Office Assistant (OA3) - Facilities Team

Office Assistant (OA3) - Facilities Team

Salary

$41,820.00 - $55,596.00 Annually

Location

Thurston County - Tumwater, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Job Number

2026-09057

Department

Dept. of Retirement Systems

Division

Executive

Opening Date

10/30/2026

Closing Date

11/9/2026 8:00 AM Pacific

Salary Information

The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Description

Would you thrive in an inclusive environment where teamwork and great service are a top priority, and your work makes everyone else's day easier? Would you take pride in keeping daily operations running smoothly, from processing mail to keeping supplies stocked and delivered where and when they are needed? If this sounds like you, the role of Office Assistant on the Facilities Team at the Department of Retirement Systems could be the best next step for you!

In-person interviews will be tentatively scheduled between November 13 and November 20, 2026.

Duties

We are looking for a motivated, dependable Office Assistant to perform a variety of critical functions within the agency's Facilities Team, including processing agency mail, maintaining inventory and stock levels for the agency's supply room, picking up and delivering printed materials and boxes, and participating as a member of the agency's Emergency Response Team.

Some of what you'll do:

• Drive to and from the United States Postal Service facility every day to pick up morning mail
• Receive, open, screen, review, date stamp, and route incoming US mail, interagency, and private carrier mail in accordance with established procedures
• Process incoming negotiables in accordance with agency policy and deliver incoming cash receipts to the Fiscal cash room
• Sort outgoing mail for pickup and processing and advises and assists team members regarding mail procedures and deadlines
• Maintain agency supply room stock levels for general office supplies and reorders when necessary to maintain adequate supply
• Deliver boxes of copy paper, weighing up to 50 pounds each, to printer locations throughout the building (with appropriate equipment)
• Monitor agency envelope usage and ensures appropriate stock is available for upcoming mailings
• Pick up and deliver printed materials and boxes, some weighing up to 50 pounds (with appropriate equipment)
• Perform set-up and take-down duties for agency events, meetings or special functions
• Participates as a member of the Emergency Response Team.

Schedule: The work schedule for this position is 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday, with a 7:00 or 7:30 am start time. Due to the nature of the work, this position is expected to be on-site every day at the DRS office building in Tumwater, Washington. There is no telework option for this position.

Qualifications

What we're looking for (required qualifications): Experience can be gained through various combinations of professional or relevant lived experience, including volunteer or other personal experience. Experience may be concurrent.

• Professional, volunteer or lived experience performing work directly related to the duties and responsibilities of this position.

This experience is typically earned through up to two (2) years of full-time experience providing general clerical, supply, mail processing or other relevant duties.

• Demonstrated ability to lift up to 50 pounds, with appropriate equipment and tools.

• A valid Washington State driver's license.

• Demonstrated proficiency with Microsoft Outlook, Word and Excel (preferably version 2016 or newer).

• Demonstrated proficiency in the following competency areas:

MANAGING WORKLOADS - Organizes multiple assignments to produce work products that are accurate, thorough, and on time. Use documented procedures and basic logic to process work, complete tasks, and solve problems.

ACCOUNTABILITY - Understands the link between job responsibilities and organizational goals. Manages their own performance to meet expectations and achieve expected results. Holds self accountable for decisions, actions, and behavior.

ATTENTION TO DETAIL - Plans and organizes time and resources efficiently. Follows processes and procedures in the completion of work. Carefully monitors the details and quality of work and double-checks work product to ensure accuracy and consistency.

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.

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.

COORDINATING AND ORGANIZING - Effectively organizes work and coordinates activities, services, and schedules to ensure smooth and efficient operation of work. Is an effective communications link and reliable source of information for others. Keeps interested parties informed of the status of events.

INDEPENDENCE/SELF-MANAGEMENT - Is a self-starter; demonstrates initiative and motivation in completing their assigned workload. Delivers on commitments made to others. Maintains focus and effectiveness; is a visible role model for others.

LEARNING AND GROWTH - Demonstrates a growth mindset by actively seeking opportunities to learn, improve, and expand capabilities. Displays curiosity about new ideas and perspectives and an openness to innovation, change, and feedback. Takes responsibility for personal learning by identifying and communicating needs and challenges, and applying new knowledge to navigate systems, tools, and processes. Reflects on experiences to identify strengths and areas for improvement, using learning to make government programs and processes more efficient and effective in serving the people of Washington.

MEETING THE NEEDS OF OTHERS - Demonstrates empathy, flexibility, and responsiveness when interacting with customers, colleagues, and community members. Understands that others have varied needs and perspectives and adapts communication and actions accordingly. Builds relationships and collaborates to increase access, opportunity, and positive outcomes for all. Balances and considers all parties' needs when developing solutions, ensuring equity, respect, and service excellence in every interaction.

