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State of Washington

Cannabis Licensing Specialist Supervisor (Licensing Specialist Supervisor)

State of Washington, Olympia, WA, United States


Salary : $50,328.00 - $67,716.00 Annually

Location : Thurston County - Olympia, WA

Job Type: Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number: 2024-3028-12091

Department: Liquor and Cannabis Board

Division: Licensing and Regulations

Opening Date: 10/25/2024

Description

WSLCB Vision

Safe communities for Washington State.

Mission

Promote public safety, public health and trust through fair administration, education and enforcement of liquor, tobacco, cannabis and vapor laws.

This recruitment is open until filled. First review of applications will be November 1st, 2024- please submit an application on or before October 31st, 2024. The hiring authority reserves the right and may exercise the option to make a hiring decision at any time. We encourage all to apply as early as possible.

This position is currently eligible to telework. This position is required to work in the office at least 2 day a week. This may change based on business needs.

Who we are

The mission of the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (WSLCB) is to promote public safety and trust through fair administration, education and enforcement of liquor, cannabis, tobacco, and vapor laws. We search for people who demonstrate a strong work ethic, excellence in customer service, partnering and teamwork, and quality performance.

We want to create a culture that fosters excellence in customer service, open and honest communication, transparency and accountability, data driven decisions, and business-initiated process improvement.

Our commitment to DEIB

The WSLCB strives to promote Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB)in all aspects of our work. This includes a commitment to our workforce and external stakeholders. It is our mission to build, educate, and inspire an inclusive environment that recognizes, respects, and celebrates diversity in the workplace and in the community we serve. We are committed to maintaining a thriving culture where employees and those we serve feel safe and accepted regardless of education, background, or beliefs. As a WSLCB team member, you will have opportunity to join statewide business resource groups (BRGs) such as, Rainbow Alliance and Inclusion Network, Veteran Employee Resource Group, Latino Leadership Network, Blacks United in Leadership and Diversity, Disability Inclusion Network, Washington Immigrant Network and Hawaiians, Asians, and Pacific Islanders Promoting an Empowerment Network.

Your opportunity at a glance

The WSLCB Licensing and Regulation Division is announcing an exciting opportunity for a Licensing Specialist Supervisor positioninOlympia, WA. This position reports to the Cannabis Manager in the WSLCB's Licensing and Regulation Division. The position serves and complements the WSLCB's mission and goals by educating licensees and future licensees on cannabis laws.

In this position, you will supervise a team of licensing specialist seniors who ensure that licensees meet minimum requirements for licensure and change applications. You will set expectations, monitor progress, and promote staff development. The position will emphasize continuous improvement processes in cannabis licensing.

If you are interested in a supervisory position in the licensing regulations area supporting the cannabis unit, where you will use your problem-solving skills in an accurate, timely, and reliable fashion with a focus on process improvement, we encourage you to apply to be a part of the WSLCB team!

WSLCB provides a modern work environment and excellent benefits including:
  • A comprehensive (including but not limited to Medical/Dental/Vision, Long Term Disability, Life Insurance etc.)
  • Paid
  • (enrollment in courses at state universities/colleges on a space availability basis - all or a portion of the tuition/fees may be waived for state employees)
  • Tuition reimbursement (courses taken with prior approval in order to further employee's career development with the WSLCB)
  • Training and career development programs (including online courses and LinkedIn Learning)
  • A healthy work/life balance (this may include flexible/alternative work schedules and telework/remote work opportunities, when possible)
  • - confidential program created to promote the health, safety and well-being of public service employees
  • Generous wellness program (we offer reimbursements for certain fitness related activities)
  • Onsite exercise facility (for employees working at WSLCB Headquarter Building in Olympia)
  • Infants at Work Program to promote parent and infant bonding, parental well-being and healthy infant development. Depending on your job duties, work location and supervisor approval, eligible employees who are new mothers, fathers or legal guardians can bring their infant (six weeks to six months) when they return to work
  • Free parking
Duties

Some of the duties you will perform are:
  • Supervises, monitors and coordinates activities and processes of a licensing program(s); examines non-standard and unusual license applications and accompanying legal documents referred by staff and assist in problem solving. Provide specific or general instructions to assigned staff.
  • Review completed work product for compliance with State laws and rules, and agency policies and procedures.
  • Provides leadership and guidance. Directs and assists staff functioning on challenging licensing problems, questions, or concerns in liaison with other state, local or federal agencies to obtain information to verify or coordinate statutory and WAC rule requirements or to resolve problems.
  • Consults with, assists, and provides expertise to staff, license applicants, the public, government officials, attorneys, and others on technical matters involving applicable statutes, regulations, laws, policies, and procedures in the form of oral and written licensing information to licensees, applicants, and agency staff. Support and enhance employees' expertise to maintain and develop knowledge, skill, abilities, and attitudes that promote excellence and quality outcomes.
  • Support and engage staff on issues related to diversity, equity, and inclusion to provide a high level of service to the diverse citizens of Washington State and to support a diverse staff team.
  • Collaborates with other departments to determine how the cannabis unit support their respective departments/units.
  • Establishes work procedures, prepares work schedules and determines methods for expediting workflow and ensure calls are answered in a timely, efficient, and knowledgeable manner; provide continual evaluation of processes and procedures.
  • Mentor, trains staff to develop proficient work habits that reflect the agency goals.
  • Evaluate the success of training exercises and determine additional training needs.
  • Summarizes and compiles monthly statistics on staff productivity; composes correspondence to licensees, applicants, and agency staff.
  • Represents unit manager at meetings and acts in place of manager during absences; provides training and other presentations to agency staff, other agencies and/or the public.
Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

See below for how you may qualify.

