IT Applications Developer - Senior/Specialist

IT Applications Developer

• Senior/Specialist  Salary $97,356.00
• $130,992.00 Annually Location Thurston County
• Tumwater, WA Job Type Full Time
• Permanent Remote Employment Remote Optional Job Number 2026-03020 Department Dept.

of Retirement Systems Division Information Services Opening Date 04/16/2026 Closing Date 4/21/2026 8:00 AM Pacific Description Are you energized by solving complex technical problems and building stable and scalable systems that employers, customers, and agency staff can rely on to support critical processes? Would you thrive in a role where your coding expertise and technical leadership will help shape the tools that support members across Washington State? If you excel at untangling difficult technical challenges, collaborating across teams, and consistently delivering reliable software solutions, then the role of IT Applications Developer

• Senior/Specialist at the Department of Retirement Systems may be the ideal next step for you.

Applications received for this opportunity will be reviewed immediately, so your prompt response is encouraged. The hiring manager reserves the right to make a hiring decision at any time during the recruitment process. Duties We are searching for a skilled IT Applications Developer to serve as a technical lead within the Web Applications Team at the Department of Retirement Systems. As lead developer, you will play a central role in integrating existing systems with DRS's new Neospin platform, part of our mission-critical Pension Modernization Project to replace a decades-old mainframe system. In addition, you will provide ongoing architectural direction and hands-on development for other business-critical systems.

Some of What You'll Do Includes:

Serving as the primary technical lead for the integration of the existing ePortal and Online Account Access systems with Neospin pension administration software, as well as leading technical design, development, and maintenance of other core web applications. Developing solutions using tools such as Visual Studio C#, SQL Server, HTML, JavaScript, jQuery, Bootstrap, Web Services, JSON, and Bizagi BPMS, applying industry best practices throughout. Researching and evaluating emerging technologies and industry trends, translating technical options into business terms to help leaders make informed decisions about the agency's technology direction. Conducting formal code reviews before application changes move to production, mentoring and coaching technical team by providing guidance and technical knowledge, adhering to best practices, and fostering a collaborative and growth-focused environment. Managing the full software development lifecycle, including building and releasing code across development, QA, testing, and production environments, and maintaining Git repositories. Developing and communicating IT standards, governance, and procedures that guide consistent, secure, and resource-conscious use of technology across the agency. Collaborating with network and database administrators, business analysts, and external stakeholders to coordinate system releases and resolve complex technical issues. Maintaining and administering security permissions across systems, including Git and SQL Server access, ensuring access remains appropriate as roles or employment status change.

Schedule and Telework Information:

The incumbent of this position may be eligible to work a flexible, compressed and/or alternate work week schedule. Any schedule of other than 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday, is at the discretion of the team leader and must be approved by the Appointing Authority. Some evening and weekend work may be necessary to perform key processes and/or updates outside of standard business hours. After effectively demonstrating the ability to perform work independently, incumbent may be eligible to telework on a full-time basis, at the discretion of the Appointing Authority and with a telework agreement in place. The ability to work remotely is dependent on the nature of the tasks and projects assigned and the presence of a remote work environment that is safe and has an appropriate level of reliable connectivity. You must live within a reasonable commuting distance (within two (2) hours including commute time) to the DRS building in Tumwater, WA, and must be willing and able to adjust your telework schedule, whenever necessary, to complete work assignments, attend mandatory meetings, trainings, etc., at the DRS facility. Qualifications What we're looking for (required qualifications): Experience for qualifications can be gained through various combinations of professional employment, education, and volunteer/personal experience.

Experience can be concurrent:

Expert-level software engineering experience working with complex systems projects that are strategic in nature. A broad background in technology platforms and computing environments. The above is typically gained from seven (7) years of professional experience. A Bachelor's degree with major emphasis in information technology, computer science, or related field may substitute for two (2) years of experience. In addition, qualified candidates should have the following experience: Proven experience developing and enhancing applications using Visual Studio, .net or similar frameworks, including C#; Proven experience developing web applications using HTML, CSS, JavaScript, ASP.NET using frameworks like

MVC, JSON, API

Web Services, Entity framework, OR similar technologies like Java, Angular, Bootstrap, etc.; Experience testing or overseeing testing of applications; Experience with database development and performing data analysis; and Experience administering Git Repositories or similar source code repository. The above is typically gained from three (3) years of professional experience. AND Excellent written and verbal communication skills including demonstrated ability to clearly explain complex ideas; Excellent critical thinking skills and problem solving skills; Demonstrated ability to create and/or interpret complex business process maps; Excellent leadership, interpersonal and customer service skills Demonstrated proficiency in the use of Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint (version 2016 or newer); and Demonstrated proficiency in the following competency areas: Accountability Understands the link between job responsibilities and organizational goals. Manages their own performance to meet expectations and achieve expected results. Holds self accountable for decisions, actions and behaviors. Adaptability/Flexibility Maintains effectiveness when experiencing major changes in work tasks or the work environment. Adapts easily to changing business needs, adjusting effectively to work within new structures, processes, requirements, or cultures to achieve successful solutions. Demonstrates openness to new and different ways of doing things. Attention to Detail Plans and organizes time and resources efficiently. Follows processes and procedures in the completion of work. Carefully monitors the details and quality of work and double-checks work product to ensure accuracy and consistency. Independence/Self-Management Is a self-starter; demonstrates initiative and motivation in completing their assigned workload. Delivers on commitments made to others. Maintains focus and effectiveness; is a visible role model to others. Problem Solving Analyzes problem to identify the root cause(s). Evaluates possible courses of action, uses reason, logic and creativity to reach conclusions. Develops timely, effective solutions that take into consideration alternatives, risks and consequences in relation to organizational goals, resources and constraints. Results Orientation/Initiative Focuses on results and desired outcomes and how to best achieve them. Identifies what needs to be done and proactively does it before being asked to or required by the situation. Takes on responsibilities and challenges; plans ahead for upcoming problems or opportunities and takes appropriate actions. Learning and Growth

• Demonstrates a growth mindset by actively seeking opportunities to learn, improve, and expand capabilities.

Displays curiosity about new ideas and perspectives and an openness to innovation, change, and feedback. Takes responsibility for personal learning by identifying and communicating needs and challenges, and applying new knowledge to navigate systems, tools, and processes. Reflects on experiences to identify strengths and areas for improvement, using learning to make government programs and processes more efficient and effective in serving the people of Washington. Meeting the Needs of Others

• Demonstrates empathy, flexibility, and responsiveness when interacting with customers, colleagues, and community members.

Understands that others have varied needs and perspectives and adapts communication and actions accordingly. Builds relationships and collaborates to increase access, opportunity, and positive outcomes for all. Balances and considers all parties' needs when developing solutions, ensuring equity, respect, and service excellence in every interaction. The following qualifications are not required but will set you apart: Proficiency and demonstrated experience utilizing JQuery, Bootstrap or other related JavaScript Framework, Web Api's utilizing JSON, and Bizagi BPMS or other BPMS. Demonstrated experience being an effective leader of development teams. Supplemental Information Be sure to read this entire section

• We promise, it'll be helpful!

How to

Apply: