Investigator 3, Lead

Title: Investigator 3, Lead

Location: Tumwater United States

Job Description:

Salary

$5,928.00 - $7,973.00 Monthly

Location

Thurston County - Tumwater, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

2026-130

Department

Dept. of Revenue

Division

Working Families Tax Credit

Opening Date

07/14/2026

Closing Date

7/26/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Description

Are you interested in helping build something new that will make a lasting difference in lives of thousands? If so, this opportunity may be what you are looking for!

The Washington State Department of Revenue (DOR) is seeking to potentially hire an Investigator 3, Lead for its Working Families Tax Credit (WFTC) Claims Research Team. This position will serve as a lead on the team for the program assisting Washington State's low-to-moderate-income working families and individuals. The mission of the Claims Research Team is to protect the integrity of the Working Families Tax Credit Program by preventing and detecting financial losses due to fraud or malfeasance. The Unit uses crossmatch technology and processes, as well as, skip-tracing, tips and leads from the public, referrals from local, state, and federal agencies, to conduct the most complex and difficult investigations of sensitive and controversial cases. The Unit is also responsible for identifying and researching patterns of practice, ongoing patterns of criminal activity, and vendor fraud.

The hiring manager may start screening applicants as early as July 21, 2026, and make a hiring decision at any time after. It will be to your advantage to submit materials as soon as possible.

It is preferred that this position interacts with claimants, in Spanish, or another language, in writing and over the phone. Your ability to read, write, and speak in a language other than English will earn you an additional 5% assignment pay!

Revenue is a dynamic learning organization where you will experience a remarkable work-life balance, with amazing leadership and talented co-workers ready and focused to achieve the agencys goals. We value diverse perspectives and life experiences. We employ and serve people of all backgrounds, including people of color, immigrants, refugees, LGBTQ+, people with disabilities, and veterans. This unique culture of respect promotes a professional family of cohesive groups, maximizing potential through opportunity. We offer a generous benefits package that includes defined benefit retirement plans; health, dental and vision coverage, deferred compensation plans, and as a public service employee, you may also be eligible for student loan forgiveness.

Visit these links to watch our recruitment video to find out more about our agency and see what our employees say about why Revenue is a great place to work.

We invite you to review the opportunity details below and forward this message to others you feel may be qualified.

Duties

The position will:

• Conduct preliminary assessment of applications, attachments, and fraud indicators.
• Determine requirements needed to authenticate and/or validate applicants.
• Complete requests for applicants to provide additional documentation.
• Make corrections to applications found to contain erroneous information.
• Conduct additional fraud evaluation on applications found to contain erroneous information.
• Investigate complex cases of identity theft, tax credit fraud, dependent fraud, vendor fraud, tips from the public, death records, failure to respond issues, missing employer, and out of country issues.
• Interview applicants, victims, and witnesses regarding identity theft, tax credit fraud, dependent fraud, vendor fraud, tips from the public, death records, failure to respond issues, missing employer, and out of country issues.
• Conduct complex investigations involving more than one claimant, victim, and/or issue including those of possible or probable fraud.
• Verify investigative findings and information using available systems and data sets, including systems and data sets that are Federal Tax Information (FTI).
• Know, apply, and adhere to the IRS safeguarding standards for the use of FTI, including those found in IRS Publication 1075.
• Investigate claimants' reported earnings with employer wage information.
• Adjudicate Working Families Tax Credit eligibility issues in accordance with the Revised Code of Washington, the Washington Administrative Code, and Federal Law.
• Determine if the fraud penalty should apply to invoices.
• Act as a resource for other WFTC staff regarding the validity of documentation provided by applicants such as driver's license, tax returns, etc.
• Answers all questions regarding benefits or available services. Explains available services, eligibility requirements, application procedures, and verification needs.
• Gather and record evidential facts, analyze data, prepare investigative summary reports and letters, and present findings to partner agencies, law enforcement and/or Assistant Attorney Generals for prosecution.
• Testify in administrative hearings. Appear in Superior and District Courts as a witness for the state criminal cases.
• Participate in field evidence collection with partner agencies.
• Approve or deny fraud evaluation cases after conducting a holistic review as per established policies and procedures.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will possess a combination of the following knowledge, skills, abilities, and progressive experience that demonstrates readiness to successfully perform the duties and tasks of this position:

Demonstrated progressive experience independently conducting complex, sensitive, or high risk fraud investigations involving multiple claimants, multiple issues, or cross-agency coordination, obtained through prior investigative or regulatory enforcement roles.

Proven ability to interpret, apply, and explain statutes, regulations, and program rules-including RCW, WAC, and IRS Publication 1075-gained through professional experience in compliance, investigations, auditing, or related fields.

Demonstrated ability to analyze evidence, identify fraud patterns or systemic issues, and prepare clear, comprehensive investigative reports, developed through work requiring advanced analytical and critical thinking skills.

