Climate Pollution Reduction Program Budget Manager (WMS Band 2)

Description

Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen

The Department of Ecology is hiring a Program Budget Manager (WMS Band 2) within the Climate Pollution Reduction Program.

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.
• You may telework most of your work time outside of the required in-office day with the exception of occasional in-person meetings and activities.
• Schedules are dependent upon position needs and are subject to change.

Application Timeline: 

• Apply by March 10, 2025.
• This position will remain open until filled. The agency reserves the right to make a hire at any time after application review begins. Applications received after March 10th may not be considered.

Duties

Are you a creative problem-solver who’s strong with numbers and leading a team? We’re looking for someone who can not only build and manage our budget, but also provide mentorship and guidance to a team of five staff as they track and implement our funding decisions — our spending should reflect our program priorities.

The Climate Pollution Reduction Program (CPRP) Budget Manager manages the budget for a team of approximately 80 staff and is the lead contact on all financial matters with Department of Ecology leadership, Budget and Fiscal Office staff, the Office of Financial Management (OFM), legislative staff, and other state and federal agencies. In this role, you’ll be responsible for both the ongoing operational management of CPRP’s budget and ensuring budget planning is integrated with program and agency strategic planning and performance measurement. 

You will manage a highly diverse and talented budget team with wide-ranging responsibilities including budget analysis, grants and contracts management, and tracking of government-wide spending of Climate Commitment Act auction revenues and associated benefits. This team provides the financial foundation for high-impact, high visibility climate pollution reduction programs, such as Cap-and-Invest, the Clean Fuel Standard, Zero Emission Vehicles, and hydrofluorocarbon reduction programs, as well as greenhouse gas emissions tracking and reporting.

You’ll also serve as the fund manager for various CPRP environmental accounts, such as the Clean Fuels Program Account, the Refrigerant Emission Management Account, and the Climate Commitment Act accounts, which involve multiple programs at Ecology and over 37 state agencies, with revenue in the 2023-25 biennium of over $2 billion. Additionally, you’ll oversee the annual Climate Commitment Act Spending Report, which tracks the spending of all revenue generated through the Cap-and-Invest Program. This report requires collecting data from all agencies receiving appropriations of CCA funds, harmonizing reporting requirements with statutory and budgetary requirements, and coordinating with the Office of Financial Management and the Environmental Justice Council.

Some of your duties as Climate Pollution Reduction Program Budget Manager include:

• Manage and monitor budgets for the CPRP’s activities, functions and sections statewide.
• Manage a team of five budget staff, including hiring, training, professional development, performance management. An early responsibility will be to fill a vacant Climate Accounts Budget Manager position.
• Project trends in revenues and expenditures and prepare budget recommendations and funding strategies for executive management.
• Design a long-range strategic budget plan, anticipating financial problems, creating solutions, and making critical, strategic financial decisions; develop financial contingency plans.
• Prepare, coordinate, and provide program budget information, materials, and data. Provide program expenditure information for budget equity reporting obligations under the Healthy Environment for All (HEAL) Act, identifying and advancing additional budget equity compliance opportunities for the program.
• Oversee the Climate Commitment Act (CCA) Funds Report, including the collection of spending data from every agency receiving appropriations of CCA funds and the timely production and review of the annual legislative report. Ensure program coordination between the CPRP Environmental Justice planner, the Ecology Office of Equity and Environmental Justice, Financial Services, and the IT Services Office on CCA reporting protocols.
• Report to Program Manager and CFO on status of program budget and funds managed and on budget issues. Work with Budget and Program Management teams and program staff to keep program budget current, on track, and in line with agency priorities. Identify solutions to program and agency budget issues. 
• Review accuracy and appropriateness of budget-related actions and documents, such as grants, loans, contracts and personnel actions.
• Interpret budget policies and procedures for staff and managers; recommend policy and procedure changes; advise executive management and staff, representatives of other agencies, and various committees regarding implementation of legislation, policy and procedures.
• Serve as fund manager and fiscal note manager for the program. 
• Oversee revenue for multiple environmental accounts involving Ecology programs as well as other State agencies.

Qualifications

For detailed information on how we calculate experience, please visit our Recruitment website.

Required Qualifications:

Seven years of experience and/or education as described below:

• Experience in public sector budget management, fiscal management, accounting or related work, which includes knowledge and proficiency with computers including spreadsheets, database, word processing and PowerPoint programs.
• Education involving a major study in accounting, finance, business, public administration, economics, statistics or a related field.

Examples of how to qualify:

• 7 years of experience.
• 6 years of experience AND 30-59 semester or 45-89 quarter college credits.
• 5 years of experience AND 60-89 semester or 90-134 quarter college credits (Associate’s degree).
• 4 years of experience AND 90-119 semester or 135-179 quarter college credits.
• 3 years of experience AND a Bachelor’s degree.
• 1 year of experience AND a Master’s degree or above.

Desired Qualifications:

• Five years of experience in Washington State Agency budget management.
• Experience using Washington State budget and accounting systems and tools.
• Strong oral and written communication skills with ability to communicate complex information to diverse audiences including executive management, legislators, staff, and the public.
• Strong people management skills, and the demonstrated ability to build, mentor, and effectively manage a high-performing, independently functioning team.
• Familiarity with environmental justice concepts and practice, and experience analyzing and developing budgets with a focus on equitable outcomes.
• Knowledge of greenhouse gas emissions reduction accounting.

If you are excited about this role but not sure if your experience aligns perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply. Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At the Department of Ecology, we are dedicated to building a diverse and authentic workplace centered in belonging. You may just be the needed candidate for this or other roles.

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 www.uscis.gov.

Our Commitment to DEIR

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.

Diversity: We celebrate and appreciate diversity; our unique perspectives and abilities enrich us all and lead to innovative approaches and solutions.

Equity: We champion equity, recognizing that each of us need different things to thrive.

Inclusion: We intentionally create and hold space so that we all have meaningful opportunities to participate and contribute to Ecology’s work.

Respect: We treat each other with respect and dignity, acknowledging the inherent worth of our diverse perspectives and lived experiences, even in times of uncertainty and disagreement.

We believe that DEIR is 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.

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 Recruitment website.

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 360-407-6186 or [email protected]
• If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 711 or 1-800-833-6384.

Questions?

• For specific questions about the position location options, schedule, or duties, please contact Joel Creswell at [email protected]. 
• 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 [email protected]

Ecology employees may be eligible for the following: Medical/Dental/Vision for employee & dependent(s), Public Employees Retirement System (PERS), Vacation, Sick, and other Leave*, 11 Paid Holidays per year*, 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 (Download PDF reader), Combined Fund Drive, SmartHealth *Click here for more information 

To learn more about Ecology, please visit our website, explore Working at Ecology, 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 WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.

Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.

Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

As provided in WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165. 

Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.

Military Leave

Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.

Bereavement Leave

Most employees whose family member or household member dies, 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

Parental Leave

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

Read Full Description