L&I DOSH Ergonomist 4

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Company: State of Washington

Location: Washington, DC 20011

Description:

Salary : $84,516.00 - $113,712.00 Annually
Location : Multiple Locations - Western Washington, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 2025-00880
Department: Dept. of Labor & Industries
Division: DOSH - Compliance
Opening Date: 02/05/2025
Closing Date: 2/19/2025 11:59 PM Pacific

Description
Our Mission: Keep Washington Safe and Working!

Our Values: Customer Focus, One L&I, Respect, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Learning and Growth, Reliability

L&I's Division of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) by developing and enforcing rules that protect workers from hazardous job conditions. Our inspectors visit about 5,000 workplaces each year and cite businesses that violate health and safety rules.

DOSH is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Ergonomist 4 to join our dynamic team. As an Ergonomist 4 specializing in Musculoskeletal Disorders you will directly support the mission to "Keep Washington safe and working" by completing full-scale ergonomics hazard evaluations for DOSH Compliance safety and health investigators, and writing comprehensive reports for all inspections and investigations where work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) could result from a hazard, operation, or process on the job. These evaluations may be due to actual injury/illness, complaints, referrals, or other means, to include scheduled inspections or any inspection where a Compliance investigator has identified a potential ergonomics hazard that may necessitate an evaluation or assessment.

That's when we call in the expert. Accompanying a DOSH Compliance Safety & Health Officer, the Ergonomist 4 will conduct complete on-site ergonomics evaluations to assess presence and degree of hazards so that enforcement actions can be taken to protect workers from work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). Then generate a detailed report summarizing the evaluation and recommend citations.

In addition, the Ergonomist 4 reviews and evaluates all employer responses to ergonomics-related phone/fax investigations. This is to determine if the employer has adequately addressed the hazard, or whether or not an on-site investigation is needed while collaborating and networking with a team of DOSH Ergonomists!

For this position, telework is permitted full time with the requirement to report to the office one day per week. In addition, this position will require travel throughout the state. The assigned duty station can be located at any of our Western WA locations up and down the I-5 corridor from Everett to Kelso, Wa.

Employees assigned to a permanent duty station in King County (Region 2) will receive 5% Premium Pay calculated from their base salary.

Driving is required as part of this job. When a position has a driving requirement, the incumbent must drive in order to perform the duties of their position. Therefore, they must use a state-issued vehicle, motor pool vehicle, or personally owned vehicle (POV)in order to perform the duties and responsibilities of their position.

Learn more about DOSH here:

See all of our current L&I DOSH position openings here:

Research suggests that women and people of color are less likely to apply unless they are confident they meet 100% of the listed qualifications. We strongly encourage all interested individuals to apply, and allow us to evaluate your combination of knowledge, skills, and abilities demonstrated using an intentional equity lens.

Duties
Some of what you'll do:
  • Conduct complete on-site ergonomics evaluations to assess presence and degree of hazards so that enforcement actions can be taken to protect workers from work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs)
  • Review employer programs and participate in management and employee interviews.
  • Review employers' workers' compensation data and OSHA 300 logs for patterns of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs).
  • Evaluate entire worksites or specific jobs for risk factors that can lead to WMSDs.
  • Observe and take photos and videos of work to look for WMSD risk factors.
  • Measure forces, weights, work pace, and other relevant information related to job demands.
  • Compare risk factors observed with types of WMSDs to establish association.
  • Use objective analysis tools and experience to determine if hazards are present.
  • Research and identify feasible means of abatement for WMSD hazards.
  • Communicate the results of the evaluation and recommend abatement solutions to the employer and Compliance Investigator.
  • Participate in meetings to decide if a citation is appropriate.
  • Attend all reviews done by Compliance Operations where ergonomic-related hazards have been addressed, especially for those containing ergonomics-related violations.
  • Serve as a subject matter expert during appeals and settlement processes.
  • Testify on behalf of the Department, to include defending the ergonomics evaluations accomplished and the evidence collected during visits.
  • Create a report of findings and recommendations for the employer and inspection file.
  • Collaborate with other ergonomists, DOSH, and Industrial Insurance staff.
  • Use workers' compensation data and information from epidemiological and other ergonomics research to identify hazards in specific industries or types of work.
  • And much more!

Qualifications
REQUIRED:
  • Master's Degree in Ergonomics or related field, or equivalent work experience (6 total years combined related education and/or experience)
  • Basic knowledge and experience in the comprehensive practice of ergonomics.
  • Knowledge and ability to evaluate ergonomics programs.
  • Ability to identify hazards for work-related musculoskeletal disorders and recommend solutions in a variety of industries.
  • Able to take a lead role in organizing projects involving stakeholders from employer and employee groups, healthcare, and other L&I staff.
  • A valid, unrestricted driver license and may not have convictions for driving under the influence or driving offense that endangered or harmed others within the past 7 years.

