• Job Description

  Req#: 5328954
  Salary : $60,132.00 - $80,820.00 Annually
  Location : Thurston County - Lacey, WA
  Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
  Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
  Job Number: 2026-AS0710-03751
  Department: Dept. of Ecology
  Division: Administrative Services
  Opening Date: 05/04/2026
  Closing Date: Continuous
  Salary Information: The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step
  
  Description
  
  Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen
  The Department of Ecology is hiring a Public Disclosure Specialist (Management Analyst 3)within the Administrative Services Division (ASD).
  Location:
  
  • Headquarters Office in Lacey, WA.
  • Upon hire, you must live within a commutable distance from the duty station.
  
  
  Schedule:
  
  • This position is eligible for telework and flexible schedule options.
  • A minimum of one day per week is required in the office.
  • Schedules are dependent upon position needs and are subject to change.
  
  
  Application Timeline:
  
  • Apply by May 11, 2026
  • This position will remain open until filled. The agency reserves the right to make a hire at any time after application review begins. Applications received after the date above may not be considered.
  
  Duties
  Are you ready to take on the increasingly complex arena of public records? Electronic records are booming in volume and complexity. Records today are often being driven by ephemeral, dynamic, or AI generated sources. A myriad of technical challenges have arrived, and we want someone who loves a new challenge. The ideal candidate is a creative thinker, open to new technology and change, and is willing to experiment with fresh ideas to enhance timely record productions. You believe in great customer service and government transparency. You are not afraid to take risks, you are a detailed problem solver, you work well with others, and you can stay focused for long periods on large document sets. The service that you will provide enables Ecology to better serve the public with timely and accurate electronic records.
  
  Join the Department of Ecology's Information Governance team as our Public Disclosure Specialist, where you will play a central role in advancing government transparency in an era defined by artificial intelligence, rapidly expanding data volumes, and increasingly complex public records. This position supports Ecology's mission to protect, preserve, and enhance Washington's environment by ensuring the public has timely access to the information they need to participate meaningfully in environmental decision-making. You will serve as the primary authority for intake, tracking, and coordination of Public Records Act (PRA) requests, providing critical expertise that strengthens public trust and upholds statutory responsibilities.
  
  As AI-enabled systems generate new categories of electronic records, this role leads the agency in navigating novel challenges in records identification, preservation, search, and production. You will leverage advanced eDiscovery tools-including AI-assisted document review-to process large, complex datasets, perform bulk culling of non-responsive material, and ensure defensible, repeatable workflows across programs and regions. Your work directly contributes to risk mitigation, transparency, and compliance by applying expert knowledge of exemptions, privilege, retention, case law, and Ecology's recordkeeping systems.
  
  This is a high-impact, collaborative role that works closely with the Public Records Officer, Information Governance Manager, Public Disclosure Coordinators, the Advance eDiscovery team, and staff across the agency. You will provide training, develop efficient workflows, support quality assurance, and lead statewide reporting and performance measurement, including JLARC metrics. If you are motivated by public service, energized by complex information challenges, and committed to strengthening government transparency in a dynamic technological landscape, we invite you to apply.
  
  What you will do:
  
  • Electronic Intake and coordination of public records requests.
  • Coordination of targeted search criteria with eDiscovery team.
  • Estimation of search volume and production timelines.
  • Targeted culling efforts to systematically remove non-responsive records.
  • Leverage AI assisted tools to assist in document review and volume reduction of AI generated records.
  • Perform focused initial review of large record sets with targeted filters and bulk tags.
  
  
  Qualifications
  For detailed information on how we calculate experience and responses to other frequently asked questions, please visit our
  
  Required Qualifications:
  Seven years of experience and/or education as described below:
  
  • Experience in analyzing policies, laws rules or regulations, formulating recommendations, and coordinating implementation and ongoing evaluations of programs.
    Experience must include demonstrated competence in the following skill sets:
    • Public Records Knowledge & Compliance - Demonstrated ability to understand and apply public records laws, rules, and policies to ensure accurate, complete, and legally compliant responses.
    • Records Search, Collection & Production - Proven ability to plan and conduct records searches, gather information from various sources, and prepare complete and accurate responses.
    • Clear Communication & Collaboration - Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly and work effectively with staff, managers, and external partners to support accurate and timely work outcomes.
    • Problem Solving & Sound Judgment - Demonstrated ability to analyze issues, identify practical solutions, and make well-reasoned decisions that support consistent and defensible practices.
    • Use of eDiscovery and Records Tools - Proven ability to use digital tools and platforms to search, review, redact, and produce records efficiently and accurately.
    • Consulting & Advising Others - Demonstrated ability to provide clear guidance to staff and leadership on public records processes, requirements, and best practices.
    • Data Analysis & Reporting - Demonstrated ability to gather, analyze, and report information and performance metrics to support decision making and process improvements.
    • Reviewing and Protecting Sensitive Information - Ability to evaluate records for confidentiality, exemptions, and privilege to protect sensitive information.
  • Education involving a major study in business administration, public administration, health administration, law, environmental law, or public policy, or related field.
  
