JOB
Washington State House of RepresentativesExempt Recruitment AnnouncementPublic Records Officer OPENS: October 05, 2023CLOSES: Open Until Filled (first review will begin close of business October 19, 2023)REPORTS TO: House CounselLOCATION: Thurston County -- Olympia, WashingtonSALARY: $70,848 - $122,772 annually (The above reflects the full salary range, starting salary based on the successful candidate’s experience and qualifications and will likely be below the top of the range.)About the House of Representatives: The House of Representatives (House) comprises half of the Washington State Legislature and is made up of 98 members elected to serve two-year terms, representing 49 legislative districts. The House employs approximately 240 full-time year-round staff and 100 temporary session staff and interns. Staff workgroups include, nonpartisan staff, Democratic Caucus staff and Republican Caucus staff. The Legislature meets annually on the second Monday in January on the capitol campus in Olympia. Regular legislative sessions take place January through March in even-numbered years and January through April in odd-numbered years. Special legislative sessions occur as needed. Our workplace is on the beautiful capitol campus in Olympia. The 486-acre campus includes the Legislative Building and other historic structures, as well as popular parks and trails with views of Capitol Lake, Budd Inlet, and the Olympic Mountains. The House of Representatives holds themselves to the Legislative Code of Conduct which expects the following: We conduct ourselves with self-awareness, self-respect, and professionalism;We treat others with respect, dignity, and civility, regardless of status or position; andWe refrain from engaging in hostile, intimidating, offensive, or unlawful activities or behaviors that may amount to discrimination, harassment, sexual harassment, or bullying.
EXAMPLE OF DUTIES
Position Profile: The Public Records Officer is a nonpartisan position within the House Administration that is responsible for managing the public records function for the House of Representatives, serving as the point of contact for all public records requests, and ensuring that the production of requested records are consistent with state and federal laws. This position leads a team of public records staff, involves supervisory responsibility, and requires strong organization skills and attention to detail. How You’ll Be Expected to Contribute: Manage House responses to the public records requests under the Washington State Public Records Act (chapter 42.52 RCW).Manage and oversee the work of the public records unit.Monitor, coordinate, and assign tasks or requests to public records staff and review completed requests before release.Identify records and coordinate the production of public records with record holders to meet legal deadlines. Serve as the primary point of contact with requestors and facilitate responses. Review responsive records for redactions and withholding exemptions and apply redactions prior to release. Search email archives for email communications responsive to requests. Develop and implement procedures, guidelines, and control for storage, retrieval, tracking, and filing of active and inactive records; ensure records are maintained, disposed, or archived according to retention schedule. Develop, implement, and maintain policies and procedures for public records requests. Work with House Counsel in the development and presenting of training for members and staff on public records, record retention, and record management. Evaluate, analyze, and make recommendations regarding public records requests and records management. Respond to inquiries and requests from legislative members, staff, and the public (answering phones, emails, and face-to-face contacts) on public records and records management issues.Serve as liaison with Leg-Tech on software and other technical issues related to public records. Use discretion to triage confidential and sensitive information.Monitor and analyze changes to public records laws and regulations, either through legislation or case law and make recommendations for the implementation of policy and procedure updates to ensure compliance. Multi-task and prioritize tasks within competing deadlines, and also willing to work the long, irregular hours that are common during legislative sessions.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
Conditions of Employment/Working Conditions: This position requires an onsite/in-person presence in Olympia during session and must be able to frequently work more than 40 hours per week including evenings, weekends, and holidays during legislative sessions. Interim schedules allow for more flexibility. *This position is currently approved for in-state telework with an expectation to have an onsite in-person presence when requested. Benefits: Employee benefits include vacation and sick leave; paid state holidays; health, life, and other optional insurance; retirement; social security; and military leave. How to Apply: Intrigued? If so, please submit the below items combined in one document: (1) a letter of interest specifically addressing the qualifications; (2) a current resume describing in detail your experience and education; and (3) a minimum of three professional references with contact information (e.g., address, e-mail address, and telephone). Send application materials and direct any questions to: househr@leg.wa.gov Remember the first review of applicants will begin close of business October 19, 2023. The Washington State Legislature is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, creed, color, national origin, sex, marital status, sexual orientation/gender identity, age, disability, honorably discharged veteran, or military status, or using a trained service animal by a person with a disability. We encourage people of all backgrounds to apply, including those listed above and those with other diverse life experiences. Persons requiring reasonable accommodation in the application process or requiring information in an alternative format may contact House ADA Coordinator Kyle Overmiller at kyle.overmiller@leg.wa.gov or 360-786-7271, or TTD 1-800-635-9993. Those with a hearing impairment in need of accommodation are encouraged to contact the Washington Relay Service at 1-800-676-3777 or www.washingtonrelay.com.