Progressive experience conducting interviews of applicants, victims, and witnesses involving sensitive subjects, using trauma informed and professional interviewing techniques acquired through investigative, legal, or social services settings.

Demonstrated ability to use secure investigative systems, databases, and FTI protected information in compliance with federal security requirements, gained through prior work involving confidential or restricted data sources.

Proven ability to serve as a subject matter resource by providing guidance, training, or technical assistance to peers or junior staff, supported by prior experience in lead work, mentoring, or onboarding responsibilities.

Demonstrated skill in coordinating with internal teams, partner agencies, law enforcement, employers, and community organizations to obtain information, resolve cases, or support program integrity, developed through roles requiring extensive interagency collaboration.

Progressive experience managing a high volume workload in a fast paced office environment, prioritizing cases, and meeting deadlines with minimal supervision, gained through positions requiring independent decision making under general direction.

Proven ability to maintain evidence integrity, produce high quality documentation, and testify credibly in administrative or court proceedings, supported by prior investigative, regulatory, or legal experience.

Demonstrated commitment to equity, inclusion, and customer focused service by effectively assisting diverse applicants and applying an equity lens in investigative decisions, gained through experience working with varied communities in public facing roles.

The ability to take action to learn and grow: Curious about themselves and others, take responsibility for knowing their own strengths and weaknesses, and use their learning to make government programs and processes more efficient and effective to serve all in Washington.

The ability to take action to meet the needs of others: Flexible, adaptable, customer-service focused, and willing and able to empathetically respond to the unique needs of the people they work with and serve.

Uses an equity & inclusive approach: Actively seeks to understand and appreciate the diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences of colleagues, customers, and communities. Encourages an inclusive culture where everyone feels valued and respected. Uses an equity lens that applies an objective perspective to daily work by considering impacts on the people we serve, particularly marginalized groups by actively identifying and removing

Preference may be granted to candidates who possess the following:

• Two years of experience as an Investigator 2 or equivalent classification.
• Bachelor's degree or higher in business/public administration, accounting, finance, political science, or criminal justice.
• Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) or other fraud credential.
• IRS or tax preparation certification.

Required for dual language designation:

Demonstrated ability to read and write fluently in Spanish, or another language, gained through progressive experience, formal education, or practical application in professional, academic, or community settings.

To be considered:

• Complete the online application in detail
• Attach a current resume
• Attach a letter of interest explaining your interest in the position and how you meet the qualifications listed
• Include three or more professional references with current contact information

To take advantage of Veterans preference please attach your DD-214, member 4 long form, or your NGB-22. Please black out your social security number and date of birth prior to attaching.

Questions?

Hello, my name is Lance, and I will be assisting with this announcement. As a 20-year Department of Revenue employee, I understand the importance of finding a rewarding career with a work-life balance. At Revenue, we pride ourselves in connecting talented individuals with opportunity and would like to answer any questions you have.

Please contact any part of the Staffing team at Jobs@dor.wa.gov or give me a call (360) 704-5725.

Supplemental Information

Human Resources may use referrals from this recruitment to help fill future similar vacancies for up to six months.

This position has been designated as a user of Federal Tax Information (FTI) provided by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). In order to use this information you will need to:

A) Pass the required background check which requires:

1) FBI national background check (fingerprinting required)

2) Local law enforcement check (places where you have lived, worked, or attended school for the last 5 years)

3) Verification of your ability to work in this country

B) Be willing to follow the safeguarding requirements of IRS Publication 1075 and Revenue Administrative Policy 6.5.1.

The use of FTI provided by the IRS is tightly controlled and will only be disclosed to employees who have met the requirements above.

Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history may be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicants suitability and competence to perform in the position.

These positions are covered by a collective bargaining agreement between the Department of Revenue and the Washington Public Employees Association (WPEA).

The Department of Revenue is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We embrace diversity and offer a respectful, inclusive culture for people with disabilities, as well as members of all protected groups and statuses. We encourage you to apply.

If you need help during the application process, please call the Human Resources Office at 360-704-5731. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6388.

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. Thats 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, 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

Parental Leave

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 the Department of Revenue as a possible employer?

• Family/Friends
• State Employee
• School Representative/Professor
• Career Counselor
• Job/Career Fair
• Social Media Contact
• Other

02

Please identify any "other" responses to question 1.

03

Although this opportunity may have telework options, you must reside in Washington State. Do you live in or plan to relocate to Washington State?

• Yes
• No

04

Incomplete applications or applications received without these materials may be disqualified. Did you attach the following?

• Cover letter
• Resume

05

Will you now or in the future require the Department of Revenue to commence ("sponsor") an immigration case in order to employ you (for example, H-1B or other employment-based immigration case)? This is sometimes called "sponsorship" for an employment-based visa status.

• Yes
• No

Required Question

Employer State of Washington

Address View Job Posting for Agency Information

View Job Posting for Location, Washington, 98504

Website http://www.careers.wa.gov