  Examples of how to qualify:
  
  • 7 years of experience.
  • 6 years of experience AND 30-59 semester or 45-89 quarter college credits.
  • 5 years of experience AND 60-89 semester or 90-134 quarter college credits (Associate's degree).
  • 4 years of experience AND 90-119 semester or 135-179 quarter college credits.
  • 3 years of experience AND a Bachelor's degree.
  • 1 year of experience AND a Master's degree.
  
  Desired Qualifications:
  
  • AI Enabled eDiscovery Automation - Ability to use advanced eDiscovery and AI tools to streamline how records are reviewed, classified, and prepared, ensuring they are produced accurately, on time, and in compliance with required standards.
  • Process Mapping & Lean Techniques - Ability to visually map workflows and apply Lean or continuous improvement methods to identify waste and streamline processes.
  • Project Coordination - Ability to coordinate multistep or cross team projects, monitor progress, and keep partners informed.
  • Interagency Coordination - Ability to collaborate with external agencies or partner organizations to share best practices or coordinate multiagency responses.
  • Data Quality Assurance - Ability to perform detailed accuracy checks on data inputs and outputs to support reliable metrics and reports.
  
  
  If you are excited about this role and meet the required qualifications, we encourage you to apply. Desired qualifications reflect additional knowledge, skills, or experience that are nice to have but not required. Studies have shown that some applicants, especially women and people of color, are less likely to apply unless they meet every listed qualification. At the Department of Ecology, we are dedicated to building a diverse and authentic workplace centered in belonging, and we welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and unique perspectives.
  Supplemental Information
  Ecology does not use the E-Verify system; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit .
  
  Our Commitment to DEIR
  
  Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Respect (DEIR) are core values central to Ecology's work. We strive to be a workplace where we are esteemed for sharing our authentic identities, while advancing our individual professional goals and collaborating to protect, preserve, and enhance the environment for current and future generations.
  Diversity: We celebrate and appreciate diversity; our unique perspectives and abilities enrich us all and lead to innovative approaches and solutions.
  Equity: We champion equity, recognizing that each of us need different things to thrive.
  Inclusion: We intentionally create and hold space so that we all have meaningful opportunities to participate and contribute to Ecology's work.
  Respect: We treat each other with respect and dignity, acknowledging the inherent worth of our diverse perspectives and lived experiences, even in times of uncertainty and disagreement.
  We believe that DEIRis both a goal and an action. We are on a journey, honoring our shared humanity and taking steps to demonstrate our commitment to a vision where each of us is heard, seen, and valued.
  Application Process
  
  Ecology seeks diverse applicants: We view diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect through a broad lens including race, ethnicity, class, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, immigration status, military background, language, education, life experience, physical disability, neurodiversity, and intersectional identities. Qualified job seekers from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
  How to Apply
  
  Click "Apply" at the top of this page. Complete the entire application, including full work history and responses to all supplemental questions, and attach:
  
  • Cover letter, describing your interest in and qualifications for this position
  • Resume
  
  Because we base our selection on the information you provide, it is in your best interest to complete the application thoroughly. 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 resume" may be considered incomplete.
  
  For detailed application information, please visit our
  Application Attestation: By submitting an application, you are affirming that the information contained in your application and on all attachments is complete and truthful. The state may verify this information, and any false or misleading answers may result in rejection of your application or dismissal if employed.
  Need an Accommodation?
  
  If you need reasonable accommodation during the application and/or screening process, including this job announcement in an alternate format:
  
  • Please contact us at 360-407-6186 or
  • If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 711 or 1-800-833-6384.
  
  Questions?
  
