Customer Service Specialist CSS3 – Bilingual (Russian)

Description

Our Mission: Keep Washington Safe and Working!

Our Values: Customer Focus, One L&I, Respect, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Learning and Growth, Reliability.

Note***This position is a full-time position with 5% pay increase for bilingual skills.

The assigned duty station for this position is Everett, Washington.

The expected time spent in-office will be Monday through Friday with one telework day. Based on business needs telework days may change.

Are you passionate about delivering excellent customer service and making a positive impact? Do you thrive in dynamic environments where you can mentor others and solve complex problems? Are you fluent in speaking and writing Russian?

If so, this is your chance to join the Customer Service Program (CSP) and play a key role in keeping Washington’s workforce safe and thriving!

We’re looking for a Customer Service Specialist 3 (CSS3) who’s not just about assisting customers, you’re someone who excels at problem-solving, de-escalating tough situations, and making sure every customer gets the help they need.

Reporting to the Customer Service Specialist 4 (CSS4), this position is a member of the Customer Service Program (CSP) and serves as a bilingual Russian senior Customer Service Specialist (CSS) mentoring and training staff, handling complex cross-agency customer problems that are beyond the scope of the CSS1 and CSS2 classifications.

Under the direction of the CSS4 and Customer Service Manager (CSM), the CSS3 mentors and trains Customer Service Program staff within the region, including all regional offices, to ensure consistency and accuracy among the CSP line staff. In aspects of customer relations and problem resolution, the CSS3 consults with CSP staff on multi-dimensional process/procedure problems and provides ongoing training, coaching, and mentoring. The CSS3 is responsible for accomplishing more complex tasks that are generally out of the scope of a CSS2.

The position supports and contributes to the mission of Labor & Industries by resolving complaints and problems for both English and Russian speaking customers, providing access to agency benefit programs, licensing and regulations for Labor & Industries programs using applicable laws, regulations, and processes. Assists customers in English and Russian with opening of accounts, payment of assessed fees or on accounts, payment agreements, and collection of money.

This position supports and contributes to the economic well-being and safety of Washington’s workers.

All CSS3 positions are required to provide coverage and/or training to other offices within or outside the Region on an as needed basis to meet business and/or customer needs.

Let’s make Washington safer, together. We can’t wait to see how you’ll contribute to our team!

Why You’ll Love This Role:

• Make an Impact: You’ll be solving complex problems and helping our fellow Washingtonians navigate the system with ease. Knowing that your work contributes directly to the safety and well-being of workers is incredibly rewarding.
• Mentorship Opportunities: As a CSS3, you’ll be the go-to expert, mentoring and training other customer service specialists across multiple offices. Share your knowledge, shape future leaders, and foster a supportive environment!
• Dynamic & Fast-Paced: This is no ordinary desk job! You’ll be handling a variety of customer issues, including resolving conflicts, managing tough situations, and providing answers to inquiries about L&I and other government programs.
• Growth & Development: We’re committed to your growth! You’ll have opportunities to enhance your leadership skills, learn new programs, and advance within our agency.

Duties

What you’ll be doing:

Get ready for a role where every day brings new challenges and opportunities to make a real impact! As a team leader, you’ll:

• Lead & Mentor: As a senior member of the team, you’ll be guiding and mentoring Customer Service Specialists 1 and 2. You’ll be providing hands-on training, resolving complex issues, and ensuring smooth communication across all Customer Service Program teams.
• Solve Complex Problems: Whether it’s working with contractors, interpreting policies, or addressing multi-agency concerns, you’ll be the expert in handling tricky situations with ease.
• Train CSS staff: You’ll monitor training needs for all CSP staff and provide additional training as needed. Motivate and encourages CSS staff to meet and exceed performance goals.
• Bilingual: Provide exceptional customer service in both Russian and English at the front counter, on the phone, and online. You’ll be the go-to person for questions about L&I services and other state programs.
• De-escalate & Resolve: Using your excellent communication skills, you’ll manage customer conflicts, offering calm, reasoned solutions to frustrated or upset individuals.
• Guide with Knowledge: Apply your deep understanding of policies, regulations, and procedures to help customers and fellow staff. Your guidance will make all the difference in delivering accurate, timely, and effective service.
• Assist Customers: From registration and payments to complex claims and account issues, you’ll ensure that customers receive the help they need, promptly and professionally.
• Step In When Needed: You’ll act as a backup for the Office Manager in their absence, ensuring operations continue smoothly and that service levels are maintained. Also, you’ll provide support and act as backup to the CSS4.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent and three years of experience providing assistance to clients/customers regarding inquiries, complaints or problems.

OR

One year of experience as a Customer Service Specialist 2.

OR

Equivalent education/experience.

