IT Policy & Planning Senior/Specialist at State of Washington – Washington

Work Hours and Partial Telework flexibility may be available and considered
Salary: $8,113.00 - $10,916.00 Monthly

Recruitment extended! Review of applications is ongoing. We reserve the right to make a hiring decision or close this recruitment at any time after 7/15/25. It is in your best interest to submit materials as soon as possible.

Want to join something GREAT and make a difference?
The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has a rewarding opportunity in our Information Technology Division for an IT Policy & Planning Senior Specialist to lead enterprise policy governance, strategic IT planning, and statewide compliance efforts. If you’re driven by translating policy into action, aligning IT strategy with public service, and ensuring technology investments deliver lasting value, this is your next career step.

In this influential role, you’ll serve as DNR’s expert on statewide IT policy compliance, IT portfolio management, change management, and agency-wide technology planning. You’ll work closely with leadership, cybersecurity, procurement, and operations teams to ensure that our systems, vendors, and policies meet both business needs and state requirements. From drafting policies and managing compliance with WaTech standards to steering disaster recovery planning and supporting IT audits, your work will shape how DNR governs, modernizes, and secures its digital infrastructure.

If you're ready to make a strategic impact in a mission-driven agency and lead the modernization of policy and process across Washington’s natural resource systems, apply now and help us build the foundation for resilient, responsive public-sector technology.
Responsibilities:
Continually strengthen IT Governance by identifying, prioritizing, developing, documenting, maintaining, implementing, and communicating key information technology policies, processes, and procedures. Tasks Include:

• Provide agency leadership and guidance working with members of the ITD Extended Management Team and other IT Division staff to identify, prioritize, develop, document, maintain, implement, and communicate key division and agency information technology policies, processes, and procedures.
• Lead the change management effort for ITD. Working with project teams and division SME’s.
• Develop policies that are in compliance with both WaTech and DNR standards and that are ready for feedback, editing, and finalization by SME’s.
• Independently lead groups of SME’s to draft information technology policies, processes, and procedures in a timely manner.
• Facilitate a working group monthly or bi-monthly of SME’s.
• Implement a tracker of policies, processes, and procedures for the group to work on, and a sunset review schedule depending on priority.
• Report to leadership on this group's progress.
• Lead project teams of information technology professional staff and business customers, as needed, to identify and model technology governance processes used to accomplish a wide array of activities within the Agency.
• Independently analyze IT Processes and look for opportunities for business process improvement for efficiency.
• Occasionally provide policy and procedure updates in IT Coordinator Meetings.

Outcome: Cohesive, concise policies, processes, and procedures that are communicated, documented, organized, and distributed so the agency is aware of how and what should be done when conducting various IT work.

Long-term planning, development, maintenance, implementation, and communication of the agency’s IT Portfolio, IT Investments, IT Disaster Recovery Plan, and DNR’s Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP). Tasks Include:

• Provide leadership and guidance within a team of business partners and IT professionals regarding strategic planning, and the development, maintenance, and documentation of DNR’s IT Portfolio to include:
  • IT Investments,
  • Disaster Recovery Plan, DNR’s Continuity of Operations Plan.
• Completes all relevant forms, documentation, and reports as required by WaTech Policy on an annual basis.
• Prepares all final documentation so that it is ready for signature by the commissioner of Public Lands, including:
  • Compiling all necessary, and/or relevant documentation into easily accessible packets.
  • Proofreading and giving final approval on forms, processes, and policy documentation prepared by or with other DNR ITD staff.
  • Ensures that all documentation is ready for the commissioner in alignment with WaTech deadlines.
  • Coordinates communication and implementation of changes or additions to the Agency Disaster Recovery Plan and DNR’s Continuity of Operations Plan.
• Ensure the information gathered is accurate and complies with WaTech and other State Policy and Standards.

Outcome: DNR’s IT portfolio is current, complete, and well-maintained. A thorough understanding of relevant policy, process, contract, and/or other documentation throughout the agency. Strategic goals are set, and changes to existing or newly established documentation are communicated and understood by ITD staff.

