Salary: $63,216.00 – $96,324.00 Annually
Location : Thurston County – Tumwater, WA
Job Type: Full Time – Non-Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 2023-05627
Department: Dept. of Retirement Systems
Division: Project Management Division
Opening Date: 06/08/2023
Closing Date: Continuous
Description
drs.wa.gov
DRS is seeking a highly motivated leader to collaborate with our project team and business teams to maximize user engagement and adoption of modern business processes and technology for pension administration. You don’t need to be a pension expert, just a great leader who loves to help people succeed with transformational change projects. If this sounds like you, please keep reading!
Note: This position is a four-year project position through June 2027. The recruitment will remain open until the position is filled. The hiring manager reserves the right to make a hiring decision at any time. Early applications are encouraged.
About DRSHere at the Department of Retirement Systems (DRS), we are responsible for providing information, tools, expertise, and services that ensure our members receive the retirement benefits they earn while in public service. We administer eight public retirement systems, 15 retirement plans, and the Deferred Compensation Program, and serve over 870,000 current and former public employees in Washington.
Our CustomersOur customers include fire fighters, teachers and school employees, state and local government employees, and public safety and law enforcement officers. Our customers expect to be treated respectfully, to receive responsive service, and for the information they receive to be right. We are dedicated to our customers and to meeting and exceeding these expectations.
Our LocationOur office is located in Tumwater, part of the Olympia/Tumwater/Lacey tri-city area on the southernmost tip of Puget Sound. We are part of a community rich in history, culture, and natural beauty.
Why Work for DRS?At DRS, we are one team. Regardless of what our specific duties may be, we are all dedicated to one purpose: serving our customers. We foster a diverse and inclusive environment where team members are fully engaged and supported in meeting (and exceeding) customer expectations. All DRS leaders are focused on providing the coaching, mentoring, resources and support that team members need to be successful.
At DRS, team members enjoy:
- A modern work environment
- Flexible and compressed work schedules
- Free parking
- Commute Trip Reduction
- Infants at Work Program
- Tuition reimbursement
- Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness
- Opportunities for professional growth
- Commitment to team member safety and wellness
- Community involvement/charitable giving
Come join our team!
Duties
The position
We are seeking a User Engagement Manager who will lead, direct, and oversee the User Engagement Program for the Create an Outstanding Retirement Experience (CORE) Program. The CORE: Pension Administration Modernization (PAM) project is a multi-year, multi-million-dollar complex technology project that will require collaboration with both DRS team members and multiple vendors. The User Engagement Program is one piece of the overall Organizational Change Management strategy and is critical to achieving expected project outcomes.
Reporting to the Organizational Change Manager, you will develop, implement, and evaluate an effective User Engagement Program for the CORE: PAM project. Users include DRS team members, partners, and customers. The User Engagement Manager will provide direction and guidance to the User Engagement Team within the CORE Program.
The User Engagement Program will focus on coordination between business teams and the CORE project team to ensure that all impacted groups are heard and well-represented throughout the effort. This program will drive improvements to DRS team members and the customer experience and be a vital component of ensuring successful adoption of modernized business practices and new technology across the agency by promoting readiness for the future state. The incumbent will provide leadership and oversight in the development and implementation of effective user engagement activities for the CORE Program.
NOTE: Dependent on the nature of the projects and tasks assigned, you may be able to perform duties from a remote work location on a part-time basis, with a telework agreement in place and at the discretion of the team leader. To be eligible for remote work, you must:
- Live within a reasonable commuting distance (less than 50 straight-line miles) to the DRS building in Tumwater, WA;
- Have a remote work environment that is both safe and has an appropriate level of connectivity;
- Be willing and able to adjust your telework schedule at any time to attend mandatory meetings, trainings, etc., at the DRS building in support of the CORE: Pension Administration Modernization Project.
- Due to the collaborative nature of this position and variety within the work assignments, it is not anticipated that this position can efficiently and effectively achieve all its objectives operating 100% remotely. The requirements will vary and be at the discretion of the team leader, it is expected that the position could telework up to 3 days a week.
Qualifications
The requirements:
- Option 1: Five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in process improvement, business process transformation, or organizational development in a professional setting.
OR
- Option 2: Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Public Administration or Organizational Development and two (2) years of progressively responsible experience in process improvement, business process transformation, or organizational development in a professional setting.
