Contracts, Grants, Loans, and General Accounting Manager (WMS Band 1)

Salary : $81,738.00 - $104,442.00 Annually
Location : Thurston County - Lacey, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 2026-FS2686-04352
Department: Dept. of Ecology
Division: Financial Services
Opening Date: 05/27/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Salary Information: The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step


Description

Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen
The Department of Ecology is hiring a Contracts, Grants, Loans, and General Accounting Manager (WMS Band 1)within Financial Services.
Location:

• Headquarters Office in Lacey, WA.
• Upon hire, you must live within a commutable distance from the duty station.

Schedule:

• This position is eligible for telework and flexible schedule options.
• A minimum of one day per week is required in the office.
• Schedules are dependent upon position needs and are subject to change.

Application Timeline:

• Apply by June 9, 2026.
• Applications submitted after the date above may be reviewed only if additional qualified applicants are needed.

Duties
In this role, you will provide senior-level financial analysis, consulting, policy and procedure development, and agency-wide communication and implementation strategies on financial/budget issues having agency-wide impact to ensure financial integrity, stability, and accountability for the agency. You will analyze new or updated statewide financial systems and policies administered by the Office of Financial Management, the Office of the State Treasurer, Federal Agencies, and others to determine the impact to Ecology, and provide implementation recommendations. You will also analyze agency business and financial practices that impact the financial infrastructure of Ecology, make recommendations for improvements, and implement final recommendations. All of which assists Ecology in providing its customers, both internal and external, with the highest level of integrity and confidence in the agency's financial practices and information.

What you will do:

• Responsible for the financial administration of Ecology grant, contract, and loan agreements that protect, preserve, and enhance Washington's environment, and promote the wise management of our air, land, and water for the benefit of current and future generations.
• Exercise authority to guide and influence the agency in the compliance and financial monitoring of federal grants, and ensure that grant regulations, rules, and policies are followed.
• Provide expert-level advice, consultation, and technical support to all agency programs, ensuring compliance with both state and federal requirements for agency contract, grant, and loan agreements.
• In collaboration with agency budget staff, is responsible for developing the agency chart of accounts to ensure the integrity and transmission of agency financial data are complete and accurate for state and federal compliance and reporting.
• Supervise and direct a well-trained, professional team in providing the best accounting resources for the agency.

Qualifications
For detailed information on how we calculate experience and responses to other frequently asked questions, please visit our


Required Qualifications:

Eight (8) years of experience and/or education as described below:

Experience : Accounting, auditing, budgeting, including three (3) years of supervising or leading teams.

Experience must include demonstrated competence in the following skill sets:

• Advanced Knowledge of State Accounting - Ability to understand and effectively use state accounting systems, laws, policies, and procedures to ensure all financial activities are accurate, compliant, and aligned with state and federal requirements.
• Communication and Collaboration - Ability to explain financial information clearly and work effectively with all levels of management and staff to support understanding, informed decision-making, and coordinated action.
• Budget System Knowledge - Ability to understand state budget systems and work collaboratively with budget managers and staff to ensure financial information is accurate, consistent, and aligned with budget decisions.
• Process Improvement - Ability to analyze existing processes, identify gaps or inefficiencies, and design improved approaches to increase the accuracy, consistency, and effectiveness of financial operations.
• Workload and Time Management - Ability to plan, prioritize, and organize work to meet deadlines and manage multiple responsibilities effectively.
• Confidentiality - Ability to use sound judgment and maintain confidentiality to support trusted and reliable fiscal operations.
• Leadership - Ability to guide, support, and develop staff to build a high performing unit that meets agency financial and compliance obligations.

Education: involving a major study in a financial related field, certification as a Public Accountant, Internal Auditor, Certified Governmental Financial Manager, or Management Accountant, Any degree which includes 18 quarter or 12 semester hours in accounting, auditing, or budgeting.

Examples of how to qualify:

• 8 years of experience.
• 7 years of experience AND 30-59 semester or 45-89 quarter college credits.
• 6 years of experience AND 60-89 semester or 90-134 quarter college credits (Associate's degree).
• 5 years of experience AND 90-119 semester or 135-179 quarter college credits.
• 4 years of experience AND a Bachelor's degree.
• 2 years of experience AND a Master's degree.
• 1 years of experience AND a Ph.D.

Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment:

Employee must read, sign, and abide by the Financial Services/Fiscal Office Agreement on Confidential Information (Part A), Internal Control Responsibility (Part B), Safeguarding and Preventing Misuse of Ecology's Data (Part C).
Desired Qualifications:

• Change Management - Demonstrated ability to guide staff through process changes and system transitions to improve unit performance and maintain operational stability.
• Advanced Data Analysis - Demonstrated ability to use analytical techniques and data visualization tools to identify trends, improve reporting accuracy, and support decision-making.
• Continuous Improvement Mindset - Demonstrated ability to evaluate existing processes to identify opportunities for streamlining, automation, and elimination of redundant steps.

