What are the responsibilities and job description for the Employment Specialist 3 Non-Perm Grays Harbor position at State of Washington?
Description
Please note: This position is being reposted with new qualifications.
This is a non-permanent position anticipated to last 12 months.
The salary listed above includes the scheduled 2% general salary increase that goes into effect on July 1, 2026.
The ideal candidate for the Employment Specialist 3 role is a resourceful, customer-focused professional who is passionate about helping individuals and communities thrive through meaningful employment. They bring a strong commitment to equity, access, and high-quality service, ensuring every job seeker and employer receives the support they need to move forward.
This position is based on-site Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Grays Harbor College, 1620 Edward P. Smith Drive, Aberdeen, WA — Building 2000, Room 2315. The ideal candidate embraces the value of in-person collaboration and community engagement, contributing to a welcoming environment where customers can access comprehensive employment and training services.
This candidate excels in direct service delivery, whether working one-on-one with customers, facilitating group workshops, or engaging employers to understand their hiring needs. They are confident navigating multiple programs, tools, and service pathways, and they adapt quickly as customer needs shift throughout the day.
Above all, this candidate is motivated by the belief that connecting people to employment strengthens families, businesses, and communities. They are ready to partner with job seekers, employers, and community organizations to support economic stability and opportunity in Grays Harbor.
About The Workforce Services Division:
Workforce Services Division (WSD) is made up of three Lines of Business: WorkSource, Central Operations System Support, and Washington Service Corps (WSC). WSD administers the Labor Exchange (LEX), Migrant Seasonal Farmworker (MSFW), Veterans Services, Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA), and WorkFirst and RESEA programs for job seekers and employers in Washington and provides job seekers with referrals to partners providing Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act (WIOA) adult, youth, and dislocated worker training and support services.
Duties
As an Employment Specialist 3, you’ll provide routine, customer-centered employment services designed to help individuals achieve their career goals. You will assess knowledge, skills, and abilities to determine appropriate employment and training activities and benefits. This role involves performing records management functions in accordance with agency and program procedures, facilitating orientations and workshops, and developing and maintaining relationships with businesses, partners, and other service providers. This role is located in Aberdeen, Washington and requires in-person attendance reporting to the WorkSource Grays Harbor Office.
Some of your daily tasks include but not limited to:
To request a detailed position description, click here.
Qualifying candidates will meet one of the following criteria options:
Option 1:
Please submit your Cover Letter and Resume with your Online Application through the "Add Attachments" field. A resume will not substitute for the "work experience" section of the application or vice versa. Applications with blank fields, or supplemental question responses with comments such as "see attachments" may be considered incomplete.
Supplemental Information
Why work with us?
Our agency's mission and values drive every decision that we make, determine how we interact with others, and are at the core of who we are. We value Access, Love, Belonging, Equity, and Stewardship. We understand that a work environment that respects your work/life balance is key; that's why many of our positions are eligible for flexible work schedules and teleworking opportunities. Through support, value, and trust, our employees are empowered to grow and develop into their best self.
Opportunity for All
We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, ethnic, racial, religious, sexual orientation, and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, people with disabilities, people over 40 years of age, people with religious beliefs, veterans or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply.
The Employment Security Department is an equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.
If you are a person needing assistance in the application process, if you need this job announcement in an alternate format, or if you have general questions about this opportunity, please contact Lydia White or at 360-819-6996 or the Talent Acquisition Team, prior to the position closing. If you are having technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application, please contact careershelp@des.wa.gov or (360) 664-1960 or toll free (877) 664-1960, Washington Relay 711.
This recruitment may be used to fill additional agency-wide positions in accordance with Article 4 of the WFSE Collective Bargaining Agreement.
**This Organization Participates in E-Verify**
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 01-07-2026
01
In order to be considered for this position, you must include a resume and a cover letter with your application. Please click below to indicate you have attached the required documentation.
Are you a current or former State of Washington employee?
If you answered "yes" to the question above, please indicate which state agency(ies) you have worked for. If this does not apply to you, type N/A.
04
Please Select The Option That Best Describes How You Meet The Minimum Qualifications For The WorkSource Specialist 3 Position. Select All That Apply:
Please describe your experience as it relates to the position. What types of experience in workforce development, social or human resource services, public relations, or public contact work, such as: unemployment insurance, social services, human resource services, education, benefits programs, insurance claims, law enforcement and/or banking do you have? Please include/cite where you obtained this experience.