Additional Requirements:
- Three (3) years of experience assessing, analyzing, planning, developing, implementing, and sustaining effective user engagement or organizational change management strategies.
- At least two (2) years of experience supervising teams;
- Demonstrated proficiency in developing visual representations of data;
- Demonstrated proficiency in the use of Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint (version 2013 or newer);
- Strong written and verbal communication skills; and
Demonstrated proficiency in the following competency areas:
Leading OthersProvides for and fosters a work environment that emphasizes the coaching, development, motivation, recognition, and accountability of others. Sets clear goals and expectations, delegates work appropriately, and values and uses feedback; demonstrates the courage to address performance problems and issues promptly. Treats team members equitably. Is seen as inquisitive and curious about the team’s performance and asks questions to gain further understanding of what the team needs to be successful.
Managing ChangeUnderstands the need for change and helps plan for and accommodate it as positively as possible. Is flexible and open to new ideas and encourages others. Assesses people and the organization for readiness prior to implementation and evaluates behavior changes and employee reactions following implementation.
AnalysisStudies and reviews data, documentation, 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 individual change impact, resistance, and potential issues, evaluate options, form accurate conclusions, and make recommendations to mitigate and/or progress change readiness, resistance management and other OCM objectives for team members.
Peer RelationshipsFinds common ground and solves problems through collaboration and candid interaction with peers. Is seen as a team player; recognizes the business concerns and perspectives of others. Gains the trust and support of peers by maintaining and strengthening relationships.
Strategic AgilityFormulates objectives and priorities and implements plans consistent with the long-term interests of the organization. Anticipates future trends; predicts how events or situations will affect the organization. Creates breakthrough strategies and plans.
Results Orientation/InitiativeCommitment to DiversityRecognizes the value of diversity. Helps create an environment that embraces and supports diversity, equity and inclusion.
Desirable Experiences:
- Experience developing a user engagement program;
- Experience working on large transformational change;
- Experience with retirement systems, rules, policies and procedures;
- Familiarity with governmental fiscal note and budget cycles; and
- Active participation in technical system implementations on a project team.
Supplemental Information
Interested applicants who meet the qualifications and competencies in this announcement are encouraged to apply for this opportunity. Be sure to complete all sections of the electronic application and answer all supplemental questions. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of completing the work history section of the application template. Applications with comments “see attachments” will be considered incomplete. Only those applicants whose background and experience most closely matches the desirable qualifications and competencies of this position will be considered for this opportunity.
Please attach the following to your online application:
- A letter of interest clearly describing how your knowledge, skills and abilities align with the job duties and qualifications of this position;
- A chronological resume outlining your experience to-date; and
- Three professional references
Important Information:
- For the preferred candidate, please provide three professional references who can endorse your work performance, technical skills, and knowledge. A preferred professional reference would include a supervisor or manager.
- Candidates who are current or recent state employees, we will also review the personnel file as part of our process.
- A job offer is contingent upon completion of a background check that includes a criminal record review.
- 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.
Veteran’s Preference: Applicants wishing to claim Veteran’s Preference should attach a copy of their DD214 (Member 4 copy), NGB 22, or signed verification of service letter from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs to their application. Please remove or redact any personally identifiable information such as social security numbers and year of birth. For additional information on Veteran’s Preference and guidance on how to determine if you are eligible,
The Washington State Department of Retirement Systems is an equal opportunity employer supporting diversity, equity and inclusion. DRS does not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, race, creed, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran or military status, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability.
If you need assistance with the online application or have questions regarding the recruitment, please contact Human Resource office at
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 (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 (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 , 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, are entitled to three (3) 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
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 12-31-2022
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
The application process requires that you attached a cover letter detailing how you meet the qualifications of this position, resume and a list of three professional references? Please click below to indicate you have attached the required documentation.
- Yes, I have attached a cover letter, resume and a list of three professional references.
- No, I have not attached a cover letter, resume and a list of three professional references.
03
How did you learn about this employment opportunity?
- The careers.wa.gov website
- The DRS website
- E-mail/text notification from DRS
- From a DRS employee
- WorkSource
- College Career Site
- Handshake
- Indeed
- WA State Business Resource Group (VERG, RAIN etc.)
- From another source
- Career Fair
04
Are you willing and able to undergo a criminal background check if you are the preferred candidate for this position? Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining suitability and competence to perform in this position.
- Yes
- No
Required Question