If you are excited about this role and meet the required qualifications, we encourage you to apply. Desired qualifications reflect additional knowledge, skills, or experience that are nice to have but not required. Studies have shown that some applicants, especially women and people of color, are less likely to apply unless they meet every listed qualification. At the Department of Ecology, we are dedicated to building a diverse and authentic workplace centered in belonging, and we welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and unique perspectives.
Supplemental Information
Ecology does not use the E-Verify system; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit .

Application Process

Ecology seeks diverse applicants: We view diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect through a broad lens including race, ethnicity, class, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, immigration status, military background, language, education, life experience, physical disability, neurodiversity, and intersectional identities. Qualified job seekers from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
How to Apply

Click "Apply" at the top of this page. Complete the entire application, including full work history and responses to all supplemental questions, and attach:

• Cover letter, describing your interest in and qualifications for this position
• Resume

Because we base our selection on the information you provide, it is in your best interest to complete the application thoroughly. A resume will not substitute for the "work experience" section of the application or vice versa. Applications with blank fields or supplemental question responses with comments such as "see resume" may be considered incomplete.

For detailed application information, please visit our
Application Attestation: By submitting an application, you are affirming that the information contained in your application and on all attachments is complete and truthful. The state may verify this information, and any false or misleading answers may result in rejection of your application or dismissal if employed.
Need an Accommodation?

If you need reasonable accommodation during the application and/or screening process, including this job announcement in an alternate format:

• Please contact us at View phone number on click.appcast.io or
• If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 711 or View phone number on click.appcast.io.

Questions?

• For specific questions about the position location options, schedule, or duties, please contact Beth Swanson at
• If you need assistance applying for this job, are inquiring about the status of your application, would like to request the full position description, or have any other questions, please contact the Recruitment Team at View email address on click.appcast.io

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Respect (DEIR) are core values central to Ecology's work. We strive to be a workplace where we are esteemed for sharing our authentic identities, while advancing our individual professional goals and collaborating to protect, preserve, and enhance the environment for current and future generations.
We believe that DEIRis both a goal and an action. We are on a journey, honoring our shared humanity and taking steps to demonstrate our commitment to a vision where each of us is heard, seen, and valued.
Ecology employees may be eligible for the following: Medical/Dental/Vision for employee & dependent(s), Public Employees Retirement System (PERS), , Public Service Loan Forgiveness, Tuition Waiver, Long Term Disability & Life Insurance, Deferred Compensation Programs, Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP), Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA), Employee Assistance Program, Commute Trip Reduction Incentives, Combined Fund Drive, SmartHealth * Click here for more information
To learn more about Ecology, please visit our website, explore , check out our Strategic Plan, and connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, or our blog.
Equal Opportunity Employer:The Washington State Department of Ecology is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, veterans, military spouses or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply.

Note: This recruitment may be used to fill other positions of the same job classification across the agency.
#LI-Hybrid
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 hear about this job?

• Community Based Organization
• Community / Technical College
• Ecology Employee
• Ecology Recruiter
• Ecology Jobs Page
• Facebook
• Job Board
• Job Fair
• LinkedIn
• Newspaper
• Other State Agency
• Other Website
• Professional Association
• Twitter
• University Job Board
• WorkSource
• Other

02


If you selected Community Based Organization, Community / Technical College, Job Board, Job Fair, LinkedIn Group, Newspaper, Other State Agency, Other Website, Professional Association, University Job Board, WorkSource, or Other, please share which one.
03


Have you ever worked for the Department of Ecology in any capacity including: Permanent, Non-permanent, Project, Intern, or Volunteer?

• Yes
• No

04


How many years of experience do you have in accounting, auditing or budgeting?Please include any experience gained through employment, internships, and/or volunteer positions. Note that experience gained from academic coursework, class projects, or other degree requirements is assessed in later questions.

• One year
• Two years
• Three years
• Four years
• Five years
• Six years
• Seven years
• Eight years
• None of the above

05


Please provide additional details to support your response above. The following information is needed: position title(s), specific duties, and periods of employment. Make sure your response specifically addresses the qualification above. An incomplete answer, including "please see resume" may remove you from further consideration.
06


What is your level of education involving a major study in a financial related field, certification as a Public Accountant, Internal Auditor, Certified Governmental Financial Manager, or Management Accountant, or any degree which includes 18 quarter or 12 semester hours in accounting, auditing, or budgeting?

