Quality Assurance & Systems Strategist (MA5) - Olympia

Quality Assurance & Systems Strategist (MA5) - Olympia

Salary

$84,792.00 - $114,072.00 Annually

Location

Multiple Locations Statewide, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

2026-07807

Department

Dept of Children, Youth, and Families

Division

Partnership, Prevention, and Services Division

Opening Date

09/28/2026

Closing Date

10/8/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

Salary Information

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

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Description

Our vision is to ensure that "Washington state's children and youth grow up safe and healthy- thriving physically, emotionally, and academically, nurtured by family and community."

Job Title: Quality Assurance & Systems Strategist (MA5)

Location: While the assigned office is in Olympia, WA (1500 Jefferson St. SE) the incumbent must be able to travel to offices and regions throughout the state to attend in-person meetings, training sessions, and conferences. The incumbent may be eligible for telework with some in-person meetings as required.

Closes: Thursday, October 8th, 2026

Salary: $84,792 - $114,072 Annually

Ready to turn big ideas into life-changing impact? The Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) Family First team is looking for a Quality Assurance and Systems Strategist who thrives on strengthening families and bringing big-picture policy and legislative vision to life for communities across Washington State. If you are forward-thinking and eager to make a lasting difference, get ready for bold goals, dynamic high-impact work, and a supportive, collaborative team. We look forward to learning more about your innovative mindset. Submit your application today to be considered for this exciting opportunity.

Click here to learn more about DCYF.

The Opportunity:

The FFPSA Quality Assurance and Systems Strategist leads and coordinates quality assurance (QA) and continuous quality improvement (CQI) efforts that support Washington's Family First Prevention Services Act (FFPSA) prevention plan. In this role, you will apply both qualitative and quantitative CQI methods, equity-driven improvement strategies, and deep knowledge of child welfare statutes, WACs, and DCYF policies to strengthen statewide implementation of prevention services.

You will review data, identify practice trends, present key findings to leadership, and help shape training, policy, and field implementation related to FFPSA eligibility, prevention planning, and evidence-based practices. Collaboration is central to this role, working closely with regional leadership, field staff, tribal partners, service providers, courts, and the Child Welfare Leadership Team to address barriers, elevate strengths, and ensure fidelity to FFPSA requirements.

This position also supports DCYF's long-term system development efforts, including CCWIS integration and federal reporting needs, helping safeguard Title IV-E prevention revenue through strong QA/CQI processes, compliance monitoring, case reviews, and change management activities.

Some of what you will get to do:

• Lead the development, use and implementation of culturally grounded QA and CQI tools.
• Collaborate with Tribal Nations and culturally proximate community-based organizations to ensure QA and CQI practices reflect community values and service intent.
• Ensure data collection processes are respectful and align with tribal data sovereignty.
• Lead the development and use of culturally grounded QA and CQI tools.
• Collect and analyze QA and CQI data aligned with the goals of the Family First implementation efforts as well as aligned with performance-based contracting (PBC) quality and outcome indicators.
• Establish a CQI frameworks that incorporates both quantitative (e.g. referral and completion rates, family outcomes, timeliness of services etc.) and qualitative (e.g. interviews, staff/provider reflections, storytelling etc.) data.
• Design and implement feedback loops to ensure data is shared back with community-based organizations, service providers and community partners in a transparent and meaningful way with the purpose of supporting program improvement.
• Collaborate with program leads to facilitate regular CQI cycles with community-based pathway serving organizations, service providers and others to review data, celebrate successes, identify barriers, and come together to create solutions for improvement and ongoing support.
• Assist in developing strategies for scaling and sustaining effective culturally responsive services, ensuring lessons learned from pilot projects are integrated into broader system improvements.
• Utilize QA/CQI activities and data collection to support child welfare and community-based pathway implementation efforts.
• Provide support and ongoing technical assistance to community-based organizations and service providers, with a focus on culturally grounded QA/CQI expectations.
• Provide subject matter expertise, guidance and leadership for the successful implementation of FFPSA program requirements with DCYF staff across Agency and through community-based pathway organizations, providers and Tribal nations.
• Conduct complex analysis and engages internal and external stakeholders to develop and advise policies and strategies related to statewide practice.
• Developing, planning and conducting assessments, case and program reviews.
• Tracks and analyzes performance data and analysis for compliance and program outcomes.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in business administration, public administration, law, public health, health administration, or a related field AND five (5) years of demonstrated experience in two or more of the following areas:
• Conducting research
• Analyzing policies, laws, rules, or regulations
• Conducting business analysis and developing requirements
• Leading business projects
• Managing business operations
• Business policy development
• Supervising

OR

• Equivalent combination of education and experience totaling nine (9) years in the above noted areas.

