• Job Description

  Req#: 5309196
  Salary: $5,011.00 - $6,735.00 Monthly
  Location : Thurston County - Olympia, WA
  Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
  Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
  Job Number: 2026-03212
  Department: Dept. of Agriculture
  Division: Food Safety and Consumer Services - Food Safety
  Opening Date: 04/28/2026
  Closing Date: 5/28/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
  
  Description
  The first review of applications is scheduled for the week of May 6, 2026, in order to be considered, please submit your application on or before May 5, 2026. The agency reserves the right to make a hire any time after the initial screening date.
  AGRICULTURE - A Cornerstone of Washington's Economy
  The Washington State Department of Agriculture has been serving the state for more than 100 years. Through service, regulation, and advocacy, we keep agriculture viable and vital in Washington State, while protecting consumers, public health, and the environment. We work extensively with farmers and ranchers, but our responsibilities - from ensuring food safety to environmental protection - touch the lives of millions of people locally, nationally, and abroad.
  The agency includes 780 employees approximately and grows close to 1,000 employees at the peak of seasonal work. To learn more and view additional openings, please visit our Employment Page.
  The Food Safety & Consumer Services (FSCS) Division is one of the five divisions in the Washington State Department of Agriculture. The FSCS Division serves consumers and stakeholders in the state of Washington by assuring the availability, safety, and integrity of the state's human and animal food supply. The division is made up of approximately 100+ FTEs through five statewide programs, including: Animal Feed, FSCS Laboratory, Food Safety, Organic, and Produce Safety. We also house the Rapid Response Team that manages food and feed emergency responses.
  
  If you process, manufacture, store or handle any food or dairy products for wholesale distribution, or if your custom slaughter or custom cut meat, you need to contact the Washington State Department of Agriculture Food Safety Program for licensing and/or inspection information.
  
  The Opportunity
  The Food Safety Program performs a variety of public health investigations in cooperation with county, state health and federal food agencies to protect the public health. Our dual mission is to protect and reduce the risk to public health by assuring the safety of the State's food supply while facilitating the movement of Washington agricultural products in domestic and international markets. We do this by:
  
  • Inspecting and analyzing food products and food processing and handling; inspecting food storage establishments and practices.
  • Inspecting dairy farms and plants.
  • inspecting eggs for quality and weight standards, set and enforce sanitary standards for egg graders.
  • Inspecting custom farm slaughterers, custom meat facilities.
  • Licensing dairy technicians.
  • Issuing Export Certificates of Sanitation and Free Sale for food products manufactured in Washington State.
  • Issuing licensing for Direct Sellers.
  • Issuing voluntary Hemp Extract Facility Certification.
  
  Food businesses operating in the State of Washington that process and/or warehouse manufactured food products for distribution in commerce and resale by other food businesses must follow safe food handling and/or processing practices to protect the public from illness or injury caused by food consumed. Washington State laws, Title 21 Code of Federal Regulations adopted by WSDA, and WSDA regulations detail the specific food safety requirements. The vast majority of manufactured food firms licensed by WSDA successfully implement the required practices and maintain substantial compliance for operating in Washington State. Food Safety Compliance Specialists conduct food safety inspections of food facilities to verify the firm is operating in substantial compliance with the required laws and regulations.
  This position reports directly to the Food Safety Program Manager and supports the program and agency by recruiting, developing and supervising the Administrative Team, developing and implementing business processes and analyzing and summarizing program performance metrics to allow for long range goals to be met.
  
  This position facilitates the movement of Washington State food and agricultural products in domestic and international markets by ensuring adequate regulatory oversight is occurring. This position provides technical expertise to internal and external stakeholders for the program's business processes, which span the range from collection of assessments to application and issuance of a license, permit, endorsement, certification and
  their renewal processes. This position identifies and researches difficult licensing and business process issues, summarizes results and formulates recommendations, and interacts with customers to solve complex problems.
  
