Excise Tax Examiner 3 (in-training options) - Real Estate Excise Tax (REET)
State of Washington, Bay View, MD, United States
Overview
The Department of Revenue's Audit Division is now hiring an Excise Tax Examiner 3 (ETE3) in Tumwater, WA. The successful candidate may be hired as an Excise Tax Examiner 3 (ETE3) (in‑training) or as an Excise Tax Examiner 3 depending on qualifications. If you thrive in a fast‑paced environment, are easily adaptable to fluctuating workloads, and find satisfaction in reaching common objectives, this is the position for you.
The hiring manager may start screening applicants as early as April 7, 2026 and make a hiring decision at any time after. It will be to your advantage to submit materials as soon as possible.
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 agency’s 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.
Duties These senior level positions are responsible for providing all levels of customer service related to the Real Estate Excise Tax while auditing transactions for valid exemptions, selling price, and reporting of tax. You will answer questions from the public, businesses, and county officials on REET related topics. You may also be assigned duties from other section programs. Reporting to the Real Estate Excise Tax Administration Manager, here are some other duties you can expect:
Conduct audits on real property and Controlling Interest transfers.
Issue audit assessments to recover underpaid REET.
Research and apply appropriate rules and laws related to the REET program.
Request additional supporting documentation when required including, but not limited to, divorce decrees, bank statements, real estate appraisals, closing agreements, sales agreements, contracts, operating agreements, documents related to inheritance, and tax returns.
Provide education to individuals and businesses on the REET program via the telephone, email, letters, and the Department’s MyDOR messaging technology.
Update account information as required in computer‑based tax systems including the registration number, the taxable amount, and the tax amount owed.
Participate in supervisor conferences with individuals, taxpayer representatives, preparers, and/or attorneys to resolve complex reporting issues including establishing the fact pattern, what laws apply, and the taxable amount of the transaction.
Draft administrative review summaries for protested assessments and draft ruling requests.
Qualifications Information Technology Proficiency
Spreadsheet skills to use intermediate formulas, filtering and sorting.
Document skills to compose messages using bolding, white space, bullets and other formatting to ensure the message is clear.
Ability to locate files and keep electronic files organized.
Managing and responding to emails in a timely manner.
Research, Analysis and Problem Solving
Ability to understand and solve problems by applying strong analytical skills to include collecting all the relevant information and data needed to reach a conclusion.
Ability to compile data into fundamental issues and manageable components, identifying the logical outcomes from the analyses of the data collected.
Ability to research, interpret and apply state tax laws to determine correct reporting.
Ability to make effective and timely decisions even when data is limited or when decisions produce unpleasant consequences.
Ability to demonstrate attention to detail, when reviewing complicated documents to include: purchase agreements, operating agreements, corporate structures, trust agreements, wills, divorce decrees and federal tax returns.
Planning and Organization
Experience managing multiple assignments or projects simultaneously, ensuring timely completion.
Ability to regularly evaluate progress on assignments and adjust organization, priority, time, method, etc. to meet deadlines.
Communication (written and verbal)
Ability to convey complex information in layman’s terms to generate understanding.
Ability to navigate challenging conversations and deliver unfavorable outcomes about tax implications to individuals, businesses and representatives in a professional manner.
Experience using standardized rules of language regarding spelling, punctuation, grammar, sentence structure and composition.
Experience composing written communication with facts and theory that build upon one another logically to convey information to the intended reader.
Interpersonal Skills
Ability to work well individually and also contribute to group discussions and the encouragement of ideas.
Maintain confidentiality and adhere to high standards of integrity.
Tactfully broach and discuss subjects of a sensitive nature.
Ability to use negotiation and persuasion to de‑escalate situations.
Open to sharing new information, skills and tools.
Decision Making And Applying Independent Judgment
Ability to make independent decisions based on training received.
Research skills and judgement to determine the most accurate action when multiple actions could be taken.
Comfortable in a work environment in which decisions are treated on a case‑by‑case basis.
Ability to recognize when initial information provided requires clarification or additional information.
Adaptability
Possess an openness toward changing ideas, processes, responsibilities and interpretation.
Experience working with a high degree of autonomy and also participating collaboratively as part of a team.
The ability to take action to learn and grow
This equity competency identifies people who are curious about themselves and others, who take responsibility for knowing their own strengths and weaknesses, and who 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
This equity competency identifies people who are 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 inequitable barriers.