06
For each required competency listed below, provide a brief explanation of how you have demonstrated that competency in your previous roles. You must address each competency in a numbered list (1–7). If you do not possess a competency, state that clearly. Your application will be evaluated based on your responses to all competencies. The required Competencies are: 1. Employment Coaching Expertise: Ability to provide career guidance and training. 2. Workforce Development Knowledge: Proficiency in outlining employment options. 3. Data Management Expertise: Ability to track job seeker and employer interactions systematically. 4. Employment Support and Referral Expertise: Ability to assess job seekers’ needs effectively. 5. Problem-Solving Skills: Proficiency in finding solutions and directing individuals to the correct services. 6. Customer Assistance Skills: Proficiency in guiding individuals through digital job search platforms. 7. Customer Satisfaction and Follow-Up Expertise: Ability to assess job seekers' experiences and service outcomes.
07
How did you hear about this job opportunity?
Please note: This position is being reposted with new qualifications.
This is a non-permanent position anticipated to last 12 months.
The salary listed above includes the scheduled 2% general salary increase that goes into effect on July 1, 2026.
The ideal candidate for the Employment Specialist 3 role is a resourceful, customer-focused professional who is passionate about helping individuals and communities thrive through meaningful employment. They bring a strong commitment to equity, access, and high-quality service, ensuring every job seeker and employer receives the support they need to move forward.
This position is based on-site Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Grays Harbor College, 1620 Edward P. Smith Drive, Aberdeen, WA — Building 2000, Room 2315. The ideal candidate embraces the value of in-person collaboration and community engagement, contributing to a welcoming environment where customers can access comprehensive employment and training services.
This candidate excels in direct service delivery, whether working one-on-one with customers, facilitating group workshops, or engaging employers to understand their hiring needs. They are confident navigating multiple programs, tools, and service pathways, and they adapt quickly as customer needs shift throughout the day.
Above all, this candidate is motivated by the belief that connecting people to employment strengthens families, businesses, and communities. They are ready to partner with job seekers, employers, and community organizations to support economic stability and opportunity in Grays Harbor.
About The Workforce Services Division:
Workforce Services Division (WSD) is made up of three Lines of Business: WorkSource, Central Operations System Support, and Washington Service Corps (WSC). WSD administers the Labor Exchange (LEX), Migrant Seasonal Farmworker (MSFW), Veterans Services, Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA), and WorkFirst and RESEA programs for job seekers and employers in Washington and provides job seekers with referrals to partners providing Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act (WIOA) adult, youth, and dislocated worker training and support services.
Duties
As an Employment Specialist 3, you’ll provide routine, customer-centered employment services designed to help individuals achieve their career goals. You will assess knowledge, skills, and abilities to determine appropriate employment and training activities and benefits. This role involves performing records management functions in accordance with agency and program procedures, facilitating orientations and workshops, and developing and maintaining relationships with businesses, partners, and other service providers. This role is located in Aberdeen, Washington and requires in-person attendance reporting to the WorkSource Grays Harbor Office.
Some of your daily tasks include but not limited to:
- Provide staff-assisted customer services; conduct group and individual in-depth interviews, partial and full registrations, and review job readiness, employment barriers and customer needs; administer skill, interest, and aptitude tests using formal tools; identify employment and/or training goals; develop and monitor service plans; develop recommendations for continuous engagement.
- Provide information about the full range of agency services and programs; direct to appropriate internal or external resources and/or support services; provide for continuous engagement. Provide career and/or employment guidance and training information; refer customers to job search, training providers and/or resources through WorkSource and/or partner services.
- Assist customers in the use of resource center services including technology, resumes, applications, and interview skills training.
- Provide appropriate support services and/or make referrals; identify and evaluate barriers and explore solutions to assist in removing barriers; assist in obtaining needed documentation.
- Record and maintain case notes, service plans, and exit outcomes; coordinate with other employment and training programs as necessary; enter new and/or updated data in multiple data management systems.
- Enroll qualified customers into basic Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Title 1 services.
- Provide basic information on how to apply for unemployment benefits; direct UI customer concerns, issues and problems to the liaison or supervisor; conduct one-to-one interviews.
To request a detailed position description, click here.
Qualifying candidates will meet one of the following criteria options:
Option 1:
- One year (1) as a WorkSource Specialist 2 within the Employment Security Department, or in an equivalent class with another state’s Employment Security agency.
- Two years (2) years of professional experience in workforce development, social or human resource services, public relations, or professional public contact work.
- A combination of education and/or relevant experience equals two (2) or more years.
