Job Details
IT Security - Journey
2026-02-15 State of Washington Spokane,WA
Description:
Tasks include:
Duty: Daily security operations and incident response.
Tasks include:
Duty: Maintain technical and communication skills.
Tasks include:
Duty: Other
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
Desired Qualifications:
PLEASE READ: If you have gotten this far and are thinking you do not qualify, consider again. Studies have shown that members of historically marginalized and underrepresented communities, specifically women and people of color, are less likely to apply to jobs unless they clearly meet every single qualification.
At the Office of the Secretary of State, we are dedicated to building a diverse and authentic work force with a foundation of belonging. If you are excited about this role and have relevant experience and skills, but question whether your experience aligns perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply regardless. You may just be the ideal candidate this office needs.
Supplemental Information
Working Conditions In this position, the incumbent works primarily in an office setting, which will require the ability to sit and/or stand for extended periods of time. The standard work hours are Monday-Friday 8am - 5pm; however, work can be required outside of standard hours to include evenings, weekends, and holidays. May travel interstate to attend meetings and training. The incumbent in this position must be able to represent the Office of the Secretary of State in a competent, confident, and professional manner, including professional dress, and be able to clearly and effectively communicate ideas and information both verbally and in writing, and work successfully with a wide variety of people in a team environment. The incumbent in this position must have the ability to work under pressure, meet deadlines, and coordinate with other operational areas to execute security response.
This position is in a bargaining unit represented by the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) and is subject to the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the State of Washington, The Office of the Secretary of State, and the WFSE.
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.
How to Apply
The Office of the Secretary of State is an equal opportunity employer (EOE). We do not
discriminate on the basis of religion, age, sex, marital status, color, creed, national origin, political affiliation, military status, sexual orientation, or any real or perceived sensory, mental or physical ability. All interested candidates are encouraged to apply. Persons of disability needing assistance in the application process, or those needing the announcement in alternative format, should call (360) ###-####.
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, 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
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 about this job opening?
02
Do you have a family member or relative currently employed at the Office of the Secretary of State? *Relative includes: parent, child, spouse, domestic partner, brother, sister, grandparent, aunt, uncle, cousin, niece, any 'step' relations within the preceding categories, any in-law relations within the preceding categories and any others living in the employee's household*
03
If you answered yes in the previous question, what is the name of your family member/relative?
04
PLEASE READ THE BELOW AND TYPE YOUR INITIALS IN RESPONSE TO ACKNOWLEDGE THAT YOU HAVE READ AND UNDERSTAND THESE STATEMENTS. • The Office of the Secretary of State has a Nepotism Policy that does not allow employment of relatives or family members in the same chain of command. I acknowledge this policy and I do not have familial connections or household members employed at the Office of the Secretary of State. I understand that if I am hired and it is discovered that I have a relative or household member working in the same division, my employment will be terminated immediately.
05
How many years of information technology experience do you have working in the areas of designing, installing, configuring, and maintaining security systems such as network firewalls; advanced intrusion detection and prevention hardware and related software; server hardware; robotic tape backup systems; and network infrastructure equipment?
06
Please describe your experience in reference to question #5 including where and when you gained the experience and the tasks and skills you obtained to gain this experience. If you do not have this experience, please write "N/A" in the box below.
07
Do you have experience with scripting and programming languages such as PowerShell, Python, and JavaScript?
08
Do you hold a CompTIA Secruity+ or equivalent certification?
09
Do you have the ability to read and write English?
10
Do you have the ability to efficiently use a personal computer and applicable software to successfully perform the essential job functions of the position?
11
Did you attach a resume, cover letter AND three professional references to your application?
12
This position has a requirement to be in the office located in Cheney, WA. Are you able to do this?
Required Question
Salary: $7,010.00 - $9,429.00 Monthly
Location : Spokane County - Cheney, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number: 26 ISR ITSJ 0934
Department: Office of the Secretary of State
Opening Date: 02/12/2026
Closing Date: 3/5/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
Salary Information: The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step
Description
The Office of Secretary of State (OSOS) offers some of the most unique and diverse job opportunities in state government. Its critical responsibilities include: ensuring a fair and accurate elections process; connecting Washingtonians through the power of libraries; protecting our important government records; and registering corporations and charities. The Secretary of State also administers vital community programs that inspire giving, document our history, and assist crime survivors in avoiding further abuse. This independent office under the state Constitution operates from facilities in the Olympia area and statewide.
The OSOS is looking for top-performing employees who embody its core values of integrity, service excellence, visionary leadership, collaboration and teamwork. It is committed to both employee growth and work-life balance. The benefits of working in state government also include potential eligibility for the federal program.
The Information Security & Response (ISR) Division protects against cybersecurity threats and provides strategic elections messaging that enhances the security of and improves public confidence in the Office of the Secretary of State. The ISR Division has 17 employees who report to the ISR Director. These employees are based at our Olympia-area Secretary of State facility and at the Digital Archives in Cheney. The information security (IS) section consists of the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), IS Project Manager, VoteWA Development Manager, Risk, Compliance and Quality Control (RCQC) team and the IS Operations (Ops) team. The Ops team is comprised of six members on the east and west side of Washington state. The Ops team supports and manages cybersecurity operations and projects, and reports to the CISO.
IT Security - Journey
Permanent, Full Time
This position provides systems administration and cybersecurity capabilities in support of the agency's security goals and objectives. The primary security objective is to detect, respond to, and mitigate cybersecurity incidents. The incumbent supports this objective by implementing, administering, and maintaining OSOS systems and software used in cybersecurity operations. The ISR System Administrator performs technical work independently and collaboratively as part of a team of cybersecurity and other IT professionals.
Duties
Duty: Complete routine tasks using security appliances and cloud applications.
Tasks include:
- Performs routine systems administration and security tasks across security appliances, cloud platforms, and enterprise systems.
- Configures, supports, and audits user access to security appliances, cloud applications, and system resources.
- Maintains identity proofing and access controls to ensure appropriate authentication, authorization and accounting of system access.
- Implements and follows best practices for secure system and application development, including the use of static and dynamic analysis tools for frameworks, custom code libraries, and security tools.
- Monitors and manages scheduled backup jobs to ensure successful completion, data integrity, and recoverability.
- Collaborates with development teams, IT support, and management to optimize server/network performance, minimize downtime, and strengthen security posture.
- Assesses, plans, tests, and implements configuration changes that impact application functionality and system integrations.
Tasks include:
- Monitors security and systems administration tools for notable alerts and events and escalates issues to the appropriate system administrator or supervisor for further analysis.
- Performs initial triage of security and system events, collecting relevant information to support investigation and troubleshooting activities.
- Conducts incident investigations, reports findings to stakeholders, and recommends corrective actions.
- Proactively identifies and implements data quality assurance procedures to ensure the integrity and reliability of system and security information.
Duty: Daily security operations and incident response.
Tasks include:
- Conducts security audits and risk assessments, applying internal best practices to evaluate system and network security.
- Utilizes foundational knowledge of digital forensics to identify, detect, and remediate misconfigurations.
- Assists in incident response activities, including threat hunting and playbook development, to support incident containment and mitigation.
- Coordinates and schedules necessary maintenance with OSOS service teams or through pre-approved security and systems administration tools.
- Monitors and supports on-premises and cloud-based security applications and platforms to ensure continuous protection and operational state.
- Assesses the effectiveness of system security controls using approved security testing techniques.
- Identifies and recommends updates to security policies, standards, and processes to align with agency requirements and industry best practices.
Duty: Maintain technical and communication skills.
Tasks include:
- Actively seeks out and participates in IT security-related professional conferences and training, including both agency-directed and self-directed professional development.
- Reads and leads discussions on technical publications and periodicals.
- Conducts research and appropriate experimentation.
- Obtains and maintains relevant security certifications.
Duty: Other
- Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
- Four years of information technology experience, which may include designing, installing, configuring, and maintaining security systems such as network firewalls; advanced intrusion detection and prevention hardware and related software; server hardware; robotic tape backup systems; and network infrastructure equipment,
- OR an Associate of Arts (AA) degree and three years of relevant information technology experience,
- OR a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree and two years of relevant information technology experience.
- Ability to efficiently use a personal computer and applicable software to successfully perform the essential job functions of the position.
- Ability to read and write English Language.
Desired Qualifications:
- CompTIA Security+ or equivalent certification.
- Familiarity with scripting and programming languages such as PowerShell, Python and JavaScript.
- Familiarity with querying databases using specific parameters to retrieve desired information.