Preference may be granted to candidates with any combination of professional experience or education, such as:
One year as an Excise Tax Examiner 2 OR,
Two years Department of Revenue experience at the journey level in auditing, compliance, or tax administration OR,
Four years experience in auditing, tax compliance or tax administration, real estate, appraisal, title and escrow, mortgage lending or related field OR,
Bachelor’s degree involving major study in business or public administration or closely allied field.
Compensation At the ETE 3 level $4,740 to $6,384 per month (Range 53), depending on qualifications.
At the ETE 3 (in‑training) level $4,299 to $5,783 per month (Range 49), depending on qualifications. After successful completion of the in‑training plan you will advance to the Excise Tax Examiner 3 level.
NOTE - For current Department of Revenue employees and union members of the WPEA, current promotion rules will apply if selected.
To be considered
Please complete/update your application as it will be used as your resume.
Please attach a letter of interest, describing your specific qualifications and interest for this position.
* Note - Failure to follow the application instructions or attaching the required documents may result in your disqualification.
Throughout our selection process, we will also be evaluating candidates for knowledge, skills, abilities, behaviors, and capacity for effective leadership that aligns with the culture of DOR.
To take advantage of Veteran’s preference, please attach your DD‑214, member 4 long form, or your NGB‑22. Please blackout your social security number and date of birth before attaching.
Questions Hello, my name is Patrick and I will be assisting with this announcement. As a 20‑year Army veteran, I understand the difficulty finding an enjoyable 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) 704‑5738.
Supplemental Information The Human Resource Division may use referrals from this recruitment to help fill future similar vacancies for up to six months.
This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement between the Department of Revenue and the Washington Public Employees Association (WPEA).
Prior to a new hire, a 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 in the position.
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.
Benefits Overview Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation. 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.
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.
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees’ Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer‑contributed retirement programs. Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). 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. 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.
Leave and Flexible Time Policies Full‑time and part‑time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year. Employees who are members of certain unions may be entitled to additional personal leave days; please refer to position‑specific collective bargaining agreements for more information. Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) provisions, leave sharing, parental leave, military leave (21 days paid per year), bereavement leave (five days paid), vacation, sick leave and other leave options are available as governed by state law and applicable agreements.
Other Details Updated 01‑07‑2026
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
Please elaborate on any “Other” answers from above.
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
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)?
Yes
No
Required Question
#J-18808-Ljbffr
The hiring manager may start screening applicants as early as April 7, 2026 and make a hiring decision at any time after. It will be to your advantage to submit materials as soon as possible.
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 agency’s 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.
Duties These senior level positions are responsible for providing all levels of customer service related to the Real Estate Excise Tax while auditing transactions for valid exemptions, selling price, and reporting of tax. You will answer questions from the public, businesses, and county officials on REET related topics. You may also be assigned duties from other section programs. Reporting to the Real Estate Excise Tax Administration Manager, here are some other duties you can expect:
Conduct audits on real property and Controlling Interest transfers.
Issue audit assessments to recover underpaid REET.
Research and apply appropriate rules and laws related to the REET program.
Request additional supporting documentation when required including, but not limited to, divorce decrees, bank statements, real estate appraisals, closing agreements, sales agreements, contracts, operating agreements, documents related to inheritance, and tax returns.
Provide education to individuals and businesses on the REET program via the telephone, email, letters, and the Department’s MyDOR messaging technology.
Update account information as required in computer‑based tax systems including the registration number, the taxable amount, and the tax amount owed.
Participate in supervisor conferences with individuals, taxpayer representatives, preparers, and/or attorneys to resolve complex reporting issues including establishing the fact pattern, what laws apply, and the taxable amount of the transaction.
Draft administrative review summaries for protested assessments and draft ruling requests.
Qualifications Information Technology Proficiency
Spreadsheet skills to use intermediate formulas, filtering and sorting.
Document skills to compose messages using bolding, white space, bullets and other formatting to ensure the message is clear.
Ability to locate files and keep electronic files organized.
Managing and responding to emails in a timely manner.
Research, Analysis and Problem Solving
Ability to understand and solve problems by applying strong analytical skills to include collecting all the relevant information and data needed to reach a conclusion.
Ability to compile data into fundamental issues and manageable components, identifying the logical outcomes from the analyses of the data collected.
