What are the responsibilities and job description for the Chief Information Officer (EMS4) position at State of Washington?
Description
We are dedicated to growing a culture of belonging through our values:
Respect | Trust | Diversity | Inclusion | Equity
This recruitment is open continuous; however, applications will be reviewed weekly therefore it is in your best interest to apply early.
The hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at any time.
At the Department of Licensing (DOL), we recognize the importance of work life harmony and strive to create a culture where employees feel valued and respected. Our employees are trusted and encouraged to be a part of process improvements that impact their work, create value for our customers and help build trust in our government.
As part of our Executive Leadership Team, we are seeking a dynamic, visionary Chief Information Officer (CIO) to provide leadership, direction, and strategic oversight in developing and implementing innovative information technology solutions that drive efficiency, performance, and operational effectiveness in achieving the agency’s mission.
As one of the most visible state agencies and the second-largest revenue generator in Washington State, we engage with over 6 million residents each year and collect nearly $3 billion in taxes and fees. We understand that our services are vital to the daily lives of our customers, enabling them to live, work, drive, and thrive. We take this responsibility to heart and are dedicated to providing equitable and meaningful access to our services for every resident.
If you are passionate about cultivating relationships both within the agency and statewide to facilitate effective collaboration, leveraging technology to drive innovation, please read on.
Duties
As the Chief Information Officer, you will direct a team of more than 120 IT experts at one of Washington’s largest state agencies. Bringing your forward-thinking technology vision and leadership for long-term IT strategy will be the key to your success. Using your knowledge of both technology and business processes, and with a cross-functional perspective, you will align the organization's technology deployment strategy with its business strategy. You will oversee technology purchases, implementation initiatives, and various related services provided by the agency's technology support staff. Maximizing the application of advanced computer technology and the capabilities of an integrated automated system to increase efficiency, improve performance, and maintain operational effectiveness at minimal cost will be just one of your responsibilities in this role.
Some Of What You Will Be Doing
Qualifications
What you will bring to the position:
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 award-winning diverse and inclusive organization.
A paycheck is just part of a total compensation package. We offer some of the nation’s best benefits.
We value diverse perspectives and life experiences.
We employ and serve people of all backgrounds including people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ , people with disabilities, and veterans. We value the unique traits and attributes that each employee brings to the job. Through the diverse perspectives of an inclusive workforce, we will create a more respectful, productive, and unified team to better serve the public of Washington.
Veteran/Military Spouse Preference Notice
To take advantage of veteran/military spouse preference, email the Talent Acquisition team. Please include the title of this position in the subject line.
The Washington State Department of Licensing is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, religion, sex (including gender identity), 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 dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability.
Persons requiring accommodation in the application process, during the recruitment process, or who need this job announcement in an alternative format, may contact the Human Resources Office at 360-902-4000 or may email HRRecruit@dol.wa.gov. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call our ASL interpreter via Video Phone at 360.339.7344.
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.
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 07-21-2025
01
In this role, you will have the opportunity to engage with a diverse group of teammates, customers, and partners. How will you leverage your understanding of cultural differences to foster an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and has the opportunity to succeed?
02
Do You Have The Following (select All That Apply)
Do you have the ability to: (select all that apply)
Where did you learn of this vacancy?
If you answered "other" to the preceding question, please indicate where you learned of the vacancy in the space below.
06
I understand to be considered for this position I must attach my current resume and a cover letter detailing my qualifications for the role and provide specific examples that illustrate my ability to fulfill the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
We are dedicated to growing a culture of belonging through our values:
Respect | Trust | Diversity | Inclusion | Equity
This recruitment is open continuous; however, applications will be reviewed weekly therefore it is in your best interest to apply early.
The hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at any time.
At the Department of Licensing (DOL), we recognize the importance of work life harmony and strive to create a culture where employees feel valued and respected. Our employees are trusted and encouraged to be a part of process improvements that impact their work, create value for our customers and help build trust in our government.
As part of our Executive Leadership Team, we are seeking a dynamic, visionary Chief Information Officer (CIO) to provide leadership, direction, and strategic oversight in developing and implementing innovative information technology solutions that drive efficiency, performance, and operational effectiveness in achieving the agency’s mission.
As one of the most visible state agencies and the second-largest revenue generator in Washington State, we engage with over 6 million residents each year and collect nearly $3 billion in taxes and fees. We understand that our services are vital to the daily lives of our customers, enabling them to live, work, drive, and thrive. We take this responsibility to heart and are dedicated to providing equitable and meaningful access to our services for every resident.
If you are passionate about cultivating relationships both within the agency and statewide to facilitate effective collaboration, leveraging technology to drive innovation, please read on.
Duties
As the Chief Information Officer, you will direct a team of more than 120 IT experts at one of Washington’s largest state agencies. Bringing your forward-thinking technology vision and leadership for long-term IT strategy will be the key to your success. Using your knowledge of both technology and business processes, and with a cross-functional perspective, you will align the organization's technology deployment strategy with its business strategy. You will oversee technology purchases, implementation initiatives, and various related services provided by the agency's technology support staff. Maximizing the application of advanced computer technology and the capabilities of an integrated automated system to increase efficiency, improve performance, and maintain operational effectiveness at minimal cost will be just one of your responsibilities in this role.
Some Of What You Will Be Doing
- Serve on DOL’s Executive Leadership Team, serving as a key contributor to the agency’s strategic direction.
- Provide technology vision and leadership for developing, implementing, and governing strategic information technology initiatives for the agency that create and maintain services in a constantly changing and intensely competitive marketplace.
- Administer several highly complex, mission-critical systems. Coordinate maintenance and operations to ensure the agency does not fall into technical debt.
