Privacy Program Specialist - Program Specialist 4

Are you committed to safeguarding sensitive information and would you thrive in a role focused on guiding the Department of Retirement Systems (DRS) as we build our data protection program and maintain the hard-earned trust of the Washington State public employees we serve? Would you enjoy serving as a privacy subject matter expert focused on elevating agency awareness of privacy best practices? And, is working in a cooperative culture of continuous improvement, learning, and work-life balance important to you? If your answer is Yes, the role as the Privacy Program Specialist - Program Specialist 4 could be the perfect opportunity for you!

This recruitment will remain open until filled. Applicants who apply prior to the end of the day on Sunday, March 16, 2025, will get first consideration. The hiring manager reserves the right to make a hiring decision at any time during the recruitment process.

The Opportunity:
Reporting to the Risk Management Director, you will help shape the agency's privacy program. In this collaborative role you will be responsible for furthering the goals, maturation, and management of the agency's organization-wide privacy program in alignment with the WaTech Office of Privacy and Data Protection (OPDP) Privacy Framework.

Some of what you'll do includes:

• Interpreting, applying, and administering Washington (WA) state laws and principles governing privacy and the DRS data that is subject to those requirements.
• Acting as a subject matter expert on the agency's privacy risks and how the agency manages these risks.
• Partnering with DRS divisions to assess and evaluate the current agency privacy risks and mitigation practices with special attention to systems that contain personally identifiable information (PII).
• Analyzing the agency-assessment results against WA state laws and the OPDP Privacy Framework and Principles to identify next steps for improvement.
• Using the assessment results, developing a maturity model to recommend the timing of future maturity efforts.
• Annual review and update of the agency's privacy notice.
• Review new or updated data sharing agreements for consistency and alignment with privacy laws and principles and offer recommendations.
• Leads required OPDP Privacy Threat Assessments (PTA) and/or Privacy Impact Analysis (PIA).
• Supports the DRS Suspicious Account Activity Reviews through Member account research, analysis and coordination with Division Business Units.
• Supports the DRS Internal Control Officer through research, analysis and the coordination of internal control assessment activities.
• Strengthening agency awareness of privacy risks through designing and administering various forms of publications and trainings.

What we're looking for (required qualifications):

Demonstrated proficiency and proven experience in the following:

• Researching and analyzing processes, policies, laws, rules, or regulations and applying the information to advise on privacy questions, or to improve a privacy business process, and/or related internal controls.
• Collecting verbal and written information to understand an organization's privacy practices, identify privacy risks, perform root cause analysis, and identity gaps in controls.
• Using written data, and a detailed understanding of a process, to recommend process and control improvements.
• Protecting customers' personal information and other agency information.
• Creating a culture where differing perspectives are valued, where risks are opportunities, and where process improvement is valued as a continuous improvement exercise.

The above experience is typically gained from a minimum of three (3) years of full-time professional experience. Please note, relevant lived experience which may include volunteer or other personal experience, may contribute to meeting these qualifications.

Proven experience maintaining and maturing an organization-wide government privacy program and/or advising on agency privacy practices and recommending improvement opportunities is highly desired.

• Demonstrated experience and proficiency in the use of Microsoft Office products, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, and SharePoint (version 2016 or newer); and

• Demonstrated proficiency in the following competency areas:

Analysis
Studies and reviews documents and information closely; readily identifies information that is not pertinent and understands when additional or verifying data is needed. Uses data and information in a clear and rational thought process to assess and understand issues, evaluate options, form accurate conclusions, and make recommendations/decisions.

Customer Focus
Dedicated to meeting the expectations and requirements of customers. Delivers high quality services and products. Establishes and maintains effective customer relationships. Committed to continuous improvement and always acts with the customer in mind.

Problem Solving
Analyzes problem to identify the root cause(s). Evaluates possible courses of action; uses reason, logic, and creativity to reach conclusions. Develops timely, effective solutions that take into consideration alternatives, risks, and consequences in relation to organizational goals, resources, and constraints.

Communication
Effectively conveys information in writing and through the spoken word, using language that is appropriate to both the complexity of the topic and the knowledge and understanding of the audience. Sees communication as a vital component of high performing teams.

Judgment
Displays balanced thinking that combines data-based analysis, experience, and perspective while also considering decision impacts. Effectively weighs alternatives and makes decisions that incorporate facts, opinions, and other relevant information.

Dependability
Shows commitment, dedication, and accountability in work. Works effectively and fulfills commitments made to customers, peers, and team members. Is reliable in punctuality and attendance; can be counted on to get things done.

Commitment to Diversity
Recognizes the value of diversity. Helps create an environment that embraces and supports diversity, equity and inclusion.

Be sure to read this entire section - We promise, it'll be helpful!

To be considered for this position, please be sure to attach the following to your online application:

• A cover letter clearly describing how your experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities align with the job duties and qualifications of this position; and
• A chronological resume outlining your experience specific to the requirements for this position.

How to Apply: Interested applicants who meet the qualifications and competencies in this announcement are encouraged to apply. Be sure to complete all sections of the on-line application and answer all supplemental questions. The work history section of the on-line application should be completed fully. Application fields that say "see resume/attachment" will not be considered. Only those applicants whose background and experience most closely matches the desirable qualifications and competencies of this position will be considered for this opportunity.

References, Personnel File Review, and Background Checks

• If you are the preferred candidate for this position, a professional reference from your current or most recent supervisor will be required;
• If you are current or recent state employee, we will also review your personnel file as part of our selection process;
• A job offer is contingent upon completion of a background check that includes a criminal record review.

Work Authorization

• Candidates who are offered a job with DRS must possess work authorization that does not require sponsorship by the employer for a visa now or in the future;
• DRS 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.
• DRS does not use E-Verify; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM-Optional Practice Training (OPT). For information, please visitwww.uscis.gov.
  

DRS offers a generous benefits package that includes membership in the Public Employees Retirement System; health, dental and vision coverage and participation in the Deferred Compensation Program. Also, as a public service employee you may also be eligible for student loan forgiveness. (See the Benefits tab at the top of this post for more information).

Other perks include:

• Flexible work schedules
• Infants at Work Program
• Tuition reimbursement
• Opportunities for professional growth
• Access to LinkedIn Learning
• Commitment to team member safety and wellness
• Community involvement and charitable giving opportunities
• Commute Trip Reduction Program
• Free Parking & and EV Chargers available