Classification Specialist, Human Resources Consultant 3 (HRC3)

State of Washington$69K — $93K *
Education, Government & Non-Profit
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 2+ years of professional HR experience focused on classification and compensation.
  • Bachelor’s degree in HR Management, business, or related field, or equivalent combination of education/experience.
  • Knowledge of classification rules and regulations.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft products, particularly Excel.
  • Experience interpreting statutes, rules, and HR theories.

Responsibilities

  • Conduct classification analysis to recommend position classifications.
  • Review and validate position descriptions for accuracy.
  • Interpret and apply classification and compensation policies.
  • Consult with managers on classification issues and organizational changes.
  • Research and resolve complex classification questions.

Benefits

  • Flexible/hybrid work options available.
  • Opportunity for position extension or permanence after initial employment period.
  • Environment that values diversity and inclusion.
  • Possibility to develop strong partnerships within the agency.
  • Professional development through exposure to HR-related best practices.
Full Job Description
Salary : $69,348.00 - $93,288.00 Annually
Location : Thurston County - Olympia, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Non-Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number:
Department: Dept. of Natural Resources
Opening Date: 06/23/2026
Closing Date: 7/5/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
Salary Information: The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step

Description
Classification Specialist, Human Resources Consultant 3 (HRC3)Recruitment #2026-6-A140
Full-time, Non-Permanent, Non-Represented position
Anticipated employment is July - December 2026 (possibility of extension or permanence)
Location: Natural Resources Building- Olympia, WA

Work Hours and Partial Telework flexibility may be available and considered
Salary: $5,779.00 - $7,774.00 Monthly
The salary range listed includes a general wage increase of 2% for all state employees effective July 1, 2026.

Review of applications is ongoing. We reserve the right to make a hiring decision or close this recruitment at any time after 6/30/26. It is in your best interest to submit materials as soon as possible

Duties

Responsibilities:
  • Conduct classification analysis and recommend appropriate classifications for new and existing positions.
  • Review position descriptions to ensure duties, responsibilities, and organizational relationships are accurately documented.
  • Interpret and apply classification and compensation policies, procedures, and best practices.
  • Consult with managers and HR partners on classification-related issues and organizational changes.
  • Research complex classification questions and develop practical solutions.

Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
You must meet all the Required Qualifications and Competencies to be considered for this position. There are multiple pathways to meet qualifications, such as education, volunteer work, life skills, and experience. It is important that you clearly communicate in your application material that your skills align with the position and qualifications.

  • Two years of broad-based professional human resource experience, including independently advising and consulting on classification and compensation, while:
    • Building partnerships with client managers and supervisors
    • Aligning HR with organizational mission, goals, and deliverables.
    • Providing professional customer service.
  • Bachelor's degree in HR Management, business, or a related field from an accredited institution;
    OR an equivalent combination of college-level education and/or experience.
  • Knowledge of Classification rules and regulations.
  • Experience with Microsoft products with an emphasis on Excel.
  • Experience with interpreting and applying related statutes, rules, CBA terms, policies, procedures, agency best and past practices, and general HR theory.


Required Competencies:
  • Proficiency in communicating effectively both verbally and in writing.
  • Commitment to fostering and supporting an environment that honors diversity, equity, inclusion, and environmental justice practices.
  • Perform assigned duties in a manner consistent with applicable laws, regulations, and public records retention, and requests are followed.
  • DNR Core Competencies:
    • Personal Accountability
    • Value Others
    • Compassionate Communication
    • Inspire Others
    • Commitment to Excellence


Special Requirements and Conditions of Employment:
  • Office setting with the option to work from home, subject to approval from your Manager.
  • May need to travel to meetings or trainings.


Desired Qualifications:
These qualifications are not required. However, it can help you stand out as a candidate and should be highlighted in your application material.

  • SHRM certification or its equivalent.

At DNR, we value diversity and inclusion and are committed to hiring the best candidate for the job. Don't let doubts stop you from applying for this position. If you have any questions about the qualifications, please email us at
Supplemental Information

Application Requirements: Failure to provide the listed documents may result in disqualification. If you have questions or difficulty attaching these documents, please contact
  • Online Application: Apply at (Click on the APPLY button above). You must complete the entire online application to be considered for the position.
  • Cover Letter: Your cover letter should be tailored to this job posting. Be sure to highlight your qualifications for this role, directly address the requirements of the position, and explain why you're the best candidate for the job.
  • Resume: Your resume should consist of your work history, education, volunteer work, life skills, experience, and any other relevant information associated with the position.
  • References: References are optional at the time your application is submitted. Finalists will be asked to provide a list of at least three (3) professional references, to include a current or most recent supervisor, along with telephone numbers.
  • Complete All Supplemental Questions: Answers to these questions will be used to evaluate candidates. Please provide comprehensive answers to all questions requiring a text response.
  • Important: Do not attach any documents that include photos or private information (Social Security Number, year of birth, etc.).
  • Email Communication: Candidates who move forward in the recruitment process may be contacted via email at with interview information/scheduling instructions. Please monitor the email listed in your application materials and check your junk email folder to ensure you receive these communications.
Questions? Please contact Janet Krueger, Manager of Classification and Recruitment, at or email us at

Persons needing accommodation in the application/testing process or this job announcement in an alternative format may call (360) 522-2500 or email Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through the by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384.

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