• 30-59 semester or 45-89 quarter college credits
• 60-89 semester or 90-134 quarter college credits (AA degree)
• 90-119 semester or 135-179 quarter college credits
• Bachelor's degree
• Master's degree
• Ph.D.
• None of the above

07


If you have college credits or a degree, please list your major(s) or field(s) of study and any degree(s) earned. If you don't have this education, put N/A.
08


Do you have at least three (3) years of supervising or leading teams?

• No
• Yes

09


The State of Washington and the Department of Ecology, play a vital role in fostering a Diverse, Equitable, Inclusive, and Respectful (DEIR) workplace and contributing to equitable outcomes for the communities we serve. We view DEIR through a broad lens including: race, ethnicity, class, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, immigration status, military background, language, education, life experience, physical disability, neurodiversity, and intersectional identities. We believe it is everyone's job to contribute to a DEIR workplace. Please tell us, what does it mean for you to have a commitment to DEIR in the workplace? What steps or actions have you taken to demonstrate your commitment previously?
10


I understand that Ecology does not use the E-Verify system and is unable to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT).

• Yes
• No

11


How would you rate your ability to understand and effectively use state accounting systems, laws, policies, and procedures to ensure financial activities are accurate, compliant, and aligned with state and federal requirements?

• None - No exposure to state accounting systems, policies, or procedures.
• Foundational - Basic awareness of state accounting concepts; limited exposure to systems or policies.
• Intermediate - Able to perform routine accounting tasks with some guidance; developing familiarity with state laws, procedures, and systems.
• Independently applies state accounting laws, policies, and systems to ensure accurate and compliant financial work.
• Expert - Recognized as a subject matter authority who advises others, interprets complex requirements, and provides direction on state accounting practices.

12


How would you rate your ability to explain financial information clearly and work effectively with management and staff to support understanding, decision-making, and coordinated action?

• None - No experience communicating financial information or collaborating with others.
• Foundational - Basic awareness of communication methods; limited experience explaining financial concepts or working with teams.
• Intermediate - Communicates financial information with some guidance; collaborates effectively in routine situations.
• Advanced - Clearly explains financial information independently and collaborates effectively across teams and levels.
• Expert - Serves as a communication and collaboration leader who mentors others, facilitates complex discussions, and influences decision-making.

13


How would you rate your understanding of state budget systems and your ability to work with budget staff to ensure financial information is accurate, consistent, and aligned with budget decisions?

• None - No exposure to budget systems or related processes.
• Foundational - Basic awareness of budget systems; limited exposure or training.
• Intermediate - Performs budget-related tasks with some guidance; developing practical experience with budget systems.
• Advanced - Independently uses budget systems to ensure financial accuracy and alignment with budget decisions.
• Expert - Recognized authority on budget systems who trains or guides others and supports complex budget decision processes.

14


How would you rate your ability to analyze financial processes, identify inefficiencies, and design improved approaches?

• None - No experience analyzing or improving processes.
• Foundational - Basic awareness of process improvement concepts; limited exposure to analysis methods.
• Intermediate - Able to identify issues and suggest improvements with guidance; developing practical experience.
• Advanced - Independently analyzes processes, identifies gaps, and implements effective improvements.
• Expert - Leads major process improvement initiatives and mentors others in methodologies and best practices.

15


How would you rate your ability to plan, prioritize, and organize work to meet deadlines and manage multiple responsibilities?

• None - No experience managing workload or deadlines.
• Foundational - Basic awareness of time-management techniques; limited application.
• Intermediate - Manages workload with some guidance; meets most deadlines with developing consistency.
• Advanced - Independently manages multiple priorities effectively and consistently meets deadlines.
• Expert - Serves as a role model for workload management, helping others improve planning and prioritization.

16


How would you rate your ability to use sound judgment and maintain confidentiality in handling financial or sensitive information?

• None - No exposure to confidential information or related expectations.
• Foundational - Basic awareness of confidentiality requirements; limited practical experience.
• Intermediate - Handles confidential information appropriately with some guidance.
• Advanced - Independently maintains confidentiality and consistently applies good judgment in sensitive situations.
• Expert - Trusted authority who advises others on confidentiality practices and sets expectations for secure handling of information.

17


How would you rate your ability to guide, support, and develop staff to build a high-performing unit that meets agency financial and compliance obligations?

• None - No experience leading or supporting staff.
• Foundational - Basic awareness of leadership concepts; limited exposure to team guidance or development.
• Intermediate - Provides direction or support with some guidance; developing leadership experience.
• Advanced - Independently leads staff, supports development, and ensures high-quality financial and compliance work.
• Expert - Recognized leadership authority who mentors others, sets direction, and builds strong, high-performing teams.

Required Question