AND

• The ability to take action to learn and grow.

• The ability to take action to meet the needs of others.

In addition to those required qualifications, our ideal applicant will also have some or all of the following:

Previously demonstrated knowledge, skills, and abilities to:

• Analyzing policies, laws, rules, or regulations.

• Previous experience implementing Quality Assurance and Continuous Quality Improvement strategies within service delivery.

• Previous experience with strong verbal and written skills using a partnership approach, listening skills and multi-faceted communication strategies.

• Previous demonstrated computer proficiency in Word, Excel, and Power Point.

• Track record of taking initiative, follow-though, maintaining flexibility and a willingness to learn and promote racial equity.

• Previous demonstrated experience with work independently and managing programs or projects.

• Exhibits a relentless commitment to anti-racism and addressing diversity, disproportionality and inequity in child and family-serving systems.

• Experience with DCYF child welfare programs and policies.

• Experience collaborating with community partners, local governments, providers, and executive leaders.

• A demonstrated willingness to be innovative, persistent, and client centered.

• In-depth knowledge of program areas managed including:

• Culturally responsive services & programming

• The tools and supports needed to effectively address equity driven outcomes.

• Program and contract performance evaluation methods, quality assurance, data interpretation, including monitoring and tracking budgets and expenditures.

• Quality assurance and program evaluation methodologies.

• Demonstrated knowledge and skills in accessing all information in the data management system.

• Previous experience with state and federal statutes and WACs related to FFPSA, child protection, confidentiality, and child welfare.

How do I apply?

In addition to completing the online application, applicants must attach the following documents to their profile to be considered for this position:

• Cover Letter (describing how you meet the specific qualifications for this position).

• Resume

Supplemental Information:

The Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) is committed to Washington's children and youth growing up safe, healthy, and thriving. We invite all candidates to join us in our goal to create a diverse and equitable workplace that reflects the communities we serve. If you are excited about this role but you believe that your education and/or experience might not align perfectly with every qualification in the job posting, we encourage you to apply anyway.

The Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, 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 service animal by a person with a disability.

This recruitment may be used to fill multiple vacancies.

Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal history will be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicants suitability and competence to perform in the position.

Successfully complete, within mandated timeframes, employee orientation and all other mandatory annual in-service and other required training.

Degrees must be obtained from an accredited college or university whose accreditation is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), or a foreign equivalent verified by a NACES-approved organization at naces.org. Foreign Equivalency certification must be attached to the application for degrees obtained outside the U.S.

This position is included in the bargaining unit represented by the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE). For more information: https://wfse.org/

Benefits eligibility for this position may be different than what's listed in the benefits tab of this recruitment announcement. For more information on employee benefits eligibility, visit: Public Employee Benefits Board (PEBB).

If you would like to request an accommodation throughout the application/interview process, contact DCYF Recruiter. If youre experiencing technical difficulties creating, accessing or completing your application, call NEOGOV toll-free at (855) 524-5627 or email support@neogov.com. Persons needing accommodation in the application process or this announcement in an alternative format may call the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) at 360-664-1960.

Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications and wish to claim Veterans Preference MUST attach a copy of their DD214, NGB Form 22, or Predischarge Certification (issued not more than 120 days prior to End of Term of Service (ETS) by date of submission). If claiming preference based on Predischarge Certification, the individual will be required to provide their official discharge documentation, such as a DD Form 214, NGB Form 22, or equivalent, within 30 days after the date of discharge. Please blackout (redact) the social security number before attaching any documents. For additional information on Veterans' Preference and guidance on how to determine if you are eligible, click here.

DCYF participates in the federal E-Verify program. The selected candidate must provide proof of identity and authorization to work in the United States, consistent with E-Verify requirements, on their first day of employment.

2026-07807

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

Please be aware that to meet the minimum qualifications for this position, candidates must have the required number of years of experience in at least two (2) of the following areas: -Conducting research -Analyzing policies, laws, rules, or regulations -Conducting business analysis and developing requirements -Leading business projects -Managing business operations -Business policy development -Supervising Which of the following best describes how you meet the qualifications for this position?