Consult, advise, develop, and manage ITD contracts and vendor management activities as requested by the vendor manager. Tasks Include:

• Collaborate with other ITD staff and/or customer representatives.
• Provide agency leadership staff with guidance and consultation on ITD contracts/ vendor management and ITD contracts.
• Coordinate with the PGS team to review contract contents.
• Develop, document, evaluate, and mitigate associated risk.
• Identify potential impacts to the agency, and the Information Technology Division regarding Vendor management policy, processes, contracts, and all other related documentation.
• Review ITD contracts ensuring compliance with all State contracting and procurement laws and regulations.
• When required, develop and manage ITD contracts on behalf of IT Division Management.
• Negotiate contract price and terms and conditions with contract bidders.
• Assist with the yearly ITD contract report. Outcome: Completed ITD Contracts that facilitate good business practices, meet the needs of the Agency while ensuring compliance with all State competitive procurement practices, contracting laws, and policies.

Assist in the development of a Change Management Process. Tasks Include:

• In conjunction with ITD Operations, participate in a project team of information technology professional staff to update and document the IT Change Management Process to guide staff and document changes made to agency technology architecture. Outcome: a cohesive, concise Change Management Process that is documented, distributed, updated and communicated to staff and customers so that they are aware of how and what should be done when making changes to our technology landscape for: Improved day-to-day operational efficiency, use of standardized methods and procedures to minimize negative impact of change-related incidents on service delivery, and a searchable repository of change documentation for troubleshooting and historical purposes. Timely and high-quality communication to our customers.

Works with Vendor Manager to develop templates for IT contracts, vendor management, training, and monitoring for ITD. Tasks Include:

• Participates in writing ITD contracts and ITD contract templates.
• Works with Vendor Manager to develop a vendor management plan.
• Creates vendor management training.
• Educates and supports contract managers with monitoring policy compliance with vendors in ITD.

Outcome: Cohesive and concise vendor management program, policies, and procedures are adhered to so that ITD is consistently applying them across all vendors.

This position is part of the IT Disaster Management Team (DMT) and will be responsible for assisting IT Management with the following activities:

• IT Disaster Management Team (DMT)
• Assess the nature and extent of the damage and determine what action to take.
• Initiate the IT Division Notification Tree.
• Assemble the IT Recovery Team as needed.
• Coordinate and monitor all recovery/restoration activities.
• Coordinate/communicate recovery activities with the Executive Emergency Management Team (EEMT).
• Coordinate activities and communicate with WaTech).
• Coordinate with the DNR Engineering Division and other agencies as needed

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in information technology, computer science, or other related field AND Seven (7) years of relevant professional IT experience;
  OR An equivalent combination of education and/or experience.
• Experience developing and writing IT policies, procedures, standards, and documenting processes.
• Experience in IT Portfolio management providing a systemic approach and guidance on IT projects, risk management, investments, and related activities.
• Experience developing and writing IT policy, procedures, standards, and documenting processes for a large organization.
• Experience in IT Portfolio management providing a systemic approach and guidance on IT projects, risk management, investments, and related activities.
• 2 years of experience in public/state policy and standards, managing IT contracts. Policy writing, review, and applying WaTech or other oversight entity standards to IT contracts meet this qualification.
• Experience resolving conflicts with multiple SMEs during SOW development or SOW amendment development to a successful resolution.
• Ability to provide leadership and advice to IT management, staff, and customers in all aspects of IT Contracting, including reviewing SOWs, providing feedback on deliverables and SOWs, and reviewing for compliance.
• 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.
• Position Specific Competencies:
  • Self-starter - takes on and completes work without prompting.
  • Demonstrated team player with a customer focus.
  • Able to work independently with little supervision.
  • Attention to detail - ensuring that they deliver complete and accurate staff work.
  • Ability to pull multiple high-level SME’s together to work on policy updates.
  • Ability to facilitate a project team of IT professionals in documenting, developing, and communicating IT processes.
• DNR Core Competencies:
  • Personal Accountability
  • Value Others
  • Compassionate Communication
  • Inspire Others
  • Commitment to Excellence

Special Requirements and Conditions of Employment:

• This position works in an office setting; the duty station is the Natural Resources Building in Olympia. This position is eligible for telework or telework-hybrid options with prior supervisor approval.
• Travel is required occasionally, for meetings and/or trainings.

