Corrections Specialist 3 - INTERNAL Civil Commitment Unit - Tacoma

Corrections Specialist 3 - INTERNAL Community Corrections Division - Section 5 Tacoma, WA [DOC WFSE Monthly Salary Range 60: $6,407.00 to $8,612.00]

• This is an INTERNAL recruitment, open to current, permanent WA State Department of Corrections employees only.
• Our agency offers a free ORCA card to all employees whose permanent duty station is assigned in King, Pierce, and Snohomish counties.

The Mission of Washington State Department of Corrections (DOC) is to improve public safety by positively changing lives.

Our agency is looking to INTERNALLY fill a full-time, permanent Corrections Specialist 3 (CS3) vacancy within the Community Corrections Division. This position works for the Civil Commitment Unit located at 1016 South 28th Street, Tacoma, WA 98409.

As part of a statewide unit for the Civil Commitment Program, this position reports directly to the Civil Commitment Program Manager in the Community Corrections Division. You will complete complex Court-ordered investigations, supervise, and will be considered a program expert for a unique population of sex offenders who have been civilly committed under RCW 71.09 as a Sexually Violent Predator (SVP) at the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) Special Commitment Center (SCC).

Management of residents who have been conditionally released to a Less Restrictive Alternative (LRA) from the SCC requires a multi-agency teamwork approach that involves regular communication with judges, prosecuting attorneys, defense council, sex offender treatment providers, and SCC representatives in one or more counties statewide. This position monitors adherence to Court-ordered and DOC/DSHS/sex offender treatment provider-imposed conditions, holding SCC residents and DOC offenders accountable and collaborating with community stakeholders to assist with re-entry to, and safety in, the community.

Note: Although the shift hours for this position are Monday-Friday, 0800-1700, this position requires stand-by duty beyond the authorized work schedule with compensation.

We are looking for teammates who share our vision of public service and are committed to an equitable and inclusive culture that fosters and inspires excellence, while promoting innovation, engagement, and safety, leading to better outcomes for our community and our agency. If you have a passion for service - review, decide, and apply!

HOW TO APPLY Select the 'Apply' button located at the top right corner of this posting. A complete application packet will include the following:• Online application. You must complete the online application, including the 'Work Experience' section. Your resume will not substitute for this requirement.

• Cover letter. Regarding your interest in this position.
• Resume. Detailed and chronological.
• Three professional-level references. Current and recent supervisors are preferred with a valid phone number and email for each. Review the 'Supplement Information' section for the requirements and definition of. References are contacted after the interview process.
• Unofficial transcripts and/or credential evaluation report (if applicable). If you are using your higher education to meet the minimum requirements, and if your transcripts or credential evaluation report are not on file with DOC HR, you must attach a copy of your unofficial transcripts from an accredited higher education institution or a placeholder document (e.g., an image of your diploma) or if your degree was awarded outside the United States, you must also include a credential evaluation report. Review the 'Supplement Information' section for more information about credential evaluations. [Note: If transcripts are required, the primary Human Resource Consultant (HRC) will request official transcripts if you are selected for hire.]

Applicants wishing to claim Veterans’ preference should attach a copy of your DD-214 (member 4 copy), NGB 22, or signed verification of service letter from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs.

Do not include any personal photos or personally identifiable data within your application packet, such as a driver’s license or social security number.

Incomplete application packages or statements such as ‘see resume’ in lieu of the requested information may disqualify you from the process.• Less Restrictive Alternative (LRA) supervision by managing a caseload of adult sex offenders who are civilly committed as SVPs (sexually violent predators) under Chapter 71.09 RCW or have been unconditionally released from the DSHS Special Commitment Center with DOC supervision remaining.

• Enforce supervision conditions and the law.
• Conduct LRA investigations by completing complex investigations and subsequent reports within court ordered timelines for Superior Court Judges statewide regarding proposed conditional LRA release plans.
• Lead other Corrections Specialists in the Civil Commitment Unit.
• Other duties as assigned and necessary.

To request a copy of the detailed position description, email the assigned recruiter at the end of this posting. Don't forget to refer to the 2026- requisition/job listed above.MINIMUM REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS FOR ALL CASES LISTED BELOW• Must have the ability to carry and properly utilize a department-issued firearm.• Note: Staff who do not qualify for legacy status under the provisions for arming are required to be armed and must be willing and able to possess and use a firearm under federal and state law; maintain firearm qualifications; and successfully complete ongoing training requirements associated with mandatory arming and potential use of force.

