Senior Tax Policy Specialist

State of Washington
Tumwater, WA


The Department of Revenue's Research and Fiscal Analysis (RFA) Division is looking to fill multiple Tax Policy Specialist 3 (TPS3)positions in Tumwater, WA. These positions are a part of a group of professionals responsible for constant observation and economic analysis of the effectiveness and adequacy of revenue laws and proposed legislation.
The Department of Revenue is responsible for maintaining a tax research section. The Research and Fiscal Analysis division conducts constant observation and economic investigation of the effectiveness and adequacy of revenue laws of this state in order to assist the Governor, the Legislature, and the Director in estimation of revenue, analysis of tax measures, and determination of the administrative feasibility of proposed tax legislation.
Candidate screening will begin as early asApril 3, 2026,and the hiring authority may exercise the option to make a hiring decision at any time after. It will be to the applicant's advantage to submit materials as soon as possible.
Revenueisa dynamic learning organization where you will experience a remarkable work-life balance, with amazing leadership and talented co-workers ready and focused to achieve the agency's goals. We value diverse perspectives and life experiences. We employ and serve people of all backgrounds, including people of color, immigrants, refugees, LGBTQ+, people with disabilities, and veterans. This unique culture of respect promotes a professional family of cohesive groups, maximizing potential through opportunity. We offer a generous benefits package that includes defined benefit retirement plans; health, dental and vision coverage, deferred compensation plans, and as a public service employee, you may also be eligible forstudent loan forgiveness.
Visit these links to watch our recruitment video to find out more about our agency and see what our employees say about why Revenue is a great place to work.
Please review the opportunity details below and forward this message to others you feel may be qualified.Conduct tax and economic impact studies of importance for the agency and other state agencies, including the implementation, direction, and review of all aspects of a study,includingthe assessment of impacts and policy implications from the agency perspective.If you thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative, team environment and enjoy data mining and researching complex information, with the keen insight to interpret and project trends, this position is for you.

Other essential functions of this position are:
  • Prepare fiscal notes and fiscal estimates for the Governor, the Legislature, and agency Executive staff in support of the legislative process.
  • Provide fiscal, quantitative, and economic information, and formulate policy recommendations for the efficient administration of taxes and sound tax policy.
  • Lead projects to develop solutions to policy issues impacting the department’s Executive staff, the Governor, other agencies, the Legislature, local governments, and other concerned parties.
  • Responds to requests for information and analytical assistance to resolve policy questions on economic trends and revenue.
  • Conduct a thorough review of electronic and paper records in response to public records requests and litigation hold notices.

The required qualifications are key competencies that have been successfully demonstrated through experience or education. To join our team, you must possess experience working in a team using analytical thinking, policy development, research and analysis, project management, technical proficiency, and interpersonal and communication skills as described below.


Teamwork:

  • Work with other analysts in research and analysis.

  • Serve as a journey-level analyst.


Analytical Thinking:

  • Take part in a quantitative report or project.

  • Develop appropriate estimating methods and prepare estimates.


Policy Development:

  • Effectively apply and review policy goals to data products.

  • Summarize, analyze, and understand quantitative information.

  • Provide feedback on reports or projects.


Research and Analysis:

  • Research complex topics, such as federal, state, and local tax laws and policies.

  • Conduct in-depth research, offering valuable insights and analytical support to resolve questions.

  • Provide quantitative information and analytical assistance to stakeholders.


Project Management:

  • Demonstrate significant project participation or smaller project leadership.

  • Develop solutions to sensitive issues.

  • Prepare reports or projects, including the measurement of processes and the preparation of graphics and other descriptive materials.


Technical Proficiency:

  • Use computer applications at a high level, including Microsoft Office products.

  • Collaborate with others to analyze and resolve technical flaws.


Interpersonal & Communication Skills:

  • Handle sensitive situations. Facilitate discussions to arrive at agreed-upon solutions.

  • Suggest solutions for complex and sensitive matters.

  • Effectively communicate information to others through clear and concise correspondence.


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.


Preference may be granted to candidates who possess:
  • Ability to program at an intermediate level using SAS or a similar statistical analysis programming tool (For example: STATA, R, PYTHON, and SQL).
  • Experience with and understanding of research and analysis, as well as knowledge of data organization.
  • Knowledge of regression analysis/applied statistics, economics, project management, the legislative process, and Washington's tax system.
  • Nine years of experience that includes progressive advancement in leadership, leadership, analytical thinking, policy development, research and analysis, project management, technical proficiency, and interpersonal and communication skills.

  • A bachelor's degree in economics, statistics, taxation, public finance, accounting, mathematics, data science, data analytics, or other closely allied field ANDfive years of professional experience in economics, statistical analysis, public finance, or tax administration.

  • A master’s degree in economics, statistics, taxation, public finance, accounting, mathematics, data science, data analytics, or other closely allied field ANDthree years of professional experience in economics, statistical analysis, public finance, or tax administration.

  • A Ph.D. degree in economics, statistics, taxation, public finance, accounting, mathematics, data science, data analytics, or other closely allied field ANDone year of professional experience in economics, statistical analysis, public finance, or tax administration.


To be considered:
  • Complete your online applicationin detail,as it will be used as your initial resume.
  • Attach a cover letterexplaining your knowledge, skills, abilities, and desire for this position.

*Note - Incomplete applications and applications received without requested attachments may be disqualified.*

To take advantage of Veteran's preferenceplease attach your DD-214, member 4 long form, or your NGB-22. Please blackout your social security number and birth date before attaching.


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 Jobs@dor.wa.gov or give me a call (360) 704-5725.

The Human Resource Division may use referrals from this recruitment to help fill future similar vacancies for up to six months.


This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement between the Department of Revenue and the Washington Public Employees Association (WPEA).

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.


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.

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