What we are also looking for in an ideal candidate:
  • Makes timely decisions based on the best information available. Can identify and describe the factors that were considered in making a decision based on limited information. Solves problems effectively.
  • Uses data and information to assess and understand issues, evaluate options, form conclusions, create assignments, and make decisions.
  • Effectively teaches staff to identify, collect, organize, and document data and information in ways that make the information most useful for subsequent assessments, analysis, abatement, and investigation.
  • Basic knowledge of principles and techniques of risk management and risk classification.
  • Expresses ideas and information through the verbal and written word using language that is appropriate to both the complexity of the topic and the knowledge and understanding of the audience; speaks English clearly.
  • Competent in the use of personal computers, including software such as word processing, PowerPoint, Excel and other programs, to produce timely and accurate work products that fully satisfy the demands of the assignment.

Supplemental Information
Things You Need To Know

State employees who meet the qualifications will become eligible for a generous retirement package at the end of the employee's career. Click on the "Benefits" tab to learn more.

At L&I, your voice matters. In addition, L&I is a diverse state agency dedicated to the safety and health and security of Washington's 3.3 million workers. Take a look at this and learn more about why L&I is an employer of choice.

Application process

We will contact the top candidates directly to interview for this position. Because we base the selection on information provided by you, it is in your best interest to identify the knowledge, skills, and abilities that address the mandatory and desirable qualifications described in the announcement.

Please include the following documents with your application:
  • A describing specific qualifications.
  • A current detailing applicable experience and education.
  • A list of at least three professional references with current telephone numbers.

  • Background Check Notice:

    Prior to a placement in this position, a background check, including criminal history record will be conducted. Information from your background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining your eligibility to perform the requirements of the position.

    Other information
    • For positions requiring travel, you must have a valid unrestricted driver's license and have insurance if driving a privately owned vehicle on state business.
    • This position is represented bytheWashington Federation of State Employees (WFSE).
    • Candidates who are offered a job with L&I must possess work authorization that does not require sponsorship by the employer for a visa now or in the future.
    • The Department of Labor & Industries 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.
    • Please note: L&I may use this announcement to fill multiple permanent and/or non-permanent positions.

    Did You Know?

    Washington is to live, play, and work, according to U.S. News (2021). Join the L&I team and enjoy all the Evergreen State has to offer.

    In addition to offering a positive balance between life and work, L&I provides one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation. We also believe your voice matters. We value our employees and their work-life balance by encouraging flexible schedules. L&I is a diverse state agency dedicated to the safety and health and security of Washington's 3 million workers.

    Veterans Preference

    Applicants wishing to claim Veterans Preference should attach to their application a copy of their DD-214 (Member 4 copy), NGB 22, or signed verification of service letter from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs. Please blackout any personally identifiable data such as Social Security numbers. For further information, contact L&I's

    Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Employer

    L&I employees come from all walks of life. We strive to hire great people from a wide variety of backgrounds. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

    We believe in the importance of recognizing the value each of us contribute to the success of the agency mission. Having a diverse workforce is this agency's greatest resource of strength and knowledge. It is through the combination of talents and abilities that we can pursue finding effective measures to provide the best customer service. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace for everyone and we strongly mean everyone.

    The State of Washington is an equal opportunity employer. Persons with a disability who need accommodation in the application process or testing process, or those needing this announcement in an alternative format, may call 360-902-5700. TTY users should first call 711 to access the Washington Relay Service.

    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 award-winning diverse and inclusive organization.

    For more Information

    If you have any questions regarding this job posting, program, or the agency, please contact the recruiter, Lori Hensin (she/her/hers) 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

    How did you hear about this job opportunity?
    • www.careers.wa.gov
    • WorkSource Center or Website (WorkSourceWA.com)
    • L&I Talent Management Consultant
    • L&I Employee
    • Professional/Personal Network
    • Monster
    • College/university website/career fair
    • LinkedIn
    • Facebook
    • VERG
    • Craigslist
    • Indeed
    • Twitter
    • Job Fair (Military)
    • Career Fair
    • EHS Careers
    • American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA)
    • Radio Advertisement
    • Newspaper/Magazine
    • L&I Website
    • Other

    02

    If you indicated "Other" please specify where you heard about this position.
    03

    Will you now or in the future require sponsorship for an immigration-related employment benefit?
    • Yes
    • No

    04

    PLEASE READ THE BELOW AND TYPE YOUR INITIALS IN RESPONSE TO ACKNOWLEDGE THAT YOU HAVE READ AND UNDERSTAND THESE STATEMENTS. I will NOT attach or place any medical information (vaccination status included) within the application, resume, or cover letter. If I do, I understand that it will be rejected and I may be provided an opportunity to apply again without including my confidential health information, while the posting is still open and applications are being accepted.
    I understand that my vaccination status is not needed.
    I will not share my medical information (vaccination status included) with hiring managers or interview panels.
    05

    Please define how you meet the required qualifications:
    • Masters Degree in Ergonomics or related field
    • Total of six(6) years combined education and/or experience in ergonomics

    06

    Tell us about your knowledge and experience in the practice of ergonomics.
    07

    Tell us about your experience in ergonomic evaluations and/or ergonomic programs.
    08

    What types of industries have you experienced in relation to ergonomics?
    09

    Please tell us about what instrumentation and analysis tools you have used in regards to ergonomics. If no experience with such tools please respond with 'N/A'.
    Required Question

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