Chief Data Officer

Salary: $163,500.00 - $173,472.00 Annually
Location : Thurston County - Tumwater, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number: 2026-05074
Department: Dept. of Corrections
Division: BEST - Research & Data Analytics
Opening Date: 06/29/2026
Closing Date: 7/12/2026 11:59 PM Pacific


Description
Chief Data Officer

Full Time | Permanent

Location: Headquarters | Tumwater, WA

Salary Range: $163,500 - $173,472 Annually
The Washington State Department of Corrections (DOC) is committed to improving public safety by positively changing lives. We are seeking a visionary and strategic leader to serve as the Chief Data Officer , who will be responsible for advancing the department's enterprise data strategy and ensuring that research, analytics, and evaluation efforts drive meaningful outcomes for the individuals and communities we serve.
In this role, you will provide executive leadership for the department's data management, research, program evaluation, and analytics functions. You will oversee the development and execution of complex, scientifically rigorous research and analytical initiatives that inform programmatic, operational, and budgetary decisions across the agency. By establishing sound data governance practices and aligning analytical resources with agency priorities, you will help ensure that decisions are evidence-based and focused on improving outcomes for incarcerated individuals and those under community supervision.
Serving as the department's Chief Data Officer, you will act as the principal strategist and subject matter expert on the management and utilization of DOC's data assets. This position requires exceptional leadership, communication, and partnership skills to successfully guide enterprise data initiatives, develop innovative analytical approaches, and translate complex information into actionable insights for executive leaders and stakeholders. You will lead all phases of research and evaluation activities, including methodology development, data architecture and requirements, analysis, reporting, and the communication of findings to diverse audiences.
As a trusted advisor and representative of the agency, you will engage with the Office of the Governor, the Office of Financial Management, the Legislature, agency and community partners, and other external stakeholders on matters related to data strategy, research, and performance improvement. Through the responsible stewardship of public resources and a commitment to evidence-based decision making, you will help shape policies and practices that enhance public safety and advance DOC's mission.
Reporting directly to the Assistant Secretary of Business, Enterprise, and Strategic Transformation (BEST), this position serves as a member of both the Program Leadership Team and the Extended Leadership Team, providing executive-level leadership and contributing to the department's strategic direction and long-term success.
A completed application packet will include:

• A cover letter regarding your interest in this position with our agency
• A detailed resume
• Three professional references

Duties
We are looking for teammates who share our vision of public service and are committed to an equitable and inclusive culture that fosters and inspires excellence, while promoting innovation, engagement, and safety, leading to better outcomes for our incarcerated population, our agency, and our community.

As a Chief Data Officer , some of your duties will include:

• Working with executive leadership to establish the vision for managing data as a business asset - to maximize the return on data assets
• Establishing the strategic direction for building the department's data management program and optimizing how the business uses data
• Defining and oversight of how the department prioritizes, maintains, and applies data and information to support the strategic plan and business processes
• Determining the department's data governance strategy, including overseeing data policies, data consistency, procedures, standards, and roles
• Developing processes for how the agency prioritizes, maintains, and presents data and information to measure performance
• Identifying new kinds, types and sources of data to enable business innovation throughout the organization
• Collaborating with the Chief Information Officer to understand the information technology infrastructure and the investments needed to address business needs, how IT and RDA can partner to solve business problems, and to align strategies for achieving long-term goals
• Collaborating with the Chief Information Security Officer to create policies and controls for the appropriate protection of information assets
• Ensuring the department is adhering to external regulations on data utilization, reporting, and distribution
• Allocating resources to work that align with DOC's strategic plan, assist with decision making, and result in improved outcomes
• Defining scope, goals, and objectives for complex research studies, with prioritization to internally conduct research and evaluation studies with substantial impact to DOC
• Ensuring all research and evaluation projects (internal and external, large and small-scale) are approved by the Washington State Institutional Review Board (WSIRB)
• Ensuring all projects involving research and/or data sharing involve a legal contract to protect DOC interests
• Ensures RDA produces valid, rigorous, professionally-sound, policy-relevant, information in simple, digestible formats
• Managing projects to ensure timely, on-budget completion of quality products that directly inform decisions
• Evaluating and recommending research and grants partnerships based on alignment with DOC priorities, the strength, rigor, and policy/practice impact of the proposal, expertise of the applicant, and available resources
• Providing technical advice and consultation to members of the PLT, ELT, and other key stakeholders requiring correctional data to inform decisions
• Providing consultation and senior-level analytical support to DOC's implementation of Results Washington and Results DOC with valid, consistent, and timely data

Qualifications
What we need (required qualifications):

• A Ph.D. in Social, Criminal Justice, or Behavioral Sciences, or a related field from an accredited college or university whose accreditation is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)

AND

• Two (2) years of experience conducting policy- relevant data analysis in a public sector setting

OR

• A Master's degree in Social, Criminal Justice or Behavioral Sciences, or a related field from an accredited college or university whose accreditation is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)

AND

• Four (4) years of experience conducting policy-relevant data analyses in a public sector setting.

