Levies Specialist (PAS-5), In-training

About the Department

Position Duties

Reporting to the County Performance & Administrative Manager, this positions' primary duties are to serve as one of the three statewide experts for property tax levies, overseeing and reviewing local property tax levy administration, and providing training to the agency, county officials, and impacted groups regarding property tax levies.  
 
Here are some of the other duties:

• Providing analysis and technical advice to agency and legislative staff regarding proposed legislation for property tax levies and Tax Increment Financing.
• Conducting a statewide audit program to oversee and monitor compliance with state laws and rules regarding the levy administration processes.
• Planning, developing, and instructing educational seminars for impacted groups. 
• Providing written guidance to local officials and the general public regarding property tax levies.
• Participating in special projects, training, staff meetings, and interview panels.

Minimum Qualifications

We are looking for motivated professionals with strong analytical and technical skills, along with the ability to learn and effectively implement the Levy Program. The ideal candidate will possess the following knowledge, skills, and abilities:

 

Knowledge

• Demonstrated knowledge of property tax levy laws, regulations, policies, and procedures; evidenced through experience interpreting, applying, administering, advising on, or ensuring compliance with statutory or policy requirements.

• Demonstrated knowledge of legislative and governmental processes; evidenced through experience analyzing proposed or enacted legislation, evaluating program impacts, developing implementation strategies, or providing policy recommendations.

• Demonstrated knowledge of governmental programs and intergovernmental relationships; evidenced through experience collaborating with, advising, supporting, or coordinating activities among state agencies, local government, taxing districts, or other entities involved in tax administration.

• Demonstrated knowledge of property tax administration principles, including the relationship between valuation, taxation, and levy processes; evidenced through professional experience, education, or training.

Skills

• Demonstrated skill researching, analyzing, and interpreting complex laws, regulations, policies, technical guidance, or other specialized information; evidenced through experience providing technical advice, policy analysis, recommendations, or program guidance.

• Demonstrated skill investigating, evaluating, and resolving complex program, compliance, or operational issues; evidenced through experience conducting reviews, audits, assessments, case analyses, or developing corrective recommendations.

• Demonstrated skill preparing reports, policy recommendations, technical guidance, correspondence, manuals, training materials, or other written products that communicate complex information clearly and effectively to diverse audiences.

• Demonstrated skill presenting technical information, providing training, or consultation services; evidenced through experience instructing, facilitating discussions, advising impacted groups, or speaking to professional or public audiences.

Abilities

• Proven ability to provide technical guidance and consultation on complex program, policy, or regulatory issues; evidenced through experience advising interested parties, developing recommendations, and supporting consistent application of laws, rules, policies, or procedures to resolve issues and achieve program objectives.

• Proven ability to independently identify program, process, or compliance deficiencies, evaluate alternatives, and develop practical recommendations that improve effectiveness, consistency, efficiency, or compliance.

• Proven ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with government officials, agency staff, external partners, and the public to resolve issues, achieve program objectives, and support implementation of policy or program changes.

• Proven ability to manage multiple complex assignments or projects simultaneously, establish priorities, adapt to changing requirements, and meet deadlines while exercising sound judgment and operating with minimal supervision.

 

Equity Competencies

• The ability to take action to learn and grow: Curious about themselves and others, take responsibility for knowing their own strengths and weaknesses, and use their learning to make government programs and processes more efficient and effective to serve all in Washington.

• The ability to take action to meet the needs of others: Flexible, adaptable, customer-service focused, and willing and able to empathetically respond to the unique needs of the people they work with and serve.

• Uses an equity & inclusive approach: Actively seeks to understand and appreciate the diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences of colleagues, customers, and communities. Encourages an inclusive culture where everyone feels valued and respected. Uses an equity lens that applies an objective perspective to daily work by considering impacts on the people we serve, particularly marginalized groups by actively identifying and removing inequitable barriers.