AND

• Bilingual: You must be fluent in both Russian and English (reading, writing, and speaking). We don’t use translation software, so your skills will shine in this role!
• Must possess a valid unrestricted driver license.

In Addition:

• Problem-Solving Skills: You thrive in fast-paced environments, can quickly identify gaps, and find solutions that benefit both the customer and the agency.
• Strong Communication: You’re a master at explaining complex policies and procedures, verbally or in writing, in a way that’s easy to understand, even in the most challenging situations.
• Tech-Savvy: Comfort with various systems and applications is key. You’ll be using digital tools to track, resolve, and manage customer interactions and data.
• The ability to take action to meet the needs of others.
• The ability to take action to learn and grow.

Desired Qualifications

• Cash Handling Experience: If you’ve managed money in a customer service role, we’d love to hear about it.
• Training/Coaching Experience: Experience in mentoring or training staff is a big plus.
• A Passion for Helping Others: If you’re someone who finds joy in making a real difference in people’s lives, this is the job for you!

Supplemental Information

At L&I, your voice matters. In addition, L&I is a diverse state agency dedicated to the safety and health and security of Washington’s 3.3 million workers. Take a look at this brief video and learn more about why L&I is an employer of choice.

The perks of the job:

• Flexible Work: Depending on business needs, you may be eligible for telework or flexible schedule options after your probation period.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Health insurance, paid time off, and a robust retirement plan.
• A Supportive Team: Join a team that’s committed to making a difference. We work together to overcome challenges and celebrate success.
• Professional Growth: Take advantage of ongoing learning opportunities, career development programs, and potential for internal promotions.

To receive more information on opportunities at L&I sign up for GovDelivery and select L&I job alerts.

Application Process:

We will contact the top candidates directly to interview for this position. Because we base the selection on information provided by you, it is in your best interest to identify the knowledge, skills, and abilities that address the mandatory and desirable qualifications described in the announcement.

Please include the following documents with your application:

1. A cover letter Tell us why you’re excited about this role and how you meet the qualifications.
2. A current resume Share your experience and education that make you the perfect fit.
3. A list of at least three professional references with current contact information.

We’ll be reviewing applications soon, so don’t miss your chance to join this incredible team!

Please do not attach or place any medical within the application, resume, or cover letter. If you do, we will have to reject your application to safeguard others from receiving your confidential information. You will have to remove the confidential information before you can apply again.

To learn more about our hiring process timeline at L&I please visit our L&I recruiting page at Hiring Process at L&I. If you would like to read our website in a language other than English, scroll up to the top of the page to select your language of choice from the banner.

Background Check Notice:

Prior to a placement in this position, a background check, including criminal history record will be conducted. Information from your background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining your eligibility to perform the requirements of the position.

Other Information:

• Applicants selected to move forward in the hiring process will be contacted by email to schedule a skills assessment.
• For positions requiring travel, you must have a valid unrestricted driver’s license and have insurance if driving a privately owned vehicle on state business.
• This position is represented by the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE).
• Candidates who are offered a job with L&I must possess work authorization that does not require sponsorship by the employer for a visa now or in the future.
• The Department of Labor & Industries complies with the employment eligibility verification requirements of the federal employment eligibility verification form, I-9. The selected candidate must be able to provide proof of identity and eligibility to work in the United States consistent with the requirements of that form on the first day of employment.
• Please note: L&I may use this announcement to fill multiple permanent and/or non-permanent positions.

Did You Know?

Washington is America’s Top State to live, play, and work, according to U.S. News (2021). Join the L&I team and enjoy all the Evergreen State has to offer.

Applicants wishing to claim Veterans Preference should attach to their application a copy of their DD-214 (Member 4 copy), NGB 22, or signed verification of service letter from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs. Please blackout any personally identifiable data such as Social Security numbers. For further information, contact L&I’s [email protected]

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Employer

L&I employees come from all walks of life. We strive to hire great people from a wide variety of backgrounds. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

We believe in the importance of recognizing the value each of us contribute to the success of the agency mission. Having a diverse workforce is this agency’s greatest resource of strength and knowledge. It is through the combination of talents and abilities that we can pursue finding effective measures to provide the best customer service. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace for everyone and we strongly mean everyone.

The State of Washington is an equal opportunity employer. Persons with a disability who need accommodation in the application process or testing process, or those needing this announcement in an alternative format, may call 360-902-5700. TTY users should first call 711 to access the Washington Relay Service.

You are welcome to include the name and pronoun you would like to be referred to in your materials, and we will honor this as you interact with our award-winning diverse and inclusive organization.

For more information

If you have any questions regarding this job posting, program, or the agency, please contact Elena Emery at [email protected]

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, 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

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