Address
Form of workSalary : $62,568.00 - $84,192.00 Annually
Location : Multiple Locations Statewide, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number: 2024-01717
Department: Dept. of Commerce
Division: Housing Division
Opening Date: 02/15/2024
Closing Date: 2/29/2024 11:59 PM Pacific
Salary Information: The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step
Description
Commerce Specialist 3
At the Department of Commerce we strive to be creative, collaborative, and trusted. We identify opportunities to deliver critical funding and services to strengthen communities and aim to promote equity in all aspects of our work. We believe that a diverse and inclusive workforce is essential to our success, and we work to foster an environment where all individuals are valued and respected. We cultivate an environment in which we continuously learn, and we own our work.
We invite all candidates to join us in our mission to create a diverse and equitable workplace that reflects the richness of the communities we serve. Together, we can build a brighter and more inclusive future.
The Housing Division (HD) partners with local governments, Tribes, housing authorities, nonprofits, and other organizations to develop and preserve affordable housing, promote individual and family self-sufficiency, and reduce adult and youth homelessness.
This position works within the Landlord Mitigation Program (LMP) in the Homelessness Assistance Unit (HAU) in HD and reports to the LMP Supervisor. The position oversees maintenance of and support for operation of the statewide Landlord Mitigation Programs: Landlord Damage Relief Program (LDRP), Landlord Survivor Relief Program (LSRP), Tenancy Preservation Program (TPP), and any future programs created by Legislature.
Duties:
• Oversee incoming landlord program claims using established processes and procedures.
• Determine if landlord qualifies for the program through review of the required documentation in each claims application for the program.
• Determine completeness and accuracy of submissions. Coordinate communication with claimants regarding incomplete or inaccurate claims.
• Inform applicant when additional documentation is required in order to proceed with the claim.
• Receive, evaluate, and process payment for claims. Meet program targets and ensure timely review and communication for denial of claims.
• Maintain the claim portal, data management and reporting needs for the program.
• Provide technical assistance and respond appropriately to questions or inquiries from interested parties such as landlords, stakeholders, other state agencies and the general public.
• Make recommendations to the Program Supervisor regarding policy and process changes.
• Manage and maintain the program webpage and assist with developing website content including documents, forms, and information for various users.
• Program process improvement, review, revise and establish policies, processes and procedures.
• Update and maintain program Desk Manual.
• Develop and maintain effective relationships with landlords and landlord groups
• Develop and maintain a network of professional contacts in the property management, real estate industry, and local landlord liaisons.
• Provide professional consultation to Commerce and other state and local agency leadership on challenges and opportunities related to Landlord Mitigation programs.
• Represent the agency in professional outreach and training efforts with tenant and landlord organizations; nonprofits, agency staff, tenant advocates, and landlords on public housing systems with the intention of growing access to private market rental units for people receiving public housing assistance.
• Represent the agency a professional statewide communication events including giving presentations, coordinating webinars, or media outreach.
• Collaborate with other state and local Landlord Mitigation or incentive programs to implement best practices. Participate in development and deployment of program benchmarks and goals relevant to the activities of this position including statewide outreach, liaison and landlord training, and the LMP.
Required Qualifications:
Four years of formal education (beyond high school equivalence (to include relevant college level coursework, technical and/or vocational education and/or certification programs)
AND
Three years of professional experience in community, trade or economic development with a focus in property management, customer service, or rental assistance programs.
If the applicant/incumbent does not have four years of formal education, seven years of professional experience, or seven years total of a combination of higher education and professional experience as described.
• At least two of the seven years must include experience using computer and web applications such as Excel, Word, internet browsers, and other applications and databases.
• Demonstrated high level communication skills, both verbally and in writing.
Desired Qualifications:
• Experience working with landlords, property managers, and tenants.
• Experience reviewing residential or commercial construction or repair estimates.
• Experience using a racial equity lens in program design and evaluation.
• Lived experience related to subsidized housing.
• Experience interpreting, writing, and applying detailed policies and procedures.
• Strong ability to independently determine, organize and prioritize workload
To be considered, your application should include:
For questions about this recruitment, contact Elly Price at
Supplemental Information
This recruitment may be used to fill future vacancies over the next 60 days.
This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement.
Technical support is provided by NEOGOV, 855-524-5627 (can't log in, password or email issues, error messages). DES job seeker support may answer general questions regarding the recruiting system at careershelp@des.wa.gov.
Our Commitment to Equal Opportunity:
The Washington State Department of Commerce is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, veterans or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply. Persons needing accommodation in the application, testing, or interview process or this job announcement in an alternative format may call Human Resources at (360) 725-2650. 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.
Work from Anywhere In Washington StateThis position may be located anywhere within Washington State though occasional travel to a Commerce office building or in-state travel to attend events or meetings may be required. If selected, you will need to travel to pick up equipment and receive instruction. Many Commerce employees work remote or have a hybrid schedule.
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
Do you have experience working in property management, customer service, or rental assistance programs?