Ability to research, interpret and apply state tax laws to determine correct reporting.
Ability to make effective and timely decisions even when data is limited or when decisions produce unpleasant consequences.
Ability to demonstrate attention to detail, when reviewing complicated documents to include: purchase agreements, operating agreements, corporate structures, trust agreements, wills, divorce decrees and federal tax returns.
Planning and Organization
Experience managing multiple assignments or projects simultaneously, ensuring timely completion.
Ability to regularly evaluate progress on assignments and adjust organization, priority, time, method, etc. to meet deadlines.
Communication (written and verbal)
Ability to convey complex information in layman’s terms to generate understanding.
Ability to navigate challenging conversations and deliver unfavorable outcomes about tax implications to individuals, businesses and representatives in a professional manner.
Experience using standardized rules of language regarding spelling, punctuation, grammar, sentence structure and composition.
Experience composing written communication with facts and theory that build upon one another logically to convey information to the intended reader.
Interpersonal Skills
Ability to work well individually and also contribute to group discussions and the encouragement of ideas.
Maintain confidentiality and adhere to high standards of integrity.
Tactfully broach and discuss subjects of a sensitive nature.
Ability to use negotiation and persuasion to de‑escalate situations.
Open to sharing new information, skills and tools.
Decision Making And Applying Independent Judgment
Ability to make independent decisions based on training received.
Research skills and judgement to determine the most accurate action when multiple actions could be taken.
Comfortable in a work environment in which decisions are treated on a case‑by‑case basis.
Ability to recognize when initial information provided requires clarification or additional information.
Adaptability
Possess an openness toward changing ideas, processes, responsibilities and interpretation.
Experience working with a high degree of autonomy and also participating collaboratively as part of a team.
The ability to take action to learn and grow
This equity competency identifies people who are curious about themselves and others, who take responsibility for knowing their own strengths and weaknesses, and who 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
This equity competency identifies people who are 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 inequitable barriers.
Preference may be granted to candidates with any combination of professional experience or education, such as:
One year as an Excise Tax Examiner 2 OR,
Two years Department of Revenue experience at the journey level in auditing, compliance, or tax administration OR,
Four years experience in auditing, tax compliance or tax administration, real estate, appraisal, title and escrow, mortgage lending or related field OR,
Bachelor’s degree involving major study in business or public administration or closely allied field.
Compensation At the ETE 3 level $4,740 to $6,384 per month (Range 53), depending on qualifications.
At the ETE 3 (in‑training) level $4,299 to $5,783 per month (Range 49), depending on qualifications. After successful completion of the in‑training plan you will advance to the Excise Tax Examiner 3 level.
NOTE - For current Department of Revenue employees and union members of the WPEA, current promotion rules will apply if selected.
To be considered
Please complete/update your application as it will be used as your resume.
Please attach a letter of interest, describing your specific qualifications and interest for this position.
* Note - Failure to follow the application instructions or attaching the required documents may result in your disqualification.
Throughout our selection process, we will also be evaluating candidates for knowledge, skills, abilities, behaviors, and capacity for effective leadership that aligns with the culture of DOR.
To take advantage of Veteran’s preference, please attach your DD‑214, member 4 long form, or your NGB‑22. Please blackout your social security number and date of birth before attaching.
Questions Hello, my name is Patrick and I will be assisting with this announcement. As a 20‑year Army veteran, I understand the difficulty finding an enjoyable 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) 704‑5738.
Supplemental Information The Human Resource Division may use referrals from this recruitment to help fill future similar vacancies for up to six months.
This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement between the Department of Revenue and the Washington Public Employees Association (WPEA).
Prior to a new hire, a 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 in the position.
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.
Benefits Overview Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation. 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.
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.
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees’ Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer‑contributed retirement programs. Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). 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. 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.
Leave and Flexible Time Policies Full‑time and part‑time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year. Employees who are members of certain unions may be entitled to additional personal leave days; please refer to position‑specific collective bargaining agreements for more information. Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) provisions, leave sharing, parental leave, military leave (21 days paid per year), bereavement leave (five days paid), vacation, sick leave and other leave options are available as governed by state law and applicable agreements.
Other Details Updated 01‑07‑2026
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
Please elaborate on any “Other” answers from above.
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
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)?
Yes
No
Required Question
#J-18808-Ljbffr