Option 1:

Four (4) years of experience that includes analyzing and/or interpreting financial documents, or laws and regulations for license qualification issuance, or interviewing and/or research/review duties involving public contact.

Option 2:

Three (3) years of lead or supervisory experience within a regulatory environment.

Option 3:

Equivalent combination of education/experience.

Preferred/Desired Qualifications:
  • Four or more years of supervisory experience.
  • Four or more years' experience analyzing data to inform work.
  • Demonstrated skills to effectively motivate staff.
  • Understanding of change management and how to lead staff through significant changes.
  • Strong interpersonal communication skills both verbally and in writing.
  • Demonstrated ability to evaluate and resolve complex issues.
  • Ability to read, understand, interpret and apply complex laws, policies and procedures.
  • Ability to maintain positive public relations.
  • An Associate of Arts degree involving major study in accounting, finance, business or public administration, criminal justice, or related field.


Supplemental Information

HOW TO APPLYPLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION CAREFULLY TO ENSURE YOU HAVE SUBMITTED THE REQUIRED MATERIALS TO BE CONSIDERED.

IMPORTANT: To be considered for this position, you MUST include the following, failure to do so will result in your application being disqualified:
  1. Completed online application.
  2. Current Resume.
  3. Letter of Interest describing how you meet the specific qualifications for the position.
  4. Three professional references to include a current or recent supervisor with email addresses and phone numbers.
**A resume will not substitute for completing the "work experience" section of the application.The information provided in your application and supplemental questionnaire must support your selected answers in the supplemental questions. Responses not supported in your application will disqualify you for consideration of employment from this recruitment.

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 applicant's suitability and competence to perform in the position.
OtherApplicants for employment with the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board should also be aware of RCW 66.08.080, which states in part: "No employee of the board shall have any interest, directly or indirectly, in the manufacture of liquor sold under this title, or derive any profit or remuneration from the sale of liquor, other than the salary or wages payable to him in respect of his office or position, and shall receive no gratuity from any person in connection with such business.

RCW 69.50.351, no member of the state liquor and cannabis board and no employee of the state liquor and cannabis board shall have any interest, directly or indirectly, in the producing, processing, or sale of cannabis, useable cannabis, or cannabis-infused products, or derive any profit or remuneration from the sale of cannabis, useable cannabis, or cannabis-infused products other than the salary or wages payable to him or her in respect of his or her office or position, and shall receive no gratuity from any person in connection with the business.

The Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from job seekers with diverse backgrounds. Honoring diversity, equity and inclusion means that as an agency, and as individuals, we are committed to ensuring that all employees enjoy a respectful, safe, and supportive working environment.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination based on sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, age, honorably discharged veteran or military status, sexual orientation including gender expression or identity, 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. You are welcome to include your name and gender pronouns in your application, to ensure we address you appropriately throughout the application process.

For questions about this recruitment, or to request reasonable accommodation in the application process, please email or call (360) 664.1720. For TTY service, please call the at 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384.

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 (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 (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 , 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, are entitled to three (3) 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

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 12-31-2022

01

Which of the following best describes your highest level of education?
  • Associate's Degree
  • Bachelor's Degree
  • Master's Degree or higher
  • I do not have a degree


02

Please list your degree(s) and major(s) of study.

03

Which of the following best describes your professional experience?
  • I have at least 1 year of experience analyzing and/or interpreting financial documents, or laws and regulations for license qualification issuance, or interviewing and /or research/review duties involving public contact.
  • I have at least 2 years of experience analyzing and/or interpreting financial documents, or laws and regulations for license qualification issuance, or interviewing and /or research/review duties involving public contact.
  • I have at least 3 years of experience analyzing and/or interpreting financial documents, or laws and regulations for license qualification issuance, or interviewing and /or research/review duties involving public contact.
  • I have at least 4 years of experience analyzing and/or interpreting financial documents, or laws and regulations for license qualification issuance, or interviewing and /or research/review duties involving public contact.
  • I have at least 1 year lead or supervisory experience within a regulatory environment.
  • I have at least 2 years lead or supervisory experience within a regulatory environment.
  • I have at least 3 years lead or supervisory experience within a regulatory environment.
  • None of the above statements apply.


04

In support of the question above, describe your experience as it relates to this position. Be specific as to name(s), date(s) of employment, titles/roles, and specific duties performed. If you do not have this experience, please indicate N/A. "See Resume" will be considered an incomplete answer.

05

Will you now or in the future require sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g. H-1B visa status or F1 OPT etc.)? WSLCB is not an E-Verify agency.
  • Yes
  • No


06

Are you a current WLSCB employee?
  • Yes
  • No


07

How did you learn about this job posting?
  • Careers.wa.gov
  • WSLCB website
  • WorkSource
  • indeed
  • Monster.com
  • Handshake
  • GovernmentJobs.com
  • LinkedIn
  • Referred by a WSLCB employee
  • Veterans related job board
  • Family Member or friend.


08

If you selected "Referred by a WSLCB employee", please list the name of the employee. If this does not apply, type N/A.

Required Question