Corrections Specialist 3 - INTERNAL GRE - Tacoma

About the Department

• This is an INTERNAL recruitment, open to current, permanent WA State Department of Corrections employees only.
• Our agency offers a free ORCA card to all employees whose permanent duty station is assigned in King, Pierce, and Snohomish counties.

We are looking for teammates who share our vision of public service and are committed to an equitable and inclusive culture that fosters and inspires excellence, while promoting innovation, engagement, and safety, leading to better outcomes for our community and our agency. If you have a passion for service - review, decide, and apply!

HOW TO APPLY
Select the 'Apply' button located at the top right corner of this posting. A complete application packet will include the following:

1. Online application. You must complete the online application, including the 'Work Experience' section. Your resume will not substitute for this requirement. 
2. Cover letter. Regarding your interest in this position.
3. Resume. Detailed and chronological. 
4. Three professional-level references. Current and recent supervisors are preferred with a valid phone number and email for each. Review the 'Supplement Information' section for the requirements and definition of. References are contacted after the interview process.
5. Unofficial transcripts (if applicable). If your qualifying experience is less than seven years or if you are not sure if your experience qualifies, you must attach a copy of your unofficial transcripts from an accredited higher education institution to supplement for the required minimum qualifications. 
6. Credential evaluation report (if applicable). If your degree was awarded outside the United States, you must also attach a credential evaluation report. Review the 'Supplement Information' section for more information.

Applicants wishing to claim Veterans’ preference should attach a copy of your DD-214 (member 4 copy), NGB 22, or signed verification of service letter from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs. 

Do not include any personal photos or personally identifiable data within your application packet, such as a driver’s license or social security number.   

Incomplete application packages or statements such as ‘see resume’ in lieu of the requested information may disqualify you from the process.

Position Duties

• Monitor incarcerated individuals in the community and in accordance with Washington State law, rules and regulations, and agency policy within prescribed timeframes.
• Engage with incarcerated individuals to encourage and work towards positive change.
• Enforce GRE/AMP program conditions and the law.
• Facilitate the requirements of EESB 5121 Graduated Reentry. 
• Lead other Corrections Specialists.
• Other duties as assigned and necessary.

To request a copy of the detailed position description, email the assigned recruiter at the end of this posting. Don't forget to refer to the 2026- requisition/job listed above.

Minimum Qualifications

MINIMUM REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS FOR ALL CASES LISTED BELOW

• Armed staff must have the ability to carry and properly utilize a department-issued firearm.
  • Note: Staff who do not qualify for legacy status under the provisions for arming are required to be armed and must be willing and able to possess and use a firearm under federal and state law; maintain firearm qualifications; and successfully complete ongoing training requirements associated with mandatory arming and potential use of force. 
• Must possess and maintain a vehicles operator’s license valid in the state of Washington.

AND MUST POSSESS ONE OF THE FOLLOWING CASES

• Four years' experience as a Community Corrections Officer with the Washington State Department of Corrections.

OR

• Bachelor’s degree from a college or university whose accreditation is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or the US Department of Education,
• And three years of professional case management**experience in adult or juvenile corrections or closely related field which includes at least three of the following:
  • Making field visits
  • Writing reports
  • Assessing cases and making recommendations
  • Referring people to appropriate resources
  • Presenting cases in court/hearings

OR

• Equivalent combination of qualifying higher education and/or experience equaling seven years.

**Professional case management includes activities such as: assessment of risk factors; designing, monitoring and/or facilitating treatment plans; determining and making referrals to resources as appropriate (chemical dependency, substance abuse, family counseling, job training assistance, etc.); maintaining official records and tracking client progress/compliance; and assisting individuals who are unable to independently access support systems or community resources such as those providing food, clothing, or monetary assistance and shelter.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

• Master’s degree in sociology, social work, psychology, criminology, or closely related field. 

In addition to the above, this position requires demonstrated competency in the following areas (competency may be gained through education, experience, or a combination thereof):

• Community Relationships: Participates in the formation and maintenance of successful relationships with criminal justice partners and community resources.
• Observation: Observes and strategizes personal action based on environmental conditions and human behavior.
• Stress Tolerance: Remains calm and rational while handling difficult situations to include, but not limited to, volatile, threatening, or other crisis/emergency situations. Expertly intervenes in response to threats.
• Professional Standards: Knows and applies relevant law, policy, procedure, and practice. Adheres to productivity standards and timelines established by law and policy. Identifies own training needs and proactively seeks training opportunities.
• Adaptability: Incorporates latest information into an existing framework of understanding. Accepts change and supports the Agency through changes in law, policy, and procedure.
• Integrity: Earns others’ trust and respect through consistent honesty and professionalism in all interactions.
• Leadership: Promotes organizational mission and goals and demonstrates how to achieve them.
• Problem Solving: Rapid problem-solving ability. Identifies and analyzes problems; weighs relevance and accuracy of information; generates and evaluates alternative solutions; makes recommendations.
• Communication: Ability to communicate effectively and appropriately when providing and receiving constructive feedback/criticism.
• Initiative: Ability to work and accomplish goals independently; takes ownership and accountability for own performance.

