The Department of Revenue's Interpretations & Technical Advice (ITA) division is looking for fresh talent to join our team as Tax Policy Specialists.  ITA is a fun, dedicated team of professionals committed to providing excellent customer service to advance consistent, legally sound, and well-balanced tax policy. This opportunity is available in Tumwater, WA.

As a vital member of our team, you will have the opportunity to shape and influence policy for state tax and other programs administered by the department, while enjoying a variety of challenging work assignments, thinking creatively, and working on cutting edge issues, all with no billable hours! ITA offers an incredible work-life balance and the opportunity for flexible working arrangements.

The hiring manager may start screening applicants as early as September 18, 2023 and make a hiring decision at any time after. It will be to your advantage to submit materials as soon as possible.

Revenue is a 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 for student 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.

We invite you to review the opportunity details below and forward this message to others you feel may be qualified.

Duties

Because we are filling multiple positions, we will consider the Tax Policy Specialist 3 (TPS 3) candidates with legal or non-legal qualifications.

A typical day as a TPS 3 may include:

• Researching state, local, or federal tax law.
• Conducting technical, legal and policy analysis on complex tax or other program issues submitted by partners divisions, ITA management, or the department's executive team.
• Developing and evaluating policy alternatives to assist the department's legislative and/or executive offices.
• Drafting rules (Washington Administrative Code), interpretive statements,  or other policy guidance.
• Participating in department implementation projects with statewide or even national significance.
• Leading meetings with external and internal audiences on important tax issues.
• Supporting the Department’s Working Family Tax program that provides refunds to low and moderate income Washingtonians.
• Supporting the Department Unclaimed Property Tax program that seeks to reunite owners with their lost property.

Qualifications

Minimum qualifications for the legal TPS 3

Admission to practice law in the State of Washington; or a Juris Doctorate from an accredited school of law and current admission to practice before the highest court of a state.

AND

For current or past employees of the Department of Revenue: One year of experience as a Tax Policy Specialist 2.

OR

For any applicant: Three years of professional experience 1) in tax administration, tax auditing, tax collection or tax program/policy analysis, 2) as a hearings examiner in a governmental agency, 3) as an assistant attorney general, and/or 4) as a practicing attorney.

Note - An L.L.M. (or master’s degree in taxation or closely allied field) will substitute for one year of professional experience.

Minimum qualifications for the non-legal TPS 3:

A bachelor's degree in business or public administration, accounting, public finance or closely allied field

AND

Six years of professional experience in economic or tax program/policy analysis, tax administration, tax auditing, tax collection, or experience as a hearings examiner in a governmental agency. At least three years must be in tax program/policy analysis.

Note - A master's degree in taxation or closely allied field will substitute for one year of experience.

Preference may be granted to candidates with these qualifications:

• Admission to practice law in the State of Washington; or graduation from an accredited school of law and current or previous admission to practice before the highest court of a state.
• Knowledge and experience with tax law, ideally in Washington State.
• Knowledge of federal tax law and associated regulations including federal provision governing capital gains, estate tax, and the earned income tax credit.
• Capability to handle difficult, thorny tax issues in big picture, solutions-oriented environment.

These positions functions within a fast-paced, politically complex environment within which accuracy, timeliness, and communication are essential. Throughout our selection process, we will also be evaluating candidates for behavioral attributes and technical skills to succeed in this environment.

To be considered

Complete your online application in detail and attach the following:

• A cover letter explaining how you meet the qualifications of this position.
• A current resume, highlighting your work experience and education.
• At least three professional references with current telephone numbers.
• A professional writing sample.

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

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 attaching.