  • For specific questions about the position location options, schedule, or duties, please contact William Falling at
  • If you need assistance applying for this job, are inquiring about the status of your application, would like to request the full position description, or have any other questions, please contact the Recruitment Team at careers@ecy.wa.gov
  
  About the Department of Ecology
  
  As the State of Washington's environmental protection agency, we are deeply committed to protecting, preserving, and enhancing Washington's environment for current and future generations. Joining Ecology means becoming part of a team dedicated to protecting and sustaining healthy land, air, water, and climate in harmony with a strong economy. A career in public service at Ecology allows you to help solve some of the most challenging problems facing our state, while keeping your health and financial security a priority. We combine one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation with a strong commitment to life/work balance. We invest in our employees to create and sustain a working environment that encourages creative leadership, effective resource management, teamwork, professionalism, and accountability.
  Ecology employees may be eligible for the following: Medical/Dental/Vision for employee & dependent(s), Public Employees Retirement System (PERS), , Public Service Loan Forgiveness, Tuition Waiver, Long Term Disability & Life Insurance, Deferred Compensation Programs, Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP), Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA), Employee Assistance Program, Commute Trip Reduction Incentives, Combined Fund Drive, SmartHealth *Click here for more information
  To learn more about Ecology, please visit our website, explore , check out our Strategic Plan, and connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, or our blog.
  Equal Opportunity Employer:The Washington State Department of Ecology is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, veterans, military spouses or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply.
  
  Collective Bargaining: This is a position covered by a bargaining unit for which the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) is the exclusive representative.
  Note: This recruitment may be used to fill other positions of the same job classification across the agency. Once all the position(s) from the recruitment announcement are filled, the recruitment may only be used to fill additional open positions for the next sixty (60) days.
  #LI-Hybrid
  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
  
  How did you hear about this job?
  • Community Based Organization
  • Community / Technical College
  • Ecology Employee
  • Ecology Recruiter
  • Ecology Jobs Page
  • Facebook
  • Job Board
  • Job Fair
  • LinkedIn
  • Newspaper
  • Other State Agency
  • Other Website
  • Professional Association
  • Twitter
  • University Job Board
  • WorkSource
  • Other
  
  02
  
  If you selected Community Based Organization, Community / Technical College, Job Board, Job Fair, LinkedIn Group, Newspaper, Other State Agency, Other Website, Professional Association, University Job Board, WorkSource, or Other, please share which one.
  03
  
  Have you ever worked for the Department of Ecology in any capacity including: Permanent, Non-permanent, Project, Intern, or Volunteer?
  • Yes
  • No
  
  04
  
  How many years of experience do you have in analyzing policies, laws rules or regulations, formulating recommendations, and coordinating implementation and ongoing evaluations of programs?Please include any experience gained through employment, internships, and/or volunteer positions. Note that experience gained from academic coursework, class projects, or other degree requirements is assessed in later questions.
  • One year
  • Two years
  • Three years
  • Four years
  • Five years
  • Six years
  • Seven or more years
  • None of the above
  
  05
  
  What is your level of education?
  • 30-59 semester or 45-89 quarter college credits
  • 60-89 semester or 90-134 quarter college credits (AA degree)
  • 90-119 semester or 135-179 quarter college credits
  • Bachelor's degree
  • Master's degree
  • Ph.D.
  • None of the above
  
  06
  
  If you have college credits or a degree, please list your major(s) or field(s) of study and any degree(s) earned. If you don't have this education, put N/A.
  07
  
  How would you rate your ability to understand and apply public records laws, rules, and policies to ensure accurate and legally compliant responses?
  • None - No exposure to public records laws or compliance requirements.
  • Foundational - Basic awareness of public records requirements; limited exposure to laws or policies.
  • Intermediate - Applies laws and policies with some guidance; developing practical experience ensuring compliance.
  • Advanced - Independently applies public records laws and policies accurately and consistently.
  • Expert - Recognized authority who trains or advises others on complex compliance issues and sets direction for best practices.
  
  08
  
  How would you rate your ability to plan and conduct records searches, gather records from various sources, and prepare accurate and complete responses?
  • None - No experience conducting records searches or collecting responsive materials.
  • Foundational - Basic exposure to search processes; can assist with simple collection tasks.
  • Intermediate - Conducts searches and assembles records with some guidance; building judgment around completeness.
  • Advanced - Independently plans and conducts comprehensive searches and produces accurate, defensible responses.
  • Expert - Designs or leads record search strategies, mentors others, and resolves complex or large scale search challenges.
  
  09
  
  How would you rate your ability to communicate clearly and work effectively with staff, managers, and external partners to support accurate and timely work outcomes?
  • None - No experience communicating or collaborating in this context.
  • Foundational - Basic communication skills; can share straightforward information.
  • Intermediate - Communicates effectively with some support; collaborates productively on routine matters.
  • Advanced - Consistently communicates clearly, builds strong working relationships, and collaborates effectively across teams.
  • Expert - Serves as a communication leader, facilitator, or advisor; excels at managing complex or sensitive interactions.
  
