Tax Review Officer; TPS ; Legal

Overview

The Administrative Review and Hearings Division resolves taxpayer disputes of department actions. These actions include revocation or denial of a reseller permit, revocation of a business license, issuance of a tax assessment, denial of a tax refund, and unclaimed property disputes. This position will hold hearings to gather facts, research relevant cases and authority, and issue decisions consistent with Washington State law and department policy.

• No billable hours. Predictable 40‑hour week and paid leave.
• Reasonable caseload. 30‑40 cases, turnaround 3‑12 months.
• Remote work. Hybrid setting; work from home most days.
• Supportive culture. Training, guidance, cross‑training, salary increases, CLE, bar dues.

• Conduct informal administrative reviews of petitions for correction of tax assessments, refund denials, and adverse interpretive rulings.
• Preside over mainstream, executive, and small‑claims hearings and draft determinations.
• Recommend, refer, or negotiate settlement of cases.
• Analyze and provide technical legal and policy recommendations regarding proposed guidance the department considers.
• Represent the department in informal excise tax appeals before the Washington State Board of Tax Appeals.

• Written Communication
  :
  Organize information logically, write clear, concise legal documents reflecting current law, accurate issue statements, findings of fact, apply law to reach correct conclusions.
• Verbal Skills
  :
  Translate complex concepts into lay language, present information clearly and concisely.
• Interpersonal Skills
  :
  Cooperate to share expertise, work collaboratively to achieve goals, facilitate open exchange of ideas.
• Accountability and Caseload Management
• Ethics and Professionalism
• Hearing Skills
• Research Skills
• Negotiation Skills
• Technical Proficiency
• Stress Management and Resilience
• Adaptability and Continuous Learning

• Admission to practice law in Washington or before highest court of a state, DC, or federally recognized tribe.

Preference may be granted to candidates with:

• Graduation from an accredited law school.
• Three years of experience as a hearings examiner, assistant attorney general, or practicing attorney; or
• One year as a Tax Policy Specialist 2 (current or past DOR employees).

Note - An LL.M or master’s degree in taxation or a closely allied field substitutes for one year of experience.

• Complete online application in detail.
• Attach cover letter explaining how you meet the qualifications and why you are interested.
• Attach legal writing sample.

* Incomplete applications or missing materials may lead to disqualification.

Veteran’s preference: attach DD‑214, NGB‑22, or long‑form member
4. Blackout SSN and DOB before attaching.

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

Position is covered by collective bargaining agreement between the Department of Revenue and Washington Public Employees Association (WPEA).

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

The Department of Revenue is 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 Washington Relay Service by dialing 7‑1‑1 or 1‑800‑833‑6388.