Desired Qualifications:

• Knowledge of State IT Security Policy and Standards.
• Knowledge of DNR’s business, computer applications/data that support that business and basic infrastructure is desirable.
• An understanding of Agile/Scrum methodologies.
• Experience in modeling business processes using standard modeling toolsets (e.g., MS Visio).

Don’t let doubts stop you from applying for this position. If you have any questions about the required qualifications or how your experience relates to them, please contact us at DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov. A note to potential candidates: Studies have shown that women, trans, non-binary, Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) are less likely to apply for jobs unless they feel they meet every qualification as described in a job description. We value diversity and inclusion in our organization, and we are looking for the best person for the job. Don’t hesitate to apply!
Application Requirements: (Failure to provide listed documents may result in disqualification. If you have questions or difficulty attaching these documents, please contact dnrrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov.)

• Apply online: at www.careers.wa.gov (Click on the APPLY button above).
• Letter of interest: describing your specific qualifications for the position and the position required, desired, and special requirements.
• Resume: that details your experience and qualifications.
• References: 3-5 professional references with current telephone numbers, to include your 2 most recent supervisors. You may attach a document, use the References text field in the online application, or include it with your resume.
• 3 samples of the most current policies you wrote. If you have questions regarding attaching these documents, please contact dnrrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov. If you do not attach these documents, your application will not move forward in the application process.
• 3 contract or statement of Work samples that you wrote. If you have questions regarding attaching these documents, please contact dnrrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov. If you do not attach these documents, your application will not move forward in the application process
• Important: Do not attach any documents that include photos or private information (social security number, year of birth, etc.).
• Complete all supplemental questions.
• Candidates who move forward in the recruitment process may be contacted via email at info@governmentjobs.com with interview information/scheduling instructions. Please monitor the email listed in your application materials and check your junk email folder to ensure you receive those communications.

Questions? Please contact Kristy Brodersen at kristy.brodersen@dnr.wa.gov or email us at DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov

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

About the Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
At DNR, we approach our work through the lens of making Washington a better place environmentally and are dedicated to serving Washington’s lands and communities through diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Our Vision – Our actions ensure a future where Washington’s lands, waters, and communities thrive.
Our Mission – Manage, sustain, and protect the health and productivity of Washington’s lands and waters to meet the needs of present and future generations.
Our Core Values:

• Safety and Well-Being —Our top priority is the safety of the public and our employees.
• Public Service —We value and respect the public we serve, and we value and respect the people of the Department of Natural Resources who step up to serve.
• Innovation and Creative Problem-Solving — We solve our state’s most pressing challenges through innovative thinking, dedication, and bold and creative vision.
• Leadership and Teamwork —We are committed to building leaders at all levels and building teams for success.

DNR provides excellent benefits, a few of which include:

• Commitment to organizational health and wellness
• Work/life balance
• DNR Employee Resource Groups (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Council, Women’s Employee Resource Group, Veterans Employee Resource Group, etc.)
• Statewide Employee Business Resource Groups, visit here to learn more
• Leadership that empowers and supports employees
• Professional development opportunities
• Educational and career development aid
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness Eligibility
• Opportunities to participate in wildland fire suppression assignments
• A comprehensive benefits package includes employer contributions toward health insurance, paid holidays, retirement plans, sick leave, and vacation days. Visit http://careers.wa.gov/benefits.html for more information.

Additional Information:
This recruitment may be extended and used to fill future similar vacancies for up to sixty (60) days.

DNR does not use the E-Verify system. For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov.

Veterans wishing to claim Veteran’s preference, please attach a copy of your DD-214, NGB-22, or other verification of military service. Please black out your social security number before attaching it. We thank you and are grateful for your service!

Equal Opportunity Employer: The Washington State Department of Natural Resources is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation, and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons with disability, persons over 40 years of age, veterans, military spouses or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply.

Once you submit your online application, you can check your status by logging into your account. If you experience technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application, call 360-664-1960 or 1-877-664-1960 or email CareersHelp@des.wa.gov.

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