• Must possess and maintain a vehicles operator’s license valid in the state of Washington.

• Must be willing to work with individuals with criminal backgrounds and anti-social behaviors and review graphic materials and have the ability to remain objective when dealing with individuals under supervision.

• Must have at least two years of experience with sex offender case management**.

• Must have at least two years of experience providing testimony a minimum of the five annually in Supreme Court specific to sex offender convictions and mental health commitments. Testimony must have included:• Writing a comprehensive violation, status or progress report, or special reports.

• And being crossed examined by defense attorneys, questions by prosecuting attorneys and being able to support your recommendations based on facts presented, and/or providing depositions related to supervision.

• Must have at least one year of experience with Static 99-R or other actual risk assessment, mental disorders/psychiatric diagnosis, state/federal laws, civil proceedings, incarcerated individuals (I/Is) transitioning, treatment and related policies regarding sex offenders I/Is with Axis 1 mental health disorders.

• Must have at least two years of experience working collaboratively with other agencies, providers, forensic evaluators (psychologists/psychiatrists), attorneys, and sexual deviancy and mental health treatment providers.

AND MUST POSSESS ONE OF THE FOLLOWING CASES• Three years' experience as a Community Corrections Officer with the Washington State Department of Corrections.

OR• A bachelor's degree from a college or university whose accreditation is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or the US Department of Education, or foreign equivalent.

• And three years of professional case management** experience in adult or juvenile corrections or closely related field which includes at least three of the following:• Making field visits.
• Preparing written correspondence, reports, and/or documents.
• Assessing cases and making recommendations.
• Referring people to appropriate resources.
• Presenting cases in court or hearings.
• Knowledge of electronic monitoring devices
• Experience determining classification levels and/or requirements.

OR• Equivalent combination of qualifying experience and higher education equaling seven years.

**Professional case management includes activities such as: assessment of risk factors; designing, monitoring and/or facilitating treatment plans; determining and making referrals to resources as appropriate (chemical dependency, substance abuse, family counseling, job training assistance, etc.); maintaining official records and tracking client progress/compliance; and assisting individuals who are unable to independently access support systems or community resources such as those providing food, clothing, or monetary assistance and shelter.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS• One year of case management experience involving individuals who were either civilly committed under RCWs 71.09 at the DSHS Special Commitment Center or similar equivalent law at that time or conditional released from SCC under LRA.

• One year of experience conducting investigations and writing investigation reports.
• One year of experience presenting at hearings in Court or in DOC Hearing process.
• A bachelor’s or master's degree in sociology, social work, psychology, criminology, mental health, or closely related field.

In addition to the above, this position requires demonstrated competency in the following areas (competency may be gained through education, experience, or a combination thereof):• Community Relationships: Participates in the formation and maintenance of successful relationships with criminal justice partners and community resources.

• Observation: Observes and strategizes personal action based on environmental conditions and human behavior.
• Stress Tolerance: Remains calm and rational while handling difficult situations to include, but not limited to, volatile, threatening, or other crisis/emergency situations. Expertly intervenes in response to threats.
• Professional Standards: Knows and applies relevant law, policy, procedure, and practice. Adheres to productivity standards and timelines established by law and policy. Identifies own training needs and proactively seeks training opportunities.
• Adaptability: Incorporates latest information into an existing framework of understanding. Accepts change and supports the Agency through changes in law, policy, and procedure.
• Integrity: Earns others’ trust and respect through consistent honesty and professionalism in all interactions.
• Leadership: Promotes organizational mission and goals and demonstrates how to achieve them.
• Problem Solving: Rapid problem-solving ability. Identifies and analyzes problems; weighs relevance and accuracy of information; generates and evaluates alternative solutions; makes recommendations.
• Communication: Ability to communicate effectively and appropriately when providing and receiving constructive feedback/criticism.
• Initiative: Ability to work and accomplish goals independently; takes ownership and accountability for own performance.

If selected for hire, you may be required to meet the following SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS and CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:• Complete a felony disclosure form prior to employment and submit to a criminal background check.

• Complete and pass the psychological screening (Battery Exam and Psychological Interview/Evaluation).
• Submit to drug testing in accordance with Collective Bargaining Agreement and agency policy.
• Successfully complete, within mandated timeframes, employee orientation and all other mandatory annual, in-service, and other required training.
• Become familiar and comply with all department policies and procedures and Collective Bargaining Agreements, as applicable.
• Successfully complete the Firearms Academy and Control/Impedance Tactics (CIT) training within prescribed timeframes. This requirement includes:• Maintaining eligibility to possess and use a firearm under federal and state laws.
• Maintaining qualifications per department training standards with department-issued firearms and with Intermediate Force options (e.g., OC ‘pepper’ spray or electronic immobilization devices).
• Maintaining CIT qualifications.
• Completing all agency requalification training and an annual criminal history clearance to remain armed.

