Associate Director for Equity, Organizational Culture and Human Resources

Associate Director for Equity, Organizational Culture and Human Resources

Salary

$74,292.00 - $100,513.00 Annually

Location

Thurston County - Olympia, WA

Job Type

Exempt

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

WSAC 07-2026

Department

Washington Student Achievement Council

Opening Date

05/08/2026

Closing Date

Continuous

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Description

This position will remain open until a sufficient number of qualified candidates have applied. The first review of applications is expected to begin on 05/27/2026 and will continue. Applicants should submit their application materials as early as possible. The hiring manager reserves the right to make a hiring decision at any time. This job posting may be closed at any time without notice.

Why work for the Washington Student Achievement Council?

At the Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC), we are committed to increasing educational opportunities and attainment in Washington. We believe that every person living in the state of Washington should have access to educational opportunities and be encouraged to pursue education or training beyond high school. To achieve our mission, we:

• Lead statewide strategic planning to increase educational attainment.
• Administer programs that help people access and pay for college.
• Advocate for the economic, social, and civic benefits of higher education.

Learn more about the work of the Washington Student Achievement Council and our equity statement(Download PDF reader).

At WSAC

Our programs and policies work with diverse communities to eliminate barriers to people pursuing education beyond high school. As an employer, we strive to hire, cultivate, and retain a competitive workforce that reflects the communities we serve.

• We offer flexible/alternative work schedules, wellness activities, and teleworking opportunities.
• Eligible employees who are new parents or legal guardians can bring their infant (six weeks to six months) when returning to work.
• Employees have access to tuition assistance and tuition waiver programs,
• If you have experience advocating for communities of color or others who are experiencing educational inequities, including those directly impacted by the criminal justice system, people who identify as queer, trans, lesbian, gay or bisexual, veterans, and people with disabilities, you are strongly encouraged to apply, even if you don't meet all the desired/preferred qualifications listed.

About the Equity, Organizational Culture & Human Resources Division

The Equity, Organizational Culture & Human Resources Division is a collaborative and continually developing team that supports WSAC's people, culture, and mission. We partner with leaders and staff across the agency to navigate the day-to-day realities of public service work while helping build a workplace that is inclusive, equitable, and supportive.

Our work includes recruitment, employee relations, leave and accommodation support, organizational development, policy guidance, and culture-building efforts. We strive to provide responsive service, thoughtful partnership, and equity-centered practices.

Through collaboration, transparency, and continuous improvement, we aim to foster an organizational culture where employees can grow, contribute meaningfully, and feel connected to WSAC's mission and values.

About the Associate Director Position

Reporting to the Director of Equity, Organizational Culture & Human Resources, the Associate Director serves as both a strategic partner and a hands-on human resources professional. This position combines operational leadership with strategic guidance to advance equitable, people-centered HR practices and internal DEIB initiatives across the agency.

The Associate Director provides expert consultation and support to supervisors and staff on a broad range of human resources matters, including leave administration, accommodations, employee relations, performance management, and policy interpretation. The role also helps ensure compliance with federal and state employment laws and agency policies, including programs such as FMLA, shared leave, and reasonable accommodations.

As a key member of the HR team, the Associate Director contributes to agency-wide strategic planning, workforce development, and organizational culture initiatives that support WSAC's mission and values. This position collaborates with agency leadership to develop forward-thinking HR practices that foster employee engagement, accountability, a sense of belonging, and operational excellence.

The Director of Equity, Organizational Culture & Human Resources provides leadership, mentorship, and partnership to support the Associate Director in successfully carrying out the agency's human resources responsibilities and strategic priorities.

Duties

Some of what you will do includes:

Strategic HR Consultation and Supervisor Support

• Collaborate with managers to develop professional development plans aligned with the agency's values and goals.
• Provide expert guidance on position classification, performance coaching, progressive discipline, and conflict resolution.
• Support HR and agency-wide priorities that drive equitable talent management and organizational effectiveness.

Equitable Recruitment, Hiring, and Onboarding Leadership

• Partner with hiring managers to design inclusive position descriptions, interview questions, and evaluation tools that mitigate bias.
• Lead the development of recruitment strategies that expand the diversity and quality of applicant pools.
• Facilitate evidence-based interview and selection training for hiring teams.
• Design and deliver onboarding experiences that connect new hires to WSAC's mission, culture, and strategic goals.