  10
  
  How would you rate your ability to analyze issues, identify solutions, and make well reasoned decisions that support consistent, defensible practices?
  • None - No experience applying analytical or judgment-based decision-making.
  • Foundational - Basic awareness of problem-solving approaches; can assist in identifying straightforward issues.
  • Intermediate - Analyzes issues with some guidance and proposes practical solutions.
  • Advanced - Independently identifies issues, evaluates options, and makes well supported, defensible decisions.
  • Expert - Recognized for strong judgment; mentors others and leads strategic or complex problem resolution.
  
  11
  
  How would you rate your ability to use digital tools and platforms to search, review, redact, and produce records?
  • None - No experience using eDiscovery or digital records tools.
  • Foundational - Basic familiarity; can perform simple tasks with support.
  • Intermediate - Uses tools to search, review, and prepare records with some guidance.
  • Advanced - Confidently uses multiple tools independently for efficient and accurate production.
  • Expert - Serves as a technical resource; optimizes tool usage and mentors others in advanced functions and workflows.
  
  12
  
  How would you rate your ability to provide guidance to staff and leadership on public records processes, requirements, and best practices?
  • None - No experience providing advice or guidance.
  • Foundational - Basic awareness; can share simple information upon request.
  • Intermediate - Provides routine guidance with some support; developing advisory confidence.
  • Advanced - Independently advises others, providing clear, accurate, and consistent guidance.
  • Expert - Serves as a trusted advisor; leads consultations, develops guidance, and mentors others.
  
  13
  
  How would you rate your ability to gather, analyze, and report information or performance metrics to support decision making?
  • None - No experience gathering or analyzing data.
  • Foundational - Basic ability to collect simple data and create straightforward reports.
  • Intermediate - Analyzes data with some guidance and prepares useful summaries or reports.
  • Advanced - Independently performs detailed analysis and produces clear, actionable reports.
  • Expert - Designs metrics, leads analytical projects, and advises others on data driven decision-making.
  
  14
  
  How would you rate your ability to evaluate records for confidentiality, exemptions, and privilege to protect sensitive information?
  • None - No experience reviewing records for sensitive or exempt information.
  • Foundational - Basic understanding of confidentiality concepts; can identify obvious sensitive elements.
  • Intermediate - Reviews records with some guidance to identify exemptions or privileged content.
  • Advanced - Independently applies exemption rules accurately and consistently to protect sensitive information.
  • Expert - Recognized resource for complex exemption reviews; mentors others and sets standards for defensible protection of sensitive information.
  
  15
  
  Please provide additional details to support your responses to questions 7 - 14 above. The following information is needed: specific duties or activities where skills were developed, and the capacity in which they were developed (education, employment, volunteer or lived experience). Make sure your response specifically addresses the qualification below:1. Public Records Knowledge & Compliance - Demonstrated ability to understand and apply public records laws, rules, and policies to ensure accurate, complete, and legally compliant responses.2. Records Search, Collection & Production - Proven ability to plan and conduct records searches, gather information from various sources, and prepare complete and accurate responses.3. Clear Communication & Collaboration - Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly and work effectively with staff, managers, and external partners to support accurate and timely work outcomes.4. Problem Solving & Sound Judgment - Demonstrated ability to analyze issues, identify practical solutions, and make well-reasoned decisions that support consistent and defensible practices.5. Use of eDiscovery and Records Tools - Proven ability to use digital tools and platforms to search, review, redact, and produce records efficiently and accurately.6. Consulting & Advising Others - Demonstrated ability to provide clear guidance to staff and leadership on public records processes, requirements, and best practices.7. Data Analysis & Reporting - Demonstrated ability to gather, analyze, and report information and performance metrics to support decision making and process improvements.8. Reviewing and Protecting Sensitive Information - Ability to evaluate records for confidentiality, exemptions, and privilege to protect sensitive information. An incomplete answer, including "please see resume" may remove you from further consideration.
  16
  
  The State of Washington and the Department of Ecology, play a vital role in fostering a Diverse, Equitable, Inclusive, and Respectful (DEIR) workplace and contributing to equitable outcomes for the communities we serve. We view DEIR through a broad lens including: race, ethnicity, class, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, immigration status, military background, language, education, life experience, physical disability, neurodiversity, and intersectional identities. We believe it is everyone's job to contribute to a DEIR workplace. What experiences have you had working with people whose backgrounds are very different from your own? What impact did those experiences have on how you worked?
  17
  
  I understand that Ecology does not use the E-Verify system and is unable to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT).
  • Yes
  • No
  
  Required Question

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