Equal Opportunity Investigator
Apply NowCompany: State of Washington
Location: Olympia, WA 98501
Description:
Salary : $66,012.00 - $98,040.00 Annually
Location : Thurston County - Olympia, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Remote Optional
Job Number: 2025-01474
Department: Employment Security Department
Division: Equal Opportunity Office
Opening Date: 02/28/2025
Closing Date: 3/14/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
Description
The ideal candidate is passionate about ensuring equity in the workplace and is an excellent communicator. A strong understanding of state and federal laws and regulations pertaining to employment discrimination and equal opportunity is preferred.
Our Equal Opportunity Office is searching for a kind and compassionate Investigator to join their team. If you're enthusiastic about creating an inclusive workplace and are ready to make a difference, we encourage you to apply today!
Please note that this is an in-training position. Qualifications and salary ranges for both the HRC3 and HRC4 level positions have been listed.
Duties
This position gives you a unique chance to utilize your investigative and equal opportunity consulting skills while working with a compassionate team of professionals. In response to complex and sensitive discrimination complaints, you will investigate and gather necessary information to produce reports with findings and provide recommendations for action. A passion for equity will be essential to your success as you consult with and advise managers on intricate equal opportunity processes and procedures. This position has the choice of full-time in-person work located in Olympia, a hybrid schedule, or full-time telework.
Some of what you will do:
To request a full job description, click here
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
To be hired at the HRC3 level:
(Salary Range: $66,012 - $88,800 annually)
Two (2) years of equal opportunity or equity/diversity/inclusion consulting and/or professional human resource experience.
AND
A Bachelor's degree with focus on social or organizational behavioral sciences, business, human resources, or related field
OR
A combination of education and/or relevant experience that totals six (6) or more years.
To be hired at the HRC4 level:
(Salary Range: $72,924 - $98,040 annually)
Three (3) years of equal opportunity or equity/diversity/inclusion consulting and/or professional human resource experience
AND
A Bachelor's degree with focus on social or organizational behavioral sciences, business, human resources, or related field
OR
A combination of education and/or relevant experience that totals seven (7) or more years.
Desired Qualifications:
Additional Requirements of Employment:
Please submit your Cover Letter, and Resume with your Online Application through the "Add Attachments" field. A resume will not substitute for the "work experience" section of the application or vice versa. Applications with blank fields, or supplemental question responses with comments such as "see attachments" may be considered incomplete.
Please submit ONLY the required documents as noted below and ensure all Personal Identifying Information (PII) such as Social Security numbers etc. are edited out of your materials for privacy.
Supplemental Information
Why work with us?
Ourdrive every decision that we make, determine how we interact with others, and are at the core of who we are. We value Access, Love, Belonging, Equity, and Stewardship. We understand that a work environment that respects your work/life balance is key; that's why many of our positions are eligible for flexible work schedules and teleworking opportunities. Through support, value, and trust, our employees are empowered to grow and develop into their best self.
Opportunity for All
We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, ethnic, racial, religious, sexual orientation, and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, people with disabilities, people over 40 years of age, people with religious beliefs, veterans or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply. The Employment Security Department is an equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. If you are a person needing assistance in the application process, if you need this job announcement in an alternate format, or if you have general questions about this opportunity, please contact Katie Swanson (360)742-8208, or the Talent Acquisition Team If you are having technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application, please contact careershelp@des.wa.gov or (360) 664-1960 or toll free (877) 664-1960, Washington Relay 711.
**This organization participates in E-Verify**
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
In order to be considered for this position, you must include a letter of interest with this applicant packet. Please click below to indicate you have attached the required documentation.
02
Are you a current or former Washington state employee?
03
Please describe your work experience conducting discrimination complaint investigations . If this does not apply, type N/A.
04
Please describe your understanding of state and federal laws and regulations pertaining to employment discrimination and equal opportunity. If you do not have this, type N/A.
05
ESD How did you hear about this job opportunity?
Required Question
Location : Thurston County - Olympia, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Remote Optional
Job Number: 2025-01474
Department: Employment Security Department
Division: Equal Opportunity Office
Opening Date: 02/28/2025
Closing Date: 3/14/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
Description
The ideal candidate is passionate about ensuring equity in the workplace and is an excellent communicator. A strong understanding of state and federal laws and regulations pertaining to employment discrimination and equal opportunity is preferred.
