[Hiring] Assistant Corrections Ombuds – Vulnerable Population Monitoring @State of Washington

Role Description

The Office of Corrections Ombuds (OCO) is an independent agency within the Governor’s Office that plays a vital role in strengthening transparency, accountability, and the well-being of the incarcerated across Washington State. OCO works directly with incarcerated people and their families, elevates their concerns, and identifies systemwide issues that help inform statewide policy and drive meaningful improvements.

We are looking for a passionate professional who is committed to equity and wants to make an impact. In this role, you will monitor healthcare concerns affecting vulnerable populations in Washington’s prisons, investigate complaints, and identify service gaps. You will provide data-informed insights and recommendations that help improve healthcare delivery and outcomes. Your work will contribute to safer, healthier, and more effective correctional environments and directly support positive change across the state.

What you’ll work on:

• Casework:
  • Responsible for managing a caseload of investigations related to individuals residing in the Department of Corrections (DOC) who are part of a vulnerable population.
  • Manage and prioritize caseload by assessing cases for urgency on a weekly basis.
  • Communicate with incarcerated individuals, family members, and DOC staff to gather information and support the review and resolution of cases.
  • Assist and support other team members (EROs) who may have cases related to vulnerable populations.
• Intake Duties:
  • Respond to calls on the OCO hotline providing technical assistance and complaint intake.
  • Attend scheduled hotline shifts as required to ensure adequate coverage.
  • Provide technical assistance, consultation, and information to hotline callers.
• Systemic Analysis Duties:
  • Assist with identifying trends/systemic issues related to vulnerable populations.
  • Conduct policy, legal, and regulatory research to support investigations and recommendations.
  • Collect, analyze, and synthesize data to support investigative findings and reporting requirements.
• Special Project: Impact Team Coordination:
  • Responsible for the coordination of Impact initiatives being completed by the OCO PEAR Core Team.
  • Serves as the agency Equity Officer and ensures the OCO meets reporting requirements.
  • Coordinates data collection and analysis with other OCO staff for reporting.
• Other Duties:
  • Conduct facility visits as needed to communicate in person with complainants.
  • Assist with OCO Quarterly Public Meetings by collecting data and working on presentations.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated knowledge of correctional systems, investigative processes, or oversight functions.
• Experience performing objective investigations by gathering, analyzing, and evaluating evidence.
• Advanced skill in building collaborative relationships and communicating effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Demonstrated communication skills, including effective dialogue with incarcerated individuals and stakeholders.
• Ability to analyze complex information and exercise sound judgment in sensitive situations.
• Ability to independently manage multiple project assignments and competing priorities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365 and other business technology tools.
• Ability to interact professionally and effectively with individuals experiencing crisis or trauma.
• The ability to learn and grow, taking responsibility for personal strengths and weaknesses.
• The ability to meet the needs of others with flexibility and customer-service focus.

Requirements

• At least 21 years of age.
• Maintain a valid Washington State driver’s license.

Benefits

• A culture that values and strives to advance diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.
• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance.
• 12 paid holidays, 14 paid vacation days (minimum), and 12 days of sick leave per year.
• State retirement programs.