Vision: Working together for safer communities. Mission: Improving public safety by positively changing lives. Our Commitment: To operate a safe and humane corrections system and partner with others to transform lives for a better Washington.

DOC is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, honorably discharged veteran, veteran status, genetic information, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability or the use of a trained guide dog or service animal by a person with a disability.

Visit Mission & Vision | Washington State Department of Corrections for more information about our agency.

IMPORTANT NOTES• The hiring process and required training for each position within DOC can vary. Click here for more information.

• References: A professional reference is defined as an individual who has been paid to supervise your work and can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job competencies. If you do not have any or sufficient professional references, include non-related professionals, such as educators or other professional associates. Please include a minimum of three professional references with a valid email and phone number for each. Current and recent supervisors are preferred. If you are entering your references in the online application, complete the following fields: • First and Last name

• Title (include their relationship to you, for example: Field Administrator, former supervisor)

• Phone

• Email

• Address Line 1 (list the name of their organization)

• DOC complies with the employment eligibility verification requirements for 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. https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents

• DOC does not use E-Verify: We are not able to extend STEM-Optional Practice Training (OPT). For information, please visit www.uscis.gov.

• Foreign equivalent degrees awarded outside the United States must have a credential evaluation report attached to your application. You may request the required evaluation/documentation from www.wes.org and www.aice-eval.org. Until this documentation is provided, you will not be selected to move forward in the hiring process.

• A background check including criminal record history will be conducted prior to a new hire. 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.

• Pre-employment Drug Test: We are committed to maintaining a drug and alcohol-free work environment, and our employees are expected to comply with all state and federal laws. A pre-employment drug test may be administered as part of the selection process; applicants who test positive for any controlled substances may be disqualified from consideration.

• Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) is an aerosol pepper spray made available as a means of self-defense and/or de-escalation. Applicants with sensitivities or allergies are encouraged to ask about the level of exposure they could expect in this position.

• Salary is based on experience and is determined at the time an offer of employment is made. The salary listed in the job posting includes Steps A-M. Step M is a longevity step and is typically gained six years after being assigned to Step L in your permanent salary range.

• Represented Position: This position is represented by the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE).

• Note: This recruitment may be used to fill other (permanent or non-permanent) positions within 60 days after the listed position(s) have been filled.

Telework Details This position may be allocated for telework for up to one day each week. If approved, work may be performed from your home or another offsite location within the state of Washington using a reliable internet or cellular hot spot service at that time. Employees are expected to perform assigned duties in a safe manner; to take proper care of all state-issued equipment; and maintain confidentiality of all information in possession while working offsite. Employees will be required to commute to a Department of Corrections facility or field office as business requires to potentially include components of the onboarding process. If a dedicated workspace within a DOC facility is not provided, the office will arrange a drop-in area. Details will be provided upon hire.

What We Offer As an employee of the Department of Corrections, your work-life integration is a priority. Washington State employees are offered one of the most inclusive and competitive benefits packages in the nation. Besides a generous retirement plan and comprehensive family insurance for medical, dental, and vision, these perks also may include:• Remote/telework/flexible schedules (depending on position)

• Up to 25 paid vacations days a year, in accordance with the CBA
• 8 hours of paid sick leave per month
• 12 paid holidays each year
• Flex Spending Accounts
• Dependent Care Assistance
• Deferred Compensation
• And more! Visit our benefits page for more information.

Retirement Options• PERS: State employees are members of the Washington Public Employees’ Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer-contributed retirement programs within PERS. For additional information, refer to the Department of Retirement Systems or call 800-547-6657.

• PSERS: Many positions within DOC are covered by the Public Safety Employees' Retirement System (PSERS). If someone moves from a PERS-eligible position to a PSERS-eligible position, they will retire under two different systems/plans. Contact DRS for more information.

For questions about this recruitment, or to request reasonable accommodation in the application process, contact the assigned Talent Acquisition Recruiter at [email protected] or (360) 522-6304. Make sure you refer to the 2026- requisition/job number located at the top of this posting.

For TTY service, please call the Washington Relay Service at 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6388.