Our Equal Opportunity Office is searching for a kind and compassionate Investigator to join their team. If you're enthusiastic about creating an inclusive workplace and are ready to make a difference, we encourage you to apply today!
Please note that this is an in-training position. Qualifications and salary ranges for both the HRC3 and HRC4 level positions have been listed.
Duties
This position gives you a unique chance to utilize your investigative and equal opportunity consulting skills while working with a compassionate team of professionals. In response to complex and sensitive discrimination complaints, you will investigate and gather necessary information to produce reports with findings and provide recommendations for action. A passion for equity will be essential to your success as you consult with and advise managers on intricate equal opportunity processes and procedures. This position has the choice of full-time in-person work located in Olympia, a hybrid schedule, or full-time telework.
Some of what you will do:
- Investigate employee discrimination complaints, write investigation reports, provide recommendations for action, and maintain records.
- Investigate and draft responses to discrimination complaints filed with external enforcement agencies, on behalf of the State-Level Equal Opportunity (EO) Officer.
- Provide EO and nondiscrimination technical assistance to ESD managers, supervisors, and staff.
- Research and provide interpretation and advice to agency staff and management regarding state and federal EO rules, laws, policies, and procedures.
- Stay current and maintain a good understanding of nondiscrimination and Human Resources policy and procedures.
To request a full job description, click here
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
To be hired at the HRC3 level:
(Salary Range: $66,012 - $88,800 annually)
Two (2) years of equal opportunity or equity/diversity/inclusion consulting and/or professional human resource experience.
AND
A Bachelor's degree with focus on social or organizational behavioral sciences, business, human resources, or related field
OR
A combination of education and/or relevant experience that totals six (6) or more years.
To be hired at the HRC4 level:
(Salary Range: $72,924 - $98,040 annually)
Three (3) years of equal opportunity or equity/diversity/inclusion consulting and/or professional human resource experience
AND
A Bachelor's degree with focus on social or organizational behavioral sciences, business, human resources, or related field
OR
A combination of education and/or relevant experience that totals seven (7) or more years.
Desired Qualifications:
- Strong understanding of state and federal laws and regulations pertaining to employment discrimination and equal opportunity.
- Experience conducting employment discrimination investigations.
Additional Requirements of Employment:
- Must be able to pass an Unemployment Insurance (UI) Claim & Benefit Information Review.
Please submit your Cover Letter, and Resume with your Online Application through the "Add Attachments" field. A resume will not substitute for the "work experience" section of the application or vice versa. Applications with blank fields, or supplemental question responses with comments such as "see attachments" may be considered incomplete.
Please submit ONLY the required documents as noted below and ensure all Personal Identifying Information (PII) such as Social Security numbers etc. are edited out of your materials for privacy.
Supplemental Information
Why work with us?
Ourdrive every decision that we make, determine how we interact with others, and are at the core of who we are. We value Access, Love, Belonging, Equity, and Stewardship. We understand that a work environment that respects your work/life balance is key; that's why many of our positions are eligible for flexible work schedules and teleworking opportunities. Through support, value, and trust, our employees are empowered to grow and develop into their best self.
Opportunity for All
We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, ethnic, racial, religious, sexual orientation, and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, people with disabilities, people over 40 years of age, people with religious beliefs, veterans or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply. The Employment Security Department is an equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. If you are a person needing assistance in the application process, if you need this job announcement in an alternate format, or if you have general questions about this opportunity, please contact Katie Swanson (360)742-8208, or the Talent Acquisition Team If you are having technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application, please contact careershelp@des.wa.gov or (360) 664-1960 or toll free (877) 664-1960, Washington Relay 711.
**This organization participates in E-Verify**
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
In order to be considered for this position, you must include a letter of interest with this applicant packet. Please click below to indicate you have attached the required documentation.
- Yes
- No
02
Are you a current or former Washington state employee?
- Yes
- No
03
Please describe your work experience conducting discrimination complaint investigations . If this does not apply, type N/A.
04
Please describe your understanding of state and federal laws and regulations pertaining to employment discrimination and equal opportunity. If you do not have this, type N/A.
05
ESD How did you hear about this job opportunity?
- WWW.Careers.Wa.Gov
- WorkSource Center or Website (WorkSourceWA.com)
- Washington State Employee Referral
- ESD Employee Referral
- Employment Security Department's job web page: WWW.Esd.Wa.Gov
- Monster
- College/university career fair or website
- VERG
- Craigslist
- CareerBuilder
- Diversity Jobs
- Other
Required Question