- Serve as main point of contact with technology vendors, securing timely, cost-effective service while fostering productive, long-term relationships.
- Oversee DOL’s Information Security Office, responsible for safeguarding DOL’s systems and data against threat actors.
- Direct the development of budget and resource plans consistent with agency and program goals, and legislative requirements.
- Assess feasibility for new technology responsive to DOL’s evolving business needs.
- Consult executive management on topics, including system development, software and hardware products, cost effectiveness, quality control, equipment requirements, and staffing.
- Ensure the agency's technology and business needs are represented at an enterprise level.
Qualifications
What you will bring to the position:
- Strong strategic leadership, technological, and management skills.
- Significant knowledge of information technology and the ability to integrate disparate technology systems to establish complete system solutions in support of business processes.
- Strong planning skills and the ability to develop and carry out long-range technological planning.
- Analytical thinking skills to create innovative solutions and implementation methods.
- Advanced oral and written communication skills.
- Sound judgment and a sense of fairness.
- Excellent facilitation, conflict resolution, and teambuilding skills.
- The ability to:
- Lead and manage a large, diverse service delivery support organization in a dynamic technological environment.
- Think strategically, providing organizational direction and resource management.
- Understand complex principles and dynamics associated with the information technology industry within state government.
- Inspire staff to achieve their potential and perform well, and to set a progressive and supportive culture for the division.
- Influence executive peers in guiding decision-making for technology.
- Work collaboratively and develop partnerships with various entities and build consensus among diverse stakeholders.
- Communicate with diverse stakeholders, including executive-level business and governmental leaders as well as the most technical personnel.
- Understand and follow agency values of respect, trust, diversity, equity, and inclusion through behaviors, and decisions.
- Promote and support a respectful, equitable, and inclusive workplace for all employees.
- Promote and support respectful, equitable, and inclusive delivery of services to customers.
- Take action to learn and grow.
- Take action to meet the needs of others.
- Experience may be gained concurrently *
- The ability to work in-person three days a week or more as business needs arise.
- The ability to travel overnight and out of state.
- Prior to a new hire, a pre-employment screening that includes a criminal record history check will be conducted. These findings may not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant’s suitability and competence to perform in the position.
For information about this position, available accommodations, or the interview process, contact Dawn Loduha.
Supplemental Information
Come join us in changing the way government delivers services and help build a legacy of commitment to and excellence in diversity, equity, and inclusion!
How To Apply
- Select the Apply button at the top of this job announcement.
- Attach the following to your application using the 'add attachments' option:
- Your current resume
- A cover letter detailing your qualifications for the role and providing specific examples that illustrate your ability to fulfill the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
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 award-winning diverse and inclusive organization.
A paycheck is just part of a total compensation package. We offer some of the nation’s best benefits.
We value diverse perspectives and life experiences.
We employ and serve people of all backgrounds including people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ , people with disabilities, and veterans. We value the unique traits and attributes that each employee brings to the job. Through the diverse perspectives of an inclusive workforce, we will create a more respectful, productive, and unified team to better serve the public of Washington.
Veteran/Military Spouse Preference Notice
To take advantage of veteran/military spouse preference, email the Talent Acquisition team. Please include the title of this position in the subject line.
The Washington State Department of Licensing is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, religion, sex (including gender identity), 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 dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability.
Persons requiring accommodation in the application process, during the recruitment process, or who need this job announcement in an alternative format, may contact the Human Resources Office at 360-902-4000 or may email HRRecruit@dol.wa.gov. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call our ASL interpreter via Video Phone at 360.339.7344.
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.
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 07-21-2025
01
In this role, you will have the opportunity to engage with a diverse group of teammates, customers, and partners. How will you leverage your understanding of cultural differences to foster an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and has the opportunity to succeed?
02
Do You Have The Following (select All That Apply)
- Strong strategic leadership, technological, and management skills.
- Significant knowledge of information technology and the ability to integrate disparate technology systems to establish complete system solutions in support of business processes
- Strong planning skills and the ability to develop and carry out long-range technological planning.
- Analytical thinking skills to create innovative solutions and implementation methods.
- Advanced oral and written communication skills.
- Sound judgment and a sense of fairness.
- Excellent facilitation, conflict resolution, and teambuilding skills
- None of these.
Do you have the ability to: (select all that apply)
- Lead and manage a large, diverse service delivery support organization in a dynamic technological environment.
- Think strategically, providing organizational direction and resource management.
- Understand complex principles and dynamics associated with the information technology industry within state government.
- Inspire staff to achieve their potential and perform well, and to set a progressive and supportive culture for the division.
- Influence executive peers in guiding decision-making for technology.
- Work collaboratively and develop partnerships with various entities and build consensus among diverse stakeholders.
- Communicate with diverse stakeholders, including executive-level business and governmental leaders as well as the most technical personnel.
- Understand and follow agency values of respect, trust, diversity, equity, and inclusion through behaviors, and decisions.
- Promote and support a respectful, equitable, and inclusive workplace for all employees.
- Promote and support respectful, equitable, and inclusive delivery of services to customers.
- Take action to learn and grow.
- Take action to meet the needs of others.
- None of these.
Where did you learn of this vacancy?
- careers.wa.gov
- DOL jobs pages
- Hiring event/workshop
- Indeed.com
- VERG event
- Word of mouth
- Other
If you answered "other" to the preceding question, please indicate where you learned of the vacancy in the space below.
06
I understand to be considered for this position I must attach my current resume and a cover letter detailing my qualifications for the role and provide specific examples that illustrate my ability to fulfill the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
- Yes
- No
- Required Question
Salary : $3