Fiscal Analyst 1

Do you enjoy working in a diverse and inclusive team environment that is dedicated to serving customers and ensuring they receive the best service possible? Are you outgoing, able to problem solve, and adeptly able to manage a large volume of incoming and outgoing calls with patience and care? Do you possess a strong desire to learn and understand complex fiscal information and the ability to communicate it to various parties with clarity and compassion? If this sounds like you, the role of Fiscal Analyst 1 at the Department of Retirement Systems may be the perfect opportunity for you!

The Opportunity: 

This recruitment is open until filled. Applications received for this job opportunity will be reviewed immediately, so your prompt response is encouraged. The hiring manager reserves the right to make a hiring decision at any time during the recruitment process.

Working in a professional in-office work environment, you will be responsible for ensuring all agency reissued pension and vendor payments are processed in timely manner and that ACH account information is successfully pre-noted and maintained for our 230,000 annuitants. You will research and investigate returned, misdirected, or uncashed warrants and returned and misdirected electronic funds transfers (EFTs). You will communicate frequently with the Office of the State Treasurer to manage payments and the Department of Enterprise Services coordinating warrant pulls and special mailings. 

Some of what you'll do includes:

• Coordinate the review and approval of agency warrant and EFT registers, fund summaries, ACH transmittals, and journal vouchers associated with weekly and monthly payment processes.

• Facilitate agency payments, inputting data into the state's Treasury Management System, processing automated JVs, review and reconcile the Unbalanced In Process.

• Analyze and correct discrepancies by preparing manual JVs and uploading them into the Agency Financial Reporting System.

• Researching and investigating returned, misdirected, or uncashed warrants and EFTs.

• Make contact with payees and financial institutions relating to research of unsuccessful agency payments, primarily by phone.

• Serve as the agency liaison with financial institutions, researching misdirected or returned EFTs and provide warrant verification.

• Coordinate the issuance and receipt of affidavits from customers and verify information for accuracy.

• Provide support, training, and back up coverage as needed for Lost Warrant Desk.

The work schedule for this position is Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. All work must be performed on site at the DRS office building in Tumwater, Washington. There is no telework option for this position.

What we're looking for:

• Demonstrated professional general accounting experience performing duties such as reconciliations, preparing journal vouchers, analyzing and interpreting agency accounting and financial records and reports, and researching and correcting discrepancies. This experience is typically earned through at least one year of professional full-time accounting experience. An associate's degree in accounting may substitute for experience;

• Experience working in a Washington state agency and using the Agency Financial Reporting System (AFRS) and its processes is highly desirable;

• Proven customer service experience including active listening to identify needs or issues, providing options, and communicating complex fiscally oriented information in person and over the telephone to a variety of audiences. This experience is typically gained through one-year of full-time professional experience;

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

• Demonstrated proficiency using a 10-key calculator;

• Proven ability to effectively manage and respond to frequent changes in workload and priorities; and

• Demonstrated proficiency in the following competency areas:

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Ethics, Integrity, Values, and Trust

Earns the trust, respect, and confidence of others through consistent honesty, forthrightness, and professionalism in all interactions. Keeps confidence and admits mistakes. Is seen as being direct and truthful in all situations. Displays extremely high standards of integrity and ethical conduct and models the behaviors expected of others in the organization.

Commitment to Diversity

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

Why Work for DRS?

At DRS, we are one team. We administer eight public retirement systems, 15 retirement plans, and the Deferred Compensation Program, and we serve over 930,000 current and former public employees in Washington. Our customers include fire fighters, teachers and school employees, state and local government employees, and public safety and law enforcement officers. 

Regardless of what our specific duties may be, we are all dedicated to one purpose: ensuring our members have the information, tools, expertise and services that ensure they receive the retirement benefits earned while in public service. We foster a diverse and inclusive environment where team members are fully engaged and supported in meeting (and exceeding) our customers' expectations. All DRS leaders are focused on providing the coaching, mentoring, resources and support that team members need to be successful.

At DRS, team members enjoy: 

• A modern work environment

• Free parking

• Commute Trip Reduction Program

• Infants at Work Program

• Tuition reimbursement

• Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness

• Opportunities for professional growth

• Subscription to LinkedIn Learning

• Commitment to team member safety and wellness

• Community involvement/charitable giving

How to Apply:

Interested applicants who meet the qualifications and competencies in this announcement are encouraged to apply for this opportunity.

Please be sure to complete all sections of the electronic application and answer all supplemental questions. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of completing the work history section of the application template. Applications with comments "see attachments" will be considered incomplete. Only those applicants whose background and experience most closely matches the desirable qualifications and competencies of this position will be considered for this opportunity.

To be considered, please attach the following to your online application: 

• A cover letter clearly describing how your knowledge, skills and abilities align with the job duties and qualifications of this position; and 

• A chronological resume outlining your experience to-date.

Important Information:

• 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 a 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; 

• 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.

Veteran's Preference: Applicants wishing to claim Veteran's Preference should attach a copy of their DD214 (Member 4 copy), NGB 22, or signed verification of service letter from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs to their application. Please remove or redact any personally identifiable information such as social security numbers and year of birth. For additional information on Veteran's Preference and guidance on how to determine if you are eligible, click here.

The Washington State Department of Retirement Systems is an equal opportunity employer supporting diversity, equity and inclusion. DRS does not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, race, creed, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran or military status, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability.

If you need assistance with the online application or have questions regarding the recruitment, please contact Human Resource office at drs.recruitment@drs.wa.gov. Persons of disability needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this announcement in an alternate format, may call the Human Resources Office at (360) 664-7309 or TTY Relay Service at 711.

Come join our team!