Location : Multiple Locations Statewide, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number: 2024-01717
Department: Dept. of Commerce
Division: Housing Division
Opening Date: 02/15/2024
Closing Date: 2/29/2024 11:59 PM Pacific
Salary Information: The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step
Description
Commerce Specialist 3
At the Department of Commerce we strive to be creative, collaborative, and trusted. We identify opportunities to deliver critical funding and services to strengthen communities and aim to promote equity in all aspects of our work. We believe that a diverse and inclusive workforce is essential to our success, and we work to foster an environment where all individuals are valued and respected. We cultivate an environment in which we continuously learn, and we own our work.
We invite all candidates to join us in our mission to create a diverse and equitable workplace that reflects the richness of the communities we serve. Together, we can build a brighter and more inclusive future.
The Housing Division (HD) partners with local governments, Tribes, housing authorities, nonprofits, and other organizations to develop and preserve affordable housing, promote individual and family self-sufficiency, and reduce adult and youth homelessness.
This position works within the Landlord Mitigation Program (LMP) in the Homelessness Assistance Unit (HAU) in HD and reports to the LMP Supervisor. The position oversees maintenance of and support for operation of the statewide Landlord Mitigation Programs: Landlord Damage Relief Program (LDRP), Landlord Survivor Relief Program (LSRP), Tenancy Preservation Program (TPP), and any future programs created by Legislature.
Duties:
• Oversee incoming landlord program claims using established processes and procedures.
• Determine if landlord qualifies for the program through review of the required documentation in each claims application for the program.
• Determine completeness and accuracy of submissions. Coordinate communication with claimants regarding incomplete or inaccurate claims.
• Inform applicant when additional documentation is required in order to proceed with the claim.
• Receive, evaluate, and process payment for claims. Meet program targets and ensure timely review and communication for denial of claims.
• Maintain the claim portal, data management and reporting needs for the program.
• Provide technical assistance and respond appropriately to questions or inquiries from interested parties such as landlords, stakeholders, other state agencies and the general public.
• Make recommendations to the Program Supervisor regarding policy and process changes.
• Manage and maintain the program webpage and assist with developing website content including documents, forms, and information for various users.
• Program process improvement, review, revise and establish policies, processes and procedures.
• Update and maintain program Desk Manual.
• Develop and maintain effective relationships with landlords and landlord groups
• Develop and maintain a network of professional contacts in the property management, real estate industry, and local landlord liaisons.
• Provide professional consultation to Commerce and other state and local agency leadership on challenges and opportunities related to Landlord Mitigation programs.
• Represent the agency in professional outreach and training efforts with tenant and landlord organizations; nonprofits, agency staff, tenant advocates, and landlords on public housing systems with the intention of growing access to private market rental units for people receiving public housing assistance.
• Represent the agency a professional statewide communication events including giving presentations, coordinating webinars, or media outreach.
• Collaborate with other state and local Landlord Mitigation or incentive programs to implement best practices. Participate in development and deployment of program benchmarks and goals relevant to the activities of this position including statewide outreach, liaison and landlord training, and the LMP.
Required Qualifications:
Four years of formal education (beyond high school equivalence (to include relevant college level coursework, technical and/or vocational education and/or certification programs)
AND
Three years of professional experience in community, trade or economic development with a focus in property management, customer service, or rental assistance programs.
If the applicant/incumbent does not have four years of formal education, seven years of professional experience, or seven years total of a combination of higher education and professional experience as described.
• At least two of the seven years must include experience using computer and web applications such as Excel, Word, internet browsers, and other applications and databases.
• Demonstrated high level communication skills, both verbally and in writing.
Desired Qualifications:
• Experience working with landlords, property managers, and tenants.
• Experience reviewing residential or commercial construction or repair estimates.
• Experience using a racial equity lens in program design and evaluation.
• Lived experience related to subsidized housing.
• Experience interpreting, writing, and applying detailed policies and procedures.
• Strong ability to independently determine, organize and prioritize workload
To be considered, your application should include:
- A complete and detailed online application.
- A cover letter (enter online).
- At least three (3) professional references (enter online).
For questions about this recruitment, contact Elly Price at
Supplemental Information
This recruitment may be used to fill future vacancies over the next 60 days.
This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement.
Technical support is provided by NEOGOV, 855-524-5627 (can't log in, password or email issues, error messages). DES job seeker support may answer general questions regarding the recruiting system at careershelp@des.wa.gov.
Our Commitment to Equal Opportunity:
The Washington State Department of Commerce is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, veterans or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply. Persons needing accommodation in the application, testing, or interview process or this job announcement in an alternative format may call Human Resources at (360) 725-2650. 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.
Work from Anywhere In Washington StateThis position may be located anywhere within Washington State though occasional travel to a Commerce office building or in-state travel to attend events or meetings may be required. If selected, you will need to travel to pick up equipment and receive instruction. Many Commerce employees work remote or have a hybrid schedule.
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
Do you have experience working in property management, customer service, or rental assistance programs?