  This position develops, revises, implements, interprets, and administers program policies, procedures and sets standards for existing and new program activities impacting outside entities, industries or members of the public, and acts as an administrator of the program's inspection and licensing data system organizational flow: Business Process Supervisor>Food Safety Program Manager> Assistant Director of Agriculture> Director of Agriculture
  Important Notes
  WSDA is recruiting for a full-time permanent Management Analyst 3 position within the Food Safety and Consumer Services Division. This position is located in Olympia, Washington. This is a non-represented position.
  
  The base pay offered will take into account internal equity and may vary depending on the preferred candidate's job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The typical starting salary range for this position is: Range 54 Step A $5,011 - Step L $6,576 annually.
  
  Duties
  
  What to Expect
  
  Some of the various responsibilities within this role:
  
  Business Process Oversight and Improvement
  • Analyze and develop process improvement opportunities within the business processes.
  • Develop action plans to drive for process improvement to achieve goals and the collection and analysis of information.
  • Assist higher level staff in preparing complex plans, summaries or special reports.
  • Develop, revise, implement, interpret, and administer program policies, procedures and set standards for existing and new program activities impacting outside entities, industries or members of the public.
  • Ensure compliance with the operational policies and standards and strive for consistency.
  • Monitor program performance against strategic plans and objectives, and coordinate the implementation of program activities to meet these goals.
  • Oversee small to medium projects which impact multiple programs, departments or regulatory jurisdictions.
  • Provide support for compliance and enforcement activities.
  • Monitor program resources and provide updates to management when needed.
  • Communicate with internal and external stakeholders.
  • Identify and develop queries to accurately extract data from multiple data sources including, but not limited to Department of Licensing, Department of Revenue and WSDA data systems.
  Supervise the Administrative Team
  • Evaluate and coordinate staffing needs, assign work to meet project completion goals and overall program mission.
  • Provide a continuous review of personnel activity in relation to program goals and objectives. Provide timely feedback to staff.
  • Ensure adequate team resources are dedicated to support Compliance and Enforcement efforts.
  • Develop and deliver business process and procedure training to ensure program staff comply with operational requirements.
  • Facilitate the program's recruitment efforts for field and office staff. Act as an administrative lead during onboarding of new hire
    employees.
  • Provide logistical support and coordination for the program's in person and virtual meetings and training.
  • Serve as program supply & procurement specialist. Work with Division Coordinator regarding updates, change, and responsibilities.
  Timekeeping and Fiscal Support
  • Act as the program's contact for timekeeping to oversee program staff's submission of information into the timekeeping system and to Payroll office.
  • Ensure accuracy with time approvals, leave balance and PFML/FMLA use for program staff Compile, submit and track quarterly contract billing for FDA inspections in conjunction with the Contract Coordinator.
  • Assist program management to monitor expenditure control and have purchasing authority for program support. This includes, but is not limited to, oversight on invoice processing, supply ordering, inventory tracking, registration payments, etc.
  • Collaborate and support other division admin, including the division coordinator, in division or program specific tasks/projects.
  
  Qualifications
  
  Who should apply?
  
  Professionals with:
  
  • Bachelor's degree in business administration, public administration, law, public health, health administration, or a related field.
  • Three (3) years experience conducting research and analyzing policies, laws, rules, or regulations or comparable combination of graduate education and experience.
  • One (1) year of supervisory, lead, or mentorship experience.
  
  OR
  
  
  • Equivalent experience may substitute year for year for degree.
  
  Preferred/Desired Qualifications:
  
  • Experience as a WA State Notary Public
  
  Supplemental Information
  Employee Benefits
  
  
  • A healthy work/life balance, which may include flexible work schedules, and teleworking.
  • WSDA provides an excellent benefits package beyond traditional benefits. State employment offers Dependent Care Assistance, Flexible Spending Accounts, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, Tuition Waiver, Deferred Compensation, Employee Recognition Leave; for more information.
  • 12 paid
  • All Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) required will be provided by the agency.
  • Commute Trip Reduction Program.
  
