Management Analyst 3 - Employer Support Services (ESS) Unit

Do you enjoy being a trusted expert that others rely on for clear and accurate guidance? Are you motivated by continuous learning and the opportunity to help public employers navigate complex systems and regulations that directly impact the retirement benefits of thousands of public servants across Washington State? And, do you bring strong analytical skills, confidence in problem-solving, and a collaborative approach to supporting others? If this sounds like you, the Management Analyst 3 role in the Employer Support Services unit at the Department of Retirement Systems (DRS) may be the perfect fit for you!

This recruitment is open to permanent DRS team members only.
Please do not apply if you are not a current DRS team member.

To be considered, you must apply the end of the day (11:59 PM) on Monday, December 29, 2025.
We are seeking to fill two (2) MA3 permanent positions.

The Opportunity
Working in our Employer Support Services (ESS) unit, you will provide professional analysis, consultation, troubleshooting, and training to over 1400 public employers who report retirement information on behalf of their employees.

Some of what you'll do includes

• Working directly with employers to analyze, research, and troubleshoot payroll and reporting errors occurring during data transfers between employer payroll systems and DRS applications, including identifying root causes of errors and advising on corrective actions and best practices to prevent future issues.

• Collaborating with software vendors' system analysts to fix or enhance employer payroll and retirement reporting systems to streamline data transfers and improve accuracy of transmitted information.

• Providing professional-level consultative support for employers interpreting and applying RCWs, WACs, administrative rules, statutes, and agency policies to ensure accurate reporting, compliance with retirement laws, and effective use of agency systems, online tools. and applications.

• Developing, delivering, and facilitating training for HR, benefits, and payroll staff through classroom instruction, virtual sessions, one-on-one consultations, and conference presentations, with a focus on preventing common reporting errors.

• Serving as a business representative on agency system and application projects by identifying business requirements, conducting research and analysis, and participating in system and user acceptance testing.

• Acting as a liaison between DRS and the employer community to ensure employer perspectives are incorporated into system enhancements, policy updates, and administrative practice changes.

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 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.

What we're looking for (required qualifications):

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

• Proven experience conducting research and analysis of federal and/or state laws, rules, and organizational policies and explaining them to others; and
• Proven experience providing assistance and troubleshooting computer or technical issues; and
  The above experience is typically gained through a minimum of year (2) years of full-time professional experience.
• Ability to travel within Washington State, often overnight, up to 20% of the time; and
• Demonstrated proficiency in the following competency areas:

Customer Focus
Dedicated to meeting the expectations and requirements of customers. Delivers 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 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.

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/decisions.

Researching and Gathering Information
Effectively identifies, collects, organizes and documents relevant data and information in ways that make the information most useful for subsequent assessment, analysis, and investigation.

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.

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.

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.

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. This recruitment is open to current permanent DRS team members only.

To be considered for this position, please be sure to attach 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

• If you are the preferred candidate for this position, a professional reference from your current or most recent supervisor will be required;
• 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.