• I have a bachelor's degree in business administration, public administration, law, public health, health administration, or a related field AND five (5) years of demonstrated experience in two (2) or more of the above noted areas.
• I have the equivalent combination of education and experience totaling nine (9) years in the above noted areas.
• I have None of the above.

02

Please select the areas in which you have demonstrated experience in. Choose any or all that apply.

• Conducting research
• Analyzing policies, laws, rules, or regulations
• Conducting business analysis and developing requirements
• Leading business projects
• Managing business operations
• Business policy development
• Supervising
• None of the above

03

Please briefly describe how/where you gained the experience indicated in the previous two questions. Your answer should be reflected in the work history section of your application. If you do not have this experience, please write "none." Please do not write "see application/resume/cover letter."

04

Which one of the following best describes your highest level of competency in strategic and operational planning, analytical thinking, interpreting complex data, and managing complex projects?

• Willing (Little or no experience or training regarding this competency, but interested and willing to learn).
• Developing (Developing knowledge and skills regarding this competency through completion of an employer sponsored training or higher education program, OR through at least 6 months of experience applying the competency in the workplace).
• Skilled (Successfully and regularly applied the competency in the workplace. Recognized by others as demonstrating ample knowledge and skills regarding the competency. Generally, this is achieved through 1 to 3 years of experience).
• Expert (Application of this competency is polished to excellence and is extensive in nature. Recognized by others as demonstrating exceptional knowledge and skills regarding this competency. Generally, this is achieved through 3 or more years of experience).
• None of the above

05

Which one of the following best describes your highest level of understanding of DCYF Child Welfare programs and policies?

• Willing (Little or no experience or training regarding this competency, but interested and willing to learn).
• Developing (Developing knowledge and skills regarding this competency through completion of an employer sponsored training or higher education program, OR through at least 6 months of experience applying the competency in the workplace).
• Skilled (Successfully and regularly applied the competency in the workplace. Recognized by others as demonstrating ample knowledge and skills regarding the competency. Generally, this is achieved through 1 to 3 years of experience).
• Expert (Application of this competency is polished to excellence and is extensive in nature. Recognized by others as demonstrating exceptional knowledge and skills regarding this competency. Generally, this is achieved through 3 or more years of experience).
• None of the above

06

Which of the following best describes your experience completing or supporting federal reporting or compliance monitoring?

• Willing (Minimal experience; willing to be trained).
• Developing (Some experience supporting federal reporting with guidance).
• Skilled (Independently complete federal reports and ensure accuracy and compliance).
• Expert (Lead federal reporting processes, ensure adherence to federal expectations, and serve as a technical resource).
• None of the above

07

Which of the following best describes your experience collaborating across multiple teams, agencies, or leadership groups to solve problems or implement strategies?

• Willing (Limited related experience; would require some guidance).
• Developing (Experience collaborating with internal teams or external partners with support).
• Skilled (Regularly work across functions, agencies, or leadership levels to achieve shared outcomes).
• Expert (Extensive experience leading complex cross-system collaboration and serving as a key facilitator or partner).
• None of the above

08

Which of the following best describes your experience working within or navigating Washington State government structures, systems, or processes?

• Willing (Limited exposure but interested in learning government operations).
• Developing (Basic understanding through coursework, training, or limited professional interaction).
• Skilled (Regularly navigate state systems and apply understanding of government structure to support work).
• Expert (Deep experience with Washington State operations and processes; recognized as someone who can guide others).
• None of the above

09

This position requires a criminal background check prior to employment. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicants suitability and competence to perform in the position. Are you willing to undergo a criminal background check as a condition of employment?

• Yes
• No

10

If claiming veterans preference in obtaining state employment, have you attached a redacted DD214, NGB22 or Predischarge Certification validating service type and discharge.

• Yes - DD214/NGB22
• Yes - Predischarge Certification (issued not more than 120 days prior to End of Term of Service (ETS) by date of submission).
• N/A

11

Do you have a valid drivers license?

• Yes
• No

12

DCYF - How did you hear about this job opportunity?

• WWW.Careers.Wa.Gov
• WorkSource Center or Website (WorkSourceWA.com)
• Washington State Employee Referral
• DCYF Employee Referral
• DCYF Jobs Page
• Monster
• College/university career fair or website
• LinkedIn
• Facebook
• VERG
• Advertisement
• CareerBuilder
• Diversity Jobs
• Handshake
• Movie Theatre
• Other

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