  For more information about the Washington State Department of Agriculture, visit us at
  How to apply:
  You must complete your careers.wa.gov profile and answer the supplemental questions. In addition to completing the online application, and supplemental questions applicants must attach the following documents to their profile to be considered for this position.
  • A resume detailing experience and education
  
  • A cover letter describing how you meet the specific qualifications for this position
  
  • Three professional references
  Applications with comments "see attachments" will be considered incomplete.
  By submitting these materials, you are indicating that all information is true and correct. The state may verify information. Any untruthful or misleading information is cause for removal from the applicant pool or dismissal if employed.
  The initial screening will be solely based on the contents and completeness of your application and the materials submitted. All information may be verified, and documentation may be required. Applications received via e-mail will not be accepted in lieu of applying through the state's on-line recruitment system.
  Prior to a new appointment into the Department of Agriculture, 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.
  Work Authorization
  
  
  • Candidates who are offered a job with WSDA must possess work authorization that does not require sponsorship by the employer for a visa now or in the future;
  • WSDA 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.
  • WSDA does not use E-Verify; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM-Optional Practice Training (OPT). For information, please visit
  • Persons legally authorized to work in the U.S. under federal law, including Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals recipients, are eligible for employment unless prohibited by other state or federal law.
  
  Equity at WSDA
  The Department of Agriculture recognizes, appreciates, supports, embraces, and respects all cultural identities and backgrounds while we collaborate in authentic ways. We hire amazing people that share in the commitment to our Pro-Equity Anti-Racist (PEAR) strategic plan, our Healthy Environment for All (HEAL) Act implementation plan, and our unique needs and desires for belonging, respect, and inclusion. We value the growth and development of our team members by providing equitable access to resources and opportunities for continuous learning, improvement, and advancement.
  
  We strive to hire, cultivate, and retain a productive and dedicated workforce that reflects the communities we serve while we are committed to a workplace that celebrates our differences and supports equal opportunity employment and inclusion regardless of race, creed, color, national origin, citizenship or immigration status, marital status, families with children (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sex, sexual orientation, gender identity diversity, age, status as a protected veteran, honorably discharged veteran or military status, status as an individual with the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with disabilities or other applicable legally protected characteristics. We also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories, consistent with applicable federal, state, and local laws.
  Veteran's Preference: Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications and wish to claim Veteran's Preference MUST attach a copy of their DD214, or other verification of military service. Please blackout any personally identifiable data such as social security numbers. For additional information on Veteran's Preference and guidance on how to determine if you are eligible,
  
  Persons with a disability, who need assistance with their application or need this announcement in an alternative format, may call 664-1960 or toll free (877) 664-1960. TTY users should first call 711 to access the Washington Relay Service.
  Contact Us
  Should you have any questions regarding this position or the online application, contact the Human Resource Office at
  
  If you are having technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application, please call NEOGOV toll-free at (855) 524-5627 or email
  The Human Resources Division may use referrals from this recruitment to help fill future similar vacancies for up to six months.
  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, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) 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 01-07-2026
  01
  
  Your preferred name:
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  Your pronoun(s):
  03
  
  Are you legally authorized to work in the United States?
  • Yes
  • No
  
  04
  
  Will you now or in the future require sponsorship for employment visa status?
  • Yes
  • No
  
  05
  
  What was the last new skill you learned or area of knowledge you developed? What difference did it make? Share in your own words (150 words or less, not AI generated).
  06
  
  Describe a time you learned of the needs of a colleague or customer and took initiative to address them. What was the situation, what did you do, and what was the result? Share in your own words (150 words or less, not AI generated).
  07
  
  How did you hear about this opportunity?
  08
  
  To be considered for this position you must attach a resume, cover letter, and three professional references. Have you attached or included these documents to your application?
  • Yes
  • No
  
  09
  
  Do you have a bachelor's degree in business administration, public administration, law, public health, health administration, or a related field?
  • Yes
  • No
  • No, but I have four (4) years of experience conducting complex food safety inspections as a Food Safety Compliance Specialist, or equivalent, within WSDA.
  
  10
  
  Do you have three (3) years of experience conducting research and analyzing policies, laws, rules, or regulations or comparable combination of graduate education and experience?
  • Yes
  • No
  
  Required Question

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