Administrative Decision and Disability Review Specialist - RS4

Do you enjoy working with a diverse and inclusive team dedicated to providing outstanding customer service? Are you a pro at interpreting complex information, laws, and policies and translating them into clear, understandable terms? Do you excel at providing written communication that explains complex information in easily understood, plain talk language? And, do you thrive in a dynamic environment that values employee learning and growth? If this sounds like you, the role of Administrative Decision and Disability Review Specialist - RS4 at the Department of Retirement Systems (DRS) may be the perfect opportunity for you!

This recruitment will remain open until filled. Applicants who apply prior to December 2, 2024, will get first consideration. The hiring manager reserves the right to make a hiring decision at any time during the recruitment process.

The Opportunity We are seeking an Administrative Decision and Disability Review Specialist who is highly analytical and organized; uses sound judgement in interpretation of laws, policies, and procedures; and can consistently communicate complex information to others using understandable/plain talk language.

Some of what you'll do includes:

• Performing secondary review of disability applications through analysis of submitted applications and medical documentation. Determining how the facts apply to the relevant disability laws and rules and providing a final recommendation. Occasionally, completing a primary review for cases that need to be expedited or are complex in nature and need special attention.
  
• Communicating regularly with customers via mail or phone if additional information is needed before review of application; to explain decisions and applicable RCWs, WACs, policies and procedures; and to provide customers with next steps should they disagree with administrative outcome.
  
• Serving as a technical expert and professional resource for administrative policy issues related to the retirement systems, plans and deferred compensation program administered by the agency.
  
  
• Researching customer accounts to fully understand contested issues and research administrative decisions library (DOORS) and documents in the legal order library (LORS) to first determine whether a similar situation has been reviewed and responded to in the past. Review OLM and any other written procedures on the topic.
  
• Working closely with disability coordinator to finalize outcomes, correspondence, and required file documentation.
  
• Running disability data reports and other disability related inquires as needed and upon request and independently ensuring data tracking is up to date and accurate at all times.

NOTE: 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.

What we're looking for (required qualifications):

• Two (2) years of experience as a Retirement Specialist 3, OR
• Proven experience performing senior-level consultation, analysis, and/or audit responsibilities requiring the interpretation and analysis of federal and/or state laws, rules, policies, procedures, guidelines and processes.
  This experience is typically gained through six (6) years of professional work experience. (a Bachelor's degree in business administration, public administration, or closely allied field may substitute for up to four (4) years of experience); and
• Demonstrated experience showing strong analytical decision making, problem solving, and consultative skills; and
• Proven ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing, to articulate complex information in easily understandable terms for external parties; and
• A strong commitment to customer service; and
• Demonstrated proficiency with Microsoft Word and Excel (version 2016 or newer); and
• Demonstrated ability to use multiple computer applications simultaneously; 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. 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.

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.

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.

Attention to Detail
Plans and organizes time and resources efficiently. Follows processes and procedures in the completion of work. Carefully monitors the details and quality of work and double-checks work product to ensure accuracy and consistency.

Decision Quality Makes well-informed, effective, and timely decisions based upon a mixture of analysis, wisdom, experience, and judgment. Most solutions and suggestions turn out to be correct and accurate when judged over time. Is sought out by others for advice and solutions.

Managing Workloads
Effectively organizes and prioritizes multiple, often complex assignments, often involving competing priorities, to produce work products that are accurate, thorough and on-time. Transitions easily between tasks; can incorporate project work into established workload and meet deadlines.

Commitment to Diversity
Recognizes the value of diversity. Helps create an environment that embraces and supports diversity, equity and inclusion.

The following skills are not required but will set you apart:

• Knowledge of DRS retirement specific RCWs, WACs, policies and procedures.

Be sure to read this entire section - We promise, it'll be helpful!
To be considered, please attach the following to your online application:

• A cover letter clearly describing how your knowledge, skills and abilities align with the job duties and qualifications of this position and why this position interests you.
• A chronological resume outlining your experience to-date.
  Please keep in mind that professional or verifiable volunteer experience may be relevant.

How to Apply: Interested applicants who meet the qualifications and competencies in this announcement are encouraged to apply. 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 matches the desirable qualifications and competencies of this position will be considered for this opportunity. 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;
• If you are 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.

Union Membership

• This position is part of a bargaining unit represented by the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE).

Why Work for DRS? At DRS, we are one team. We administer eight public retirement systems, 15 retirement plans, and the Deferred Compensation Program, and we serve over 930,000 current and former public employees in Washington. Our customers include fire fighters, teachers and school employees, state and local government employees, and public safety and law enforcement officers. Regardless of what our specific duties may be, we are all dedicated to one purpose: ensuring our members have the information, tools, expertise and services that ensure they receive the retirement benefits earned while in public service. We foster a diverse and inclusive environment where team members are fully engaged and supported in meeting (and exceeding) our customers' 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:

• Flexible work schedules
• Free parking
• Commute Trip Reduction Program
• Infants at Work Program
• Tuition reimbursement
• Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness
• Opportunities for professional growth
• Subscription to LinkedIn Learning
• Commitment to team member safety and wellness
• Community involvement/charitable giving

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, click here. 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 drs.recruitment@drs.wa.gov. Persons of disability needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this announcement in an alternate format, may call the Human Resources Office at (360) 664-7208 or TTY Relay Service at 711. Come join the DRS team!