You may not feel confident that you qualify for this position. For example, research suggests that women and people of color are less likely to apply unless they are confident they meet 100% of the listed qualifications. We strongly encourage all interested individuals who fulfill the required KSA's to apply as we would like the opportunity to consider your KSA's provided in your application. If after reviewing the qualifications, you are unsure you qualify, please contact Melissa Olivas at [email protected] or (360) 534-1425. 

The above knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSA) may be obtained through the following professional experiences, education, or life experiences. 
 
At the PAS 5 ($6,542 - $8,801 monthly) level: 

Six (6) years or more of professional experience in any of the following:

• Management of property tax levy programs and administration.
• Government agencies or public policy organizations, especially those focused on property tax policy and administration.
• Providing consultative guidance to senior management, elected officials, and government agencies on property tax levy programs.
• Advisory roles requiring research and interpretation of laws or providing technical expertise on federal, state, or local programs.
• Appraisal or accounting positions involving property valuation and tax compliance.
• Nonprofits or consulting focused on tax advocacy, program development and oversight, or public interest research.
• Data analytics or research organizations where analyzing complex datasets is key to informed decision-making.
• Policy research with a focus on tax policy levy issues.

 

OR

A bachelor’s degree involving major study in law, business, public administration, political science, or related field AND at least two (2) years of progressively responsible professional experience interpreting, applying, and communicating tax laws, regulations, policies, legal opinions, or agency procedures to internal staff, external impacted groups, elected officials, or the public.

OR

An associate’s degree in law, business, public administration, political science, or a related field AND at least four (4) years of progressively responsible professional experience in property tax administration, public policy, regulatory analysis, legal analysis, or public-sector program administration involving interpretation and application of laws, rules, or policies.

We will also consider filling these positions as in-training at the Property & Acquisition Specialist 4 level. An in-training is on-the-job instruction for employees. You’ll gain the competencies and skills needed to successfully perform your duties while being supported by your supervisor, manager, and coworkers. Upon successful completion, you will be promoted to the next level.

At the PAS 4, In-training ($6,075 - $8,172 monthly) level – 12-month training plan:

Six (6) years or more of professional experience in any of the following:

• Knowledge of property tax levy programs and administration.
• Government agencies or public policy organizations, especially those focused on property tax policy and administration.
• Collaboration with senior management, elected officials, and government agencies on property tax levy programs.
• Roles requiring research and interpretation of laws or providing technical expertise on federal, state, or local programs.
• Appraisal or accounting positions involving property valuation and tax compliance.
• Nonprofits or consulting focused on tax advocacy, program development and oversight, or public interest research.
• Data analytics or research organizations where analyzing complex datasets is key to informed decision-making.
• Policy research with a focus on tax policy levy issues.

 

OR
 
A bachelor’s degree involving major study in law, business, public administration, political science, or related field AND at least one (1) years of progressively responsible professional experience interpreting, applying, and communicating tax laws, regulations, policies, legal opinions, or agency procedures to internal staff, external impacted groups, elected officials, or the public.
 
OR

An associate’s degree in law, business, public administration, political science, or a related field AND at least two (2) years of progressively responsible professional experience in property tax administration, public policy, regulatory analysis, legal analysis, or public-sector program administration involving interpretation and application of laws, rules, or policies.

Do not be discouraged to apply if you live outside of Tumwater. While there will be considerable time in Tumwater for training, Revenue's "Where We Work" initiative provides a possible opportunity to be assigned to an alternate duty station if you live more than 50 miles from Tumwater, making it possible to receive reimbursement for travel."

 
To be considered:

• Please complete/update your online profile in detail, as it will serve as your initial resume.
• Please attach a letter of interest describing your specific experience ties to the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities for this position.
• Please attach a writing sample that showcases your analytical skills, ability to simplify complex concepts. Acceptable samples could include legal or policy analyses, team guidance documents, or responses to customer or constituent concerns. We look forward to reviewing your work!

 

* Note - Failure to attach requested documentation may result in removal from the competitive process.
 
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 attachment.

 
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 [email protected] or give me a call (360) 704-5725.  

Other Qualifications

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.  
 
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).
  
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.
 
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.

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

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