Supplemental Information

Be sure to read this entire section - We promise, it'll be helpful!

• To be considered for this position, please be sure to complete all sections of the application and answer all supplemental questions.
• Application fields that say "see resume/attachment" will not be considered.

References, Personnel File Review, and Background Checks

• DRS requires at least two professional references including a professional reference from your current or most recent supervisor.
• 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.

Union Membership

• This position is part of a bargaining unit represented by the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE).

Certified Candidate Pool

• This recruitment may be used to fill future similar vacancies for up to sixty (60) days.

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 coaching, mentoring, resources and support that team members need to be successful.

DRS offers a generous benefits package that includes membership in the Public Employees Retirement System, health, dental and vision coverage and participation in the Deferred Compensation Program. Also, as a public service employee you may also be eligible for student loan forgiveness. (See the Benefits tab at the top of this post for more information).

Other perks include:

• Flexible work schedules
• Infants at Work Program
• Tuition reimbursement
• Opportunities for professional growth
• Access to LinkedIn Learning
• Commitment to team member safety and wellness
• Community involvement and charitable giving opportunities
• Commute Trip Reduction Program
• Free Parking and EV Chargers available

Veterans Preference: Applicants wishing to claim Veterans 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 Veterans 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 the DRS team!

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. Thats 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.

Retirement and Deferred Compensation

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 Department of Retirement Systems web site.

Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.

Social Security

All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Holidays

Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.

Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.

Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.

Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.

Sick Leave

Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.

Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

Vacation (Annual Leave)

Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.

Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.

Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

As provided in WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.

Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.

Military Leave

Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.

Bereavement Leave

Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.

Additional Leave

Leave Sharing

Parental Leave

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 01-07-2026

01

You are welcome to include the name and pronoun you would like to be referred to in your materials, and we will honor this as you interact with our organization. Please note that this question will be kept confidential during the interview selection process.

02

Do you have professional, volunteer or lived experience performing work directly related to the duties and responsibilities of this position. This experience is typically earned through up to two (2) years of full-time experience providing general clerical, supply, mail processing or other relevant duties.

• Yes
• No

03

If you answered "Yes" to the question above, please briefly describe how and where you gained the experience that makes you eligible for this job.

04

Describe briefly describe your background and/or experience that demonstrates your ability to follow instructions, pay attention to details, and anticipate needs.

05

This job requires physical activity, including walking, setting up rooms for meetings, driving and delivering mail, and lifting up to 50 lbs. Are you willing and able (with appropriate equipment and tools) to do work of this nature?

• Yes
• No

06

Please select the answer which best describes your ability to use Microsoft Word (version 2016 or newer).

• I have not used Microsoft Word but am willing to learn.
• I can create and save standard letters and memos but would have to learn how to format and edit documents.
• I am able to create, format, edit, preview, print and save documents. I often use standard functions to select, edit, copy, paste, format and spell-check text. I can create bulleted and numbered lists and indent and align paragraphs.
• I regularly create, format and edit tables, columns and charts. I often insert and format sections, create headers and footers, and work with pictures and clip art. I am able to insert, copy, edit and delete hyperlinks and bookmarks in documents.
• I am able to create forms using templates, work with form fields, and format and enhance forms. I use mail merge to create form letters, modify merged documents, and merge envelopes and labels. I am able to restrict editing and formatting of documents.

07

Please select the answer which best describes your ability to use Microsoft Excel (version 2016 or newer).

• I have not used Microsoft Excel but am willing to learn.
• I can create basic lists but would have to learn how to format spreadsheets, copy and sort data, and create basic formulas.
• I am able to enter data into existing spreadsheets, work with basic sorting tools, and create simple formulas for basic mathematical functions.
• I am able to easily create, modify, print and format spreadsheets. I can find and replace data and am able to use basic sorting tools.
• I am able to manipulate large or complex spreadsheets, use complex mathematical formulas to calculate data and link worksheets. I import data from other sources and create and format charts and graphs.

08

If hired for this position, do you currently possess required documents to allow you to legally work within the United States? This link lists acceptable documents: https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents

• Yes
• No

09

Will you now or in the future require sponsorship for employment visa status? (e.g. H-1B, F1, TN, etc.) DRS is not an E-Verify agency]

• Yes
• No

10

Do you possess a valid, unrestricted Washington state drivers license?

• Yes
• No

11

Are you willing and able to undergo a criminal background check if you are the preferred candidate for this position? Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining suitability and competence to perform in this position.

• Yes
• No

Required Question

Employer State of Washington

Address View Job Posting for Agency Information

View Job Posting for Location, Washington, 98504

Website http://www.careers.wa.gov