed fully. Application fields that say "see resume/attachment" will not be considered. Only those applicants whose background and experience most closely match the qualifications and competencies of this position will be considered for this opportunity.

References, Personnel File Review, and Background Checks

• DRS requires at least two professional references including a professional reference from your current or most recent supervisor.
• If you are a current or recent state employee, we will also review your personnel file as part of our selection process;
• A job offer is contingent upon completion of a background check that includes a criminal record review.

Work Authorization

• Candidates who are offered a job with DRS must possess work authorization that does not require sponsorship by the employer for a visa now or in the future;
• DRS complies with the employment eligibility verification requirements of the federal employment eligibility verification form, I-9. The selected candidate must be able to provide proof of identity and eligibility to work in the United States consistent with the requirements of that form on the first day of employment.
• DRS does not use E-Verify; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM-Optional Practice Training (OPT). For information, please visit www.uscis.gov.
• Persons legally authorized to work in the U.S. under federal law, including Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals recipients, are eligible for employment unless prohibited by other state or federal law.

Certified Candidate Pool

• This recruitment may be used to fill future similar vacancies for up to sixty (60) days.

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: 

• Flexible work schedules
• Infants at Work Program
• Tuition reimbursement
• Opportunities for professional growth
• Access to LinkedIn Learning
• Commitment to team member safety and wellness
• Community involvement and charitable giving opportunities
• Commute Trip Reduction Program
• Free Parking & and EV Chargers available
  
  

Benefits

More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.

We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.

Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.

Note:  If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits. 

Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.

Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.

To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.

Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.

Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.

The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.

Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS).  New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs.  For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.

Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP).  This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.

Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Holidays 
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.

Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.

Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday. 

Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.

Sick Leave 
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave. 

Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.

Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.

Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

As provided in WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.  

Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.

Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.

Bereavement Leave 
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.

Additional Leave
Leave Sharing
Parental Leave
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 01-07-2026

Supplemental Questions

01

You are welcome to include the name and pronoun you would like to be referred to in your materials and we will honor this as you interact with our organization.

02

Please share what about this position excites you the most.

03

Please review the minimum qualifications for this role and select the answer that best describes your experience.

• I meet the minimum qualifications for the Program Specialist 3 - In Training role.
• I meet the minimum qualifications for the Program Specialist 4 role.
• I do not meet the minimum qualifications for either role.

04

If you indicated in the question above that you meet the qualifications for either the Program Specialist 3 or 4 role, please briefly let us know if your qualifying experience is directly related to a privacy program OR if you gained this experience in a privacy adjacent program/area. If your experience is privacy adjacent, please describe your experience and how you feel it will benefit you in this role.

05

Please briefly tell us about any experience you have in these program development areas. Program development is not required for the in-training role, but do let us know if you have experience in any of these areas.

o Proactively identifying program needs and producing clear written materials (e.g. SOPs, templates, procedures, training plans etc.);
o Gathering information through methods such as surveys, interviews, and/or document/process review, and analyzing that data to identify risks or gaps in controls within an organization’s privacy (or privacy adjacent) practices;
o Making data-driven recommendations to mature program goals; and
o Delivering training to support the program and increase agency awareness.

06

Please select the answer which best describes your ability to use Microsoft Word (version 2016 or newer).

• I have not used Microsoft Word but am willing to learn.
• I can create and save standard letters and memos but would have to learn how to format and edit documents.
• I am able to create, format, edit, preview, print and save documents. I often use standard functions to select, edit, copy, paste, format and spell-check text. I can create bulleted and numbered lists and indent and align paragraphs.
• I regularly create, format and edit tables, columns and charts. I often insert and format sections, create headers and footers, and work with pictures and clip art. I am able to insert, copy, edit and delete hyperlinks and bookmarks in documents.
• I am able to create forms using templates, work with form fields, and format and enhance forms. I use mail merge to create form letters, modify merged documents, and merge envelopes and labels. I am able to restrict editing and formatting of documents.

07

Please select the answer which best describes your ability to use Microsoft Excel (version 2016 or newer).

• I have not used Microsoft Excel but am willing to learn.
• I can create basic lists but would have to learn how to format spreadsheets, copy and sort data, and create basic formulas.
• I am able to enter data into existing spreadsheets, work with basic sorting tools, and create simple formulas for basic mathematical functions.
• I am able to easily create, modify, print and format spreadsheets. I can find and replace data and am able to use basic sorting tools.
• I am able to manipulate large or complex spreadsheets, use complex mathematical formulas to calculate data and link worksheets. I import data from other sources and create and format charts and graphs.

08

Please select the answer which best describes your ability to use Microsoft PowerPoint (version 2016 or newer).

• I can open existing PowerPoint slides and present them in a slide show mode but would have to learn how to create a slide and add text or insert photos and images.
• I regularly create PowerPoint presentations that consist of multiple slides that include text, clip art, pictures, charts and/or graphics. I can easily format the slide content and integrate text with the graphics. I regularly include speakers' notes for slides.
• I have not used PowerPoint but am interested and willing to learn.
• I can create basic PowerPoint slides and add or edit text and images. I am able to open an existing presentation in slide show mode.

09

If hired for this position, do you currently possess required documents to allow you to legally work within the United States? This link lists acceptable documents: https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents

• Yes
• No

10

Will you now or in the future require sponsorship for employment visa status? (e.g. H-1B, F1, TN, etc.) DRS is not an E-Verify agency]

• Yes
• No

11

If hired for this position, do you currently possess required documents to allow you to legally work within the United States? This link lists acceptable documents: https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents

• Yes
• No

12

The application process requires that you attach a resume and cover letter that clearly describes how your knowledge, skills and abilities align with the job duties and qualifications of this position. Please click below to indicate you have attached the required documentation.

• Yes, I have attached a cover letter and a resume.
• No, I have not attached a cover letter and a resume.

Required Question

Agency Information

Employer

State of Washington

Address

View Job Posting for Agency Information








View Job Posting for Location, Washington, 98504

Website

http://www.careers.wa.gov