Public Records Unit Supervisor

State of Washington • $99K — $133K *
Education, Government & Non-Profit
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • 3+ years of direct Public Disclosure experience
  • Experience processing public records requests and applying statutory exemptions
  • Bachelor's degree in Public Administration, Business, or related field (preferred)
  • 1+ year of supervisory or lead worker experience (preferred)

Responsibilities

  • Manage and supervise the Public Records Unit Communications Consultant 3's
  • Ensure compliance with public records requests according to policy and regulations
  • Monitor and train staff on public records processes
  • Conduct performance evaluations and organize team meetings
  • Provide expert technical expertise on public disclosure issues
  • Assist in managing responses to public records act litigation
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Benefits

  • Remote/telework/flexible schedules
  • Up to 25 paid vacation days per year
  • 8 hours of paid sick leave per month
  • 12 paid holidays per year
  • Generous retirement plan
  • Flex Spending Accounts
  • Dependent Care Assistance
Full Job Description
Salary: $99,036.00 - $133,200.00 Annually
Location : Thurston County - Tumwater, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number:
Department: Dept. of Corrections
Division: EOS - Information Governance
Opening Date: 10/02/2026
Closing Date: 10/11/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
Salary Information: The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step

Description
Public Records Unit Supervisor

(Communications Consultant 4)

Full Time | Permanent

Location: Headquarters | Tumwater, WA

Salary Range: $99,036 - $133,200 Annually
This position is represented by the Teamsters 117 bargaining unit.
The Washington State Department of Corrections has an exciting opportunity for a servant leader to join the Information Governance team as a Public Records Unit Supervisor (Communications Consultant 4)! The goal of this position is to plan, organize and direct the work conducted by the Communication Consultant 3's within the Public Records Unit!
As a Public Records Unit Supervisor, you will be responsible for the oversight of tracking, compiling and reporting of statewide public records/information statistics related to agency workload and litigation costs. This data will be analyzed to ensure agency-wide compliance and identify potential target areas to improve efficiency in disseminating public records/information.
The candidate of choice will support the agency by serving as an agency expert on facilitating internal/external document exchanges on public records/information matters. You will work with internal and external stakeholders to ensure compliance with applicable rules and laws.
We are searching for an individual who enjoys research, can multi-task, is flexible and will contribute to the Department's objectives by ensuring that public records deadlines, processes and policies are clearly articulated and in adherence to applicable statutes.
A completed application packet will include:
  • A cover letter regarding your interest in this position with our agency
  • A detailed resume
  • Three professional references

Application Process
To begin the online application process:
  • Click the green 'Apply' button on the job posting and sign in or create an account.
  • Complete your application.
  • Please be sure to attach the following to your application:
    1. A cover letter outlining how you meet the qualifications for this position,
    2. A detailed chronological resume; and
    3. At least (3) three professional references - A professional reference is identified 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, please include non-related professionals, such as educators or other professional associates.
  • Click "Accept & Submit" to submit your application.

Incomplete application packages may disqualify an applicant from the application process.
We are looking for evidence in your application materials that you have the experience, skills, and abilities indicated in this job posting. Qualified applicants whose responses most closely match the requirements of this position may be invited to interview. Carefully review your application before submitting. All information may be verified, and documentation may be required. The initial screening will be solely based on the contents and completeness of the application materials submitted.
Duties
We are looking for teammates who share our vision of public service, committed to an equitable and inclusive culture that fosters and inspires excellence, while promoting innovation, engagement, and safety, leading to better outcomes for our incarcerated population, our agency, and our community.
As a Communications Consultant 4, some of your duties will include:
  • Managing and supervising the Public Records Unit Communications Consultant 3's which may include:
    • Ensuring Public Records requests are processed in accordance with policy, as well as state and federal regulations
    • Ensuring consistency with Public Records processes throughout the agency
    • Monitoring, providing training, and directly supervising staff using appropriate audit methods
    • Ensuring constituents receive a timely response as established by WAC and RCW rules
    • Planning, assigning and coordinating and directing staff in their work in accordance with policy, WAC, RCW's and case law to ensure proper dissemination of agency information/records
    • Conducting performance evaluations on a timely basis
    • Organizing and conducting regular one on one and team staff meetings in order to promote more understanding around the PRA so staff are properly equipped to properly respond to public records issues
  • Providing Expert Technical Expertise on Public Disclosure Issues
  • Assisting the Public Records Officer in managing responses to public records act litigation on behalf of the agency
  • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications
What we need (required qualifications):
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • A minimum of three (3) or more years of Public Disclosure experience. *Public Disclosure Experience: For purposes of this recruitment, public disclosure experience means direct, hands-on experience processing public records/public disclosure requests, including reviewing responsive records, applying or identifying applicable statutory exemptions or redactions, communicating with requesters, and/or managing the workload and requirements associated with responding to public records requests. General records management, maintaining confidential records, or working with documents does not, by itself, constitute public disclosure experience.

What will make your application stand out (preferred qualifications):
  • Bachelor's degree in Public Administration, Business, or related field from an accredited institution whose accreditation is recognized by the US Department of Education or the Council of Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), or a foreign equivalent
  • One (1) year or more supervisory OR lead worker experience

Supplemental Information
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.
Telework Details

This position may be allocated for telework. Work may be performed from your home or another offsite location within the state of Washington using a reliable internet or cellular hotspot service at that time. Employees are expected to perform assigned duties in a safe manner, to take proper care 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. Some offices will have a "drop in" area available, however, a dedicated workspace within a DOC facility will not be provided.
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 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
  • 8 hours of paid sick leave per month
  • 12 paid holidays a year
  • Generous retirement plan
  • Flex Spending Accounts
  • Dependent Care Assistance
  • Deferred Compensation and so much more!

PERS: 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 ' web site.
For questions about this recruitment, or to request reasonable accommodation in the application process, please email [email protected] or call us at 509-630-9160. For TTY service, please call the Washington Relay Service at 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6388.
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

About State of Washington

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Joining the State of Washington's diverse team offers more than just a job; it opens opportunities to build and grow a career in an array of fields. State of Washington is renowned for its commitment to excellence and innovation in public service.

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The State of Washington places a high priority on creating an inclusive work environment. Diversity training is integral, ensuring all team members understand and appreciate the value of differences. Innovation is at the heart of the State of Washington, where new ideas and perspectives lead to effective solutions and services.

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Employees at the State of Washington enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that supports both their professional and personal lives. Health benefits, retirement plans, and wellness programs are just the beginning. The culture here is built on mutual respect, collaboration, and a commitment to excellence.

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