OR

• A High School Diploma or GED

AND

• Ten (10) years of experience conducting policy - relevant data analysis in a public sector setting.

In addition to the above education/experience the below knowledge, skills and/or abilities are required:

• Two (2) years of experience supervising a research/analytics team
• Advanced experience in SAS, SPSS, or other advanced statistical analysis software
• Advanced training in multi-variate statistical methods and quantitative and qualitative research methodologies
• Ability to define goals, analyze information, formulate logical and objective conclusions, recognize alternatives, and make recommendations to provide reliable professionally-sound, scientifically valid advice and consultation to senior level leadership to help guide program, policy, and budget decisions
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication, and public speaking skills. Ability to present complex ideas and information to a variety of internal and external audiences - both in written and presentation format - using plain talk principles
• Ability to supervise, coach, and mentor staff members
• Fosters an environment of supported learning
• Ability to plan, lead, organize, and control the work performed by RDA
• Assuring appropriate and optimum use of RDA's resources and enhance the effectiveness of staff through professional development opportunities
• Ability to work directly and collaboratively with the Department Secretary, Deputy Secretary, Assistant Secretaries, and other senior executives, external stakeholders, and internal staff at all levels across the Department on research, program evaluation, data analysis, and data management activities
• Demonstrated critical and applied quantitative and qualitative analytical skills
• Able to break down, sort, and synthesize information, identify key messages and central themes, form accurate conclusions about the meaning of the information, display through clear charts and graphics, and develop appropriate action steps and recommendations

What will make your application stand out (preferred qualifications):

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in social, Criminal Justice or Behavioral Science or related field recognized by the Dept. of Education and Council of Higher Education (CHEA)
• Strong organizational and project management skills
• Ability to create systemic and long-term efficiencies through the application of LEAN principles

Supplemental Information
Vision: Working together for safer communities.

Mission: Improving public safety by positively changing lives.

Our Commitment: To operate a safe and humane corrections system and partner with others to transform lives for a better Washington.

Our Core Values :

• Cultivate an environment of integrity and trust: Corrections values partnership and trust. We foster openness and support courageous conversations. We are committed to doing what we say we are going to do by being accountable and taking personal ownership in our actions.
• Respectful and inclusive interactions: Corrections appreciates and values individuals by promoting an inclusive and diverse environment, which encourages safety. We respect, value, and listen to the thoughts, feelings, and perspectives of our stakeholders and consider the impact on those we serve as well as each other.
• People's safety: Corrections believes in creating an environment that values physical, mental, and emotional security and well-being. We honor those who advance safety for all.
• Positivity in words and actions: At Corrections, we assume positive intentions and believe there is a shared desire for the best outcome. We consistently demonstrate positive behavior and always put forth our best effort.
• Supporting people's success: Corrections is committed to our community - understanding individuals, instilling hope, embracing change, and providing opportunities.

DOC is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, honorably discharged veteran, veteran status, genetic information, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability or the use of a trained guide dog or service animal by a person with a disability.
IMPORTANT NOTES:

• DOC complies with the employment eligibility verification requirements for the federal employment eligibility verification form I-9. The selected candidate must be able to provide proof of identity and eligibility to work in the United States consistent with the requirements of that form.
• DOC does not use E-Verify; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM-Optional Practice Training (OPT). For information, please visit
• This recruitment may be utilized to fill more than one position.
• Please include a minimum of three (3) professional references with your application. A professional reference is defined as an individual who has been paid to supervise your work and can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job competencies. If you do not have any or sufficient professional references, please include non-related professionals, such as educators or other professional associates.
  **Please note: Phone number AND email address are required for all professional references.
• A background check including criminal record history will be conducted prior to a new hire. 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.
• Employees may work directly with or near incarcerated individuals in a potentially hazardous setting. Please consider this when deciding whether to apply.
• We are committed to maintaining a drug and alcohol-free work environment, and our employees are expected to comply with all state and federal laws. A pre-employment drug test may be administered as part of the selection process, and applicants who test positive for any controlled substances, will be disqualified from consideration.
• Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) is an aerosol pepper spray made available as a means of self-defense and/or de-escalation. Applicants with sensitivities or allergies are encouraged to ask about the level of exposure they could expect in this position.
• Animal care projects are a common component of most Washington State prisons, including dog and cat programs. Applicants with animal sensitivities or allergies are encouraged to ask about the level of exposure they could expect in this position.
• Tuberculosis (TB) is a priority health issue for DOC employees. The successful candidate may be required to provide valid proof of a baseline TB skin test within 60 days from the date of hire. When positive tests result, further information, testing and treatment will also be required. Employment is not contingent upon test results.
• Foreign equivalent degrees awarded outside the United States must have a credential evaluation report attached to your application. You may request the required evaluation/documentation from and Until this documentation is provided, you will not be selected to move forward in the hiring process.