- Employment Coaching Expertise: Ability to provide career guidance and training.
- Workforce Development Knowledge: Proficiency in outlining employment options.
- Data Management Expertise: Ability to track job seeker and employer interactions systematically.
- Employment Support and Referral Expertise: Ability to assess job seekers’ needs effectively.
- Problem-Solving Skills: Proficiency in finding solutions and directing individuals to the correct services.
- Customer Assistance Skills: Proficiency in guiding individuals through digital job search platforms.
- Customer Satisfaction and Follow-Up Expertise: Ability to assess job seekers' experiences and service outcomes.
- The ability to take action to learn and grow.
- The ability to take action to meet the needs of others.
- Must be able to pass an Unemployment Insurance (UI) and Paid Family Medical and Leave (PFML) claim and fraud check.
Please submit your Cover Letter and Resume with your Online Application through the "Add Attachments" field. A resume will not substitute for the "work experience" section of the application or vice versa. Applications with blank fields, or supplemental question responses with comments such as "see attachments" may be considered incomplete.
Supplemental Information
Why work with us?
Our agency's mission and values drive every decision that we make, determine how we interact with others, and are at the core of who we are. We value Access, Love, Belonging, Equity, and Stewardship. We understand that a work environment that respects your work/life balance is key; that's why many of our positions are eligible for flexible work schedules and teleworking opportunities. Through support, value, and trust, our employees are empowered to grow and develop into their best self.
Opportunity for All
We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, ethnic, racial, religious, sexual orientation, and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, people with disabilities, people over 40 years of age, people with religious beliefs, veterans or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply.
The Employment Security Department is an equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.
If you are a person needing assistance in the application process, if you need this job announcement in an alternate format, or if you have general questions about this opportunity, please contact Lydia White or at 360-819-6996 or the Talent Acquisition Team, prior to the position closing. If you are having technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application, please contact careershelp@des.wa.gov or (360) 664-1960 or toll free (877) 664-1960, Washington Relay 711.
This recruitment may be used to fill additional agency-wide positions in accordance with Article 4 of the WFSE Collective Bargaining Agreement.
**This Organization Participates in E-Verify**
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 01-07-2026
01
In order to be considered for this position, you must include a resume and a cover letter with your application. Please click below to indicate you have attached the required documentation.
- Yes
- No
Are you a current or former State of Washington employee?
- Yes
- No
If you answered "yes" to the question above, please indicate which state agency(ies) you have worked for. If this does not apply to you, type N/A.
04
Please Select The Option That Best Describes How You Meet The Minimum Qualifications For The WorkSource Specialist 3 Position. Select All That Apply:
- One year as a WorkSource Specialist 2 within the Employment Security Department, or in an equivalent class with another state’s Employment Security agency.
- Two years of professional experience in workforce development, social or human resource services, public relations, or professional public contact work.
- A combination of education and/or relevant experience equals two or more years.
- I do not have this experience.
Please describe your experience as it relates to the position. What types of experience in workforce development, social or human resource services, public relations, or public contact work, such as: unemployment insurance, social services, human resource services, education, benefits programs, insurance claims, law enforcement and/or banking do you have? Please include/cite where you obtained this experience.
06
For each required competency listed below, provide a brief explanation of how you have demonstrated that competency in your previous roles. You must address each competency in a numbered list (1–7). If you do not possess a competency, state that clearly. Your application will be evaluated based on your responses to all competencies. The required Competencies are: 1. Employment Coaching Expertise: Ability to provide career guidance and training. 2. Workforce Development Knowledge: Proficiency in outlining employment options. 3. Data Management Expertise: Ability to track job seeker and employer interactions systematically. 4. Employment Support and Referral Expertise: Ability to assess job seekers’ needs effectively. 5. Problem-Solving Skills: Proficiency in finding solutions and directing individuals to the correct services. 6. Customer Assistance Skills: Proficiency in guiding individuals through digital job search platforms. 7. Customer Satisfaction and Follow-Up Expertise: Ability to assess job seekers' experiences and service outcomes.
07
How did you hear about this job opportunity?
- WWW.Careers.Wa.Gov
- WorkSource Center or Website (WorkSourceWA.com)
- Washington State Employee Referral
- ESD Employee Referral
- Employment Security Department's job web page: WWW.Esd.Wa.Gov
- Monster
- College/university career fair or website
- VERG
- Craigslist
- CareerBuilder
- Diversity Jobs
- Handshake
- Other
- Required Question