- Current Washington State driver's license.
PLEASE READ: If you have gotten this far and are thinking you do not qualify, consider again. Studies have shown that members of historically marginalized and underrepresented communities, specifically women and people of color, are less likely to apply to jobs unless they clearly meet every single qualification.
At the Office of the Secretary of State, we are dedicated to building a diverse and authentic work force with a foundation of belonging. If you are excited about this role and have relevant experience and skills, but question whether your experience aligns perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply regardless. You may just be the ideal candidate this office needs.
Supplemental Information
Working Conditions In this position, the incumbent works primarily in an office setting, which will require the ability to sit and/or stand for extended periods of time. The standard work hours are Monday-Friday 8am - 5pm; however, work can be required outside of standard hours to include evenings, weekends, and holidays. May travel interstate to attend meetings and training. The incumbent in this position must be able to represent the Office of the Secretary of State in a competent, confident, and professional manner, including professional dress, and be able to clearly and effectively communicate ideas and information both verbally and in writing, and work successfully with a wide variety of people in a team environment. The incumbent in this position must have the ability to work under pressure, meet deadlines, and coordinate with other operational areas to execute security response.
This position is in a bargaining unit represented by the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) and is subject to the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the State of Washington, The Office of the Secretary of State, and the WFSE.
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.
How to Apply
- To be considered for this position you must attach the following:
- Current Resume
- Letter of Interest
- Three Professional references. Personal references will not be considered.
- You must complete the supplemental questions at the end of this application. Incomplete responses such as "see resume" will not be considered. In addition, if the employer you identify in the additional information section is not included on your resume or work experience profile and/or you do not identify an employer, you will not receive credit.
- All veterans must include a copy of your DD214 to receive preference in the hiring process. You must black out your social security number before attaching it to your application.
The Office of the Secretary of State is an equal opportunity employer (EOE). We do not
discriminate on the basis of religion, age, sex, marital status, color, creed, national origin, political affiliation, military status, sexual orientation, or any real or perceived sensory, mental or physical ability. All interested candidates are encouraged to apply. Persons of disability needing assistance in the application process, or those needing the announcement in alternative format, should call (360) ###-####.
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, 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
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 about this job opening?
02
Do you have a family member or relative currently employed at the Office of the Secretary of State? *Relative includes: parent, child, spouse, domestic partner, brother, sister, grandparent, aunt, uncle, cousin, niece, any 'step' relations within the preceding categories, any in-law relations within the preceding categories and any others living in the employee's household*
- Yes
- No
03
If you answered yes in the previous question, what is the name of your family member/relative?
04
PLEASE READ THE BELOW AND TYPE YOUR INITIALS IN RESPONSE TO ACKNOWLEDGE THAT YOU HAVE READ AND UNDERSTAND THESE STATEMENTS. • The Office of the Secretary of State has a Nepotism Policy that does not allow employment of relatives or family members in the same chain of command. I acknowledge this policy and I do not have familial connections or household members employed at the Office of the Secretary of State. I understand that if I am hired and it is discovered that I have a relative or household member working in the same division, my employment will be terminated immediately.
05
How many years of information technology experience do you have working in the areas of designing, installing, configuring, and maintaining security systems such as network firewalls; advanced intrusion detection and prevention hardware and related software; server hardware; robotic tape backup systems; and network infrastructure equipment?
- I have 4 or more years of experience.
- I have an Associate of Arts degree and 3+ years of experience.
- I have a Bachelor of Science degree and 2+ years of experience.
- None of the above
- I do not have this experience, but I am willing to learn
06
Please describe your experience in reference to question #5 including where and when you gained the experience and the tasks and skills you obtained to gain this experience. If you do not have this experience, please write "N/A" in the box below.
07
Do you have experience with scripting and programming languages such as PowerShell, Python, and JavaScript?
- Yes
- No
08
Do you hold a CompTIA Secruity+ or equivalent certification?
- Yes
- No
09
Do you have the ability to read and write English?
- Yes
- No
10
Do you have the ability to efficiently use a personal computer and applicable software to successfully perform the essential job functions of the position?
- Yes
- No
11
Did you attach a resume, cover letter AND three professional references to your application?
- Yes
- No
12
This position has a requirement to be in the office located in Cheney, WA. Are you able to do this?
- Yes
- No
Required Question