If selected for hire, you may be required to meet the following SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS and CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:

• Complete a felony disclosure form prior to employment and submit to a criminal background check.
• Complete and pass the psychological screening (Battery Exam and Psychological Interview/Evaluation). 
• Submit to drug testing in accordance with Collective Bargaining Agreement and agency policy.
• Successfully complete, within mandated timeframes, employee orientation and all other mandatory annual, in-service, and other required training. 
• Become familiar and comply with all department policies and procedures and Collective Bargaining Agreements, as applicable.
• Successfully complete the Firearms Academy and Control/Impedance Tactics (CIT) training within prescribed timeframes. This requirement includes:
  • Maintaining eligibility to possess and use a firearm under federal and state laws.
  • Maintaining qualifications per department training standards with department-issued firearms and with Intermediate Force options (e.g., OC ‘pepper’ spray or electronic immobilization devices).
  • Maintaining CIT qualifications. 
  • Completing all agency requalification training and an annual criminal history clearance to remain armed.

Other Qualifications

Vision:  Working together for safer communities.
Mission:  Improving public safety by positively changing lives.
Our Commitment:  To operate a safe and humane corrections system and partner with others to transform lives for a better Washington.

For more information about our agency, visit our Mission & Vision.

The WA State Department of Corrections (DOC) is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, honorably discharged veteran, veteran status, genetic information, or the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability or the use of a trained guide dog or service animal by a person with a disability.

IMPORTANT NOTES:

• This recruitment may be used to fill more than one position. If this position is represented by the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE), this recruitment may be used to fill additional positions up to sixty days after all listed positions have been filled.
• References: A minimum of three professional references with a valid email and phone number for each is required. Although current and recent supervisors are preferred, a professional reference is defined as an individual who has been paid to supervise your work and can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job competencies. If you do not have any or sufficient professional references, include non-related professionals, such as educators or other professional associates. If you are entering your references in the online application (preferred), complete the following fields: 
  • First and Last name
  • Title (include their relationship to you, for example: Field Administrator, former supervisor)
  • Phone
  • Email
  • Address Line 1 (list the name of the reference's organization)
• Salary is based on skills and abilities that apply to the primary functions of the role and/or years of experience and is decided at the time a final offer of employment is made. The salary range listed in the job posting includes steps A-M. Within a permanent salary range, step M is a longevity step, it is typically gained six years after being assigned to step L.
• Work with or near incarcerated or supervised individuals: This position may work directly with or near incarcerated or supervised individuals in a potentially hazardous setting. Take this into account before applying. 
• Background and criminal record history checks will be conducted prior to employment. Information gathered may not preclude employment, but it will be considered in determining your suitability for the position.
• Pre-employment drug test: A drug test may be administered as part of the pre-employment process. Applicants who test positive for a controlled substance may be disqualified from consideration.
• Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) is an aerosol pepper spray made available as a means of self-defense and/or de-escalation. Applicants with sensitivities or allergies are encouraged to ask about the level of exposure you could expect in this position. 
• 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 Form I-9’s list of acceptable documents. Note: DOC does not use E-Verify. We are not able to partake in STEM Optional Practice Training (OPT). 

• Foreign equivalent degrees: If your degree was awarded outside the United States, you may be required to provide a credential evaluation report if your education is used to meet the minimum requirements. Request a report fromwww.wes.org and www.aice-eval.org. 

• Represented position: This position is represented by the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE). 

Telework Details
This position may be allocated for telework up to one day each week. Employees must use a reliable internet or cellular hotspot service at an authorized location within the state of Washington. Employees with an approved telework agreement in place are expected to perform assigned duties in a safe manner, take proper care of all state-issued equipment, and maintain confidentiality. You will be required to commute to a DOC facility or field office as business requires, which may include components of the onboarding and training process. Details will be provided before hire.

What We Offer
Your work-life integration is a priority. Washington State employees are offered one of the most inclusive and competitive benefits packages in the nation. Besides a generous retirement plan and comprehensive family insurance for medical, dental, and vision, additional perks might include:

• Fourteen to twenty-five paid vacation days per year (depending on years of service and in accordance with the collective bargaining agreement (CBA) if a represented position)
• Eight hours of paid sick leave per month
• Twelve paid holidays per year (includes one personal holiday)
• One personal leave day per year (in accordance with the CBA)
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP)
• Deferred Compensation Program (DCP)
• And more! Visit our benefits page for more information. 

Retirement Options

• PERS: State employees are members of the Washington Public Employees’ Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer-contributed retirement programs within PERS. For additional information, refer to the Department of Retirement Systems or call 800-547-6657.
• PSERS: Many positions within DOC are covered by the Public Safety Employees' Retirement System (PSERS). If someone moves from a PERS-eligible position to a PSERS-eligible position, they will retire under two different systems/plans. Contact DRS for more information. 

For questions about this recruitment or to request reasonable accommodation in the application process, contact [email protected] (Talent Acquisition Recruiter/HRC4) or 360-522-6304. Make sure you reference the recruitment/job # listed above, it begins with 2026-.

For TTY service, please call the Washington Relay Service at 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6388.

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

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Agency Information

EmployerState of WashingtonAddress View Job Posting for Agency Information

View Job Posting for Location, Washington, 98504 Website http://www.careers.wa.gov