Organizational Culture and Learning Development

• Lead learning sessions and all-staff meetings that foster shared values and collective learning.
• Create DEIB communications, resource hubs, and internal campaigns to build shared ownership of equity goals.
• Evaluate recruitment and onboarding effectiveness; adjust strategies based on data and feedback.
• Conduct focus groups, surveys, and exit interviews, and translate the results into actionable recommendations.

HR Policy Development and Program Oversight

• Draft, revise, and train staff on HR policies that reflect legal compliance, operational consistency, and Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) principles.
• Guide employees and managers in applying HR policies with equity and clarity.
• Manage accommodation and leave programs, ensuring timely and inclusive support processes are in place.
• Collaborate with providers and internal leaders to design sustainable solutions for complex personnel matters.
• Ensure accurate HRMS reporting and completion of mandatory staff training.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Exceptional written communication (assessed via application materials).
• Intermediate-to-advanced Excel skills (e.g., formulas, charts, and data visualization).
• Demonstrated ability to use data and evidence to drive equitable HR strategies and support organizational impact. [Tied data use directly to mission and equity.]
• Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and the ability to apply an equity-centered lens to the work of the Associate Director.
• Experience resolving complex personnel issues while promoting organizational learning and inclusion.
• Strong project management and organizational skills.
• Four (4)+ years of combined education and/or experience, including:
• HR work in recruitment, DEI, accommodations, employee relations, or workforce planning;
• Application of employment laws, rules, and policy interpretation;
• Network building in DEIB or talent strategy communities;
• Facilitating inclusive training or staff development experiences;
• Coursework or degree in HR, organizational development, social/behavioral science, education, or a related field (education may substitute year-for-year for experience).

We encourage you to apply even if you do not have many of the preferred qualifications below:

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced training in DEIB, organizational behavior, or adult learning.
• Experience leading agency-wide DEIB implementation or culture change efforts.
• Proficiency in HRIS systems and workforce analytics.
• HR credential (e.g., SHRM, HRCI).
• In-depth knowledge of employment laws and best practices at the state and federal levels.

Supplemental Information

To be considered for this position, you must possess the required qualifications listed above. Find this job posting and complete your profile at www.careers.wa.gov. A complete application package includes:

• Letter of Application. A letter of application that addresses how you meet the required education and experience described in this announcement. Applications with generic cover letters will be considered nonresponsive and may be eliminated from further consideration.
• Resume. A detailed resume including all educational and professional experience.
• References. A list of names, titles, and current telephone numbers of three (3) employment references.
• Your responses to the supplemental questions.

Please note: Prior to a new hire, a background check, including criminal record 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.

QUESTIONS?

For questions about this recruitment, email KarenM@wsac.wa.gov

EEO Statement

The Washington Student Achievement Council is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all applicants and employees. We are committed to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons with disabilities, persons over 40 years of age, and veterans are encouraged to apply. If you need accommodation in the application process or wish to receive this job announcement in an alternative format, please call 360.485.1138 or email " style=" color:inherit!important; text-decoration: underline !important;">HumanResources@wsac.wa.gov.

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

How did you learn of this employment opportunity?

• WSAC website
• Careers.wa.gov
• Social Media
• Other

02

If you selected "Other" in the previous question, How did you learn about this employment opportunity?

03

How have you experienced, supported, or led equity, diversity, and inclusion initiatives in your current or previous roles?

04

How many years of combined professional experience and/or related education do you have in human resources, organizational development, DEIB, workforce planning, or a related field?

• Less than 4 years
• 4-5 years
• 6-7 years
• 8-10 years
• More than 10 years

05

Which best describes your experience using Excel or similar tools to analyze and present workforce or operational data?

• Basic spreadsheets and data entry
• Formulas and sorting/filtering
• Pivot tables, charts, or dashboards
• Advanced reporting and data visualization
• Extensive workforce analytics/reporting experience

06

Please describe your experience interpreting and applying employment laws, policies, collective bargaining agreements, or workplace procedures.

07

Select all the areas you have professional-level experience

• Recruiting and Hiring
• Employee Relations
• Accommodation and Leave Administration
• Performance Management or Corrective Action
• Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) initiatives
• Workforce Planning
• Training Facilitation or Staff development
• HR Data Analysis and Reporting
• None of the above

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