Telework Details

This position may be allocated for telework. If authorized for the role, work may be performed from your home or another offsite location within the state of Washington using a reliable internet or cellular hotspot service at that time. Employees are expected to perform assigned duties in a safe manner, to take proper care all state-issued equipment, and maintain confidentiality of all information in possession while working offsite. Employees will be required to commute to a Department of Corrections facility or field office as business requires, to potentially include components of the onboarding process. Some offices will have a "drop in" area available, however, a dedicated workspace within a DOC facility will not be provided.
What We Offer:

As an employee of the Department of Corrections, your work-life integration is a priority. Washington State employees are offered one of the most inclusive and competitive benefits packages in the nation. Besides comprehensive family insurance for medical, dental, and vision, these perks also may include:

• Remote/telework/flexible schedules (depending on position)
• Up to 25 paid vacation days a year
• 8 hours of paid sick leave per month
• 12 paid holidays a year
• Generous retirement plan
• Flex Spending Accounts
• Dependent Care Assistance
• Deferred Compensation and so much more!

PERS: 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 ' web site.
For questions about this recruitment, or to request reasonable accommodation in the application process, please email View email address on click.appcast.io or call us at View phone number on click.appcast.io. For TTY service, please call the Washington Relay Service at 7-1-1 or View phone number on click.appcast.io.
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


Are you a current DOC employee?

• Yes
• No

02


Please indicate your highest level of education:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Associates degree
• Bachelors degree in Social, Criminal Justice or Behavioral Sciences, or a related field from an accredited college or university whose accreditation is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)
• A Master's degree in Social, Criminal Justice or Behavioral Sciences, or a related field from an accredited college or university whose accreditation is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)
• A Ph.D. in Social, Criminal Justice, or Behavioral Sciences, or a related field from an accredited college or university whose accreditation is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)

03


If you have a degree obtained outside of the United States, have you included a foreign credential evaluation report with your application? (You may request the required evaluation/documentation from and

• Yes
• No
• NA

04


How many years of experience conducting policy - relevant data analysis in a public sector setting do you have?

• I have one year or less of this experience
• I have two to three years of this experience
• I have four to five years of this experience
• I have six to seven years of this experience
• I have eight to nine years of this experience
• I have ten or more years of this experience

05


If you indicated having experience conducting policy - relevant data analysis in a public sector setting, please describe this experience in detail to include dates and places of employment. If you do not have this experience, please put NA. See resume will be considered an incomplete answer.
06


How many years of experience supervising a research/analytics team do you have?

• I do not have this experience
• I have one year of this experience
• I have two or more years of this experience

07


If you indicated having experience supervising a research/analytics team please describe this experience in detail to include dates and places of employment. If you do not have this experience, please put NA. See resume will be considered an incomplete answer.
08


Please select all knowledge skills and/or abilities in which you possess:

• Advanced experience in SAS, SPSS, or other advanced statistical analysis software
• Advanced training in multi-variate statistical methods and quantitative and qualitative research methodologies
• Strong organizational and project management skills
• Ability to create systemic and long-term efficiencies through the application of LEAN principles
• I do not have any of the above knowledge, skills and/or abilities

09


How did you hear about this opportunity?

• Careers.wa.gov; jobs.doc.wa.gov; or governmentjobs.com
• Indeed
• DOC social media (Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter)
• Job/career fair
• Job boards (Monster. ZipRecruiter, GlassDoor, CareerBuilder)
• WorkSource
• Veteran outreach
• Referral from current DOC employee
• Other

10


If hired for this position, do you currently possess required documents to allow you to legally work within the United States? (The below link lists acceptable documents:

• Yes
• No

11


If hired for this position, will you require employer sponsorship, either now or in the future?

• Yes
• No

Required Question