Administrative Specialist, Senior

WCSO; Hillsboro (OR); On-site; USD 39,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

The Washington County Sheriff's Office is seeking a highly organized Senior Administrative Specialist to support the Hiring Department and keep the deputy hiring process running smoothly. This role handles applicant communications, high-volume documentation, and hiring milestones with accuracy and professionalism.

Ideal candidates will be detail-oriented, able to balance priorities, and thrive in a fast-paced environment while upholding department procedures and compliance.

Qualifications

• Modern office practices and methods.
• Operational characteristics and applications of data processing equipment.
• Proper use of business English, spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
• Operation and maintenance of office equipment and machinery.
• Provide timely, effective, and efficient customer service to the general public, clients, and other employees.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate applicant communications and manage high-volume documentation.
• Track hiring milestones and ensure compliance with procedures.
• Assist Hiring Program Coordinator with various programs and recruit/background teams.

Skills

Office administration

Data entry

Customer service

English communication

Independent work

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

4 years administrative experience

Tools

Office suite

Data management

Job description

Note: This job will be posted through 11:59 PM of the day prior to the end date listed. Current Washington County Employees: Please apply through the employee portal to be considered for this opportunity. Job Type: Regular Pay Range: $28.38 - $34.50 Hourly Department: Sheriff's Office FLSA Exemption Status: Non-Exempt.

About the Opportunity

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office is seeking a highly organized and proactive Senior Administrative Specialist to support the Hiring Department and help keep the deputy hiring process, along with several other staffing workflows, running smoothly. This role plays a key part in maintaining efficient operations by coordinating applicant communications, managing high-volume documentation, tracking hiring milestones, and ensuring compliance with departmental procedures. Additionally, the Senior Administrative specialist assists the Hiring Program Coordinator with various programs and works directly with the recruitment and background teams. This position requires the successful candidate to be detail‑oriented, able to balance multiple priorities, and comfortable working in a fast‑paced environment where accuracy and professionalism are essential. By supporting both leadership and applicants, this position helps ensure that the Sheriff’s Office continues to staff qualified, dedicated personnel who serve the community effectively.

Ideal Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)

• Modern office practices and methods.
• Operational characteristics and applications of data processing equipment.
• Proper use of business English, spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
• Operation and maintenance of office equipment and machinery.
• Provide timely, effective, and efficient customer service to the general public, clients, and other employees.
• Interact patiently with individuals making inquiries regarding various County programs and services who have little or no experience or knowledge of the services provided.
• Type at a speed necessary for successful job performance.
• Communicate effectively in English, both orally and in writing.
• Prepare complete and accurate reports.
• Operate personal computer systems and software.
• Work independently in the absence of supervision.
• Interpret and apply applicable federal, state, and local laws, rules and regulations, and policies.
• Effectively administer a variety of duties with competing priorities.
• Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with individuals and groups who come from diverse backgrounds and represent members of the public, coworkers, and/or vendors.

To review the complete classification, including the full list of knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) associated with this position, use this link: Senior Administrative Specialist Minimum Qualifications Education and Experience.

Minimum Qualifications

A high school diploma or equivalent.

AND Four (4) years of progressively responsible experience providing administrative or clerical support.

Additional Requirements

The selected candidate will be required to pass a post-offer drug screen.

Background Check

The selected finalist(s) for this position must be able to pass a thorough background investigation conducted by the Sheriff's Office. The background Investigation for this position typically take 6-8 weeks to complete so you will want to plan accordingly. The information that will be required when you complete the Personal History Statement includes, but is not limited to:

• Employment Information (past 10 years or back to age 17; 3 co- workers will be requested from each past employer)
• Residential Information (past 10 years or back to age 17)
• Financial Information
• References (6 without using the same people as coworker or supervisor references)
• Family Member Information
• Driving History
• Past/Present Drug Use and/or Controlled Substances
• Criminal History

About the Department/Division

The Washington County Sheriff's Office (WCSO) is a full-service law enforcement agency located in Hillsboro, Oregon, serving the residents of the county's urban and rural areas. WCSO enhances public safety by fostering professionalism, compassion, and trust within its team and the communities it serves. WCSO is the primary first responder for unincorporated residents, offering services from routine patrol and crime investigation to specialized teams. The WCSO also operates the county’s only jail and provides services to cities within the county on a contract basis.

Selection Process

You can review our standard selection process here.

Our Commitment to You

Washington County is an equal opportunity employer committed to using a merit-based system in which recruiting, selecting, and advancing employees is based on knowledge, skills, and abilities. Our organization embraces innovation, collaboration, and work-life harmony. We promote employee development and offer an award-winning benefits and wellness program as well as an opportunity to serve and support our vibrant community.

Veterans' Preference

If you are a Veteran and would like to be considered for Veterans' preference for this recruitment, please review the instructions using this link: Veterans' Preference Points.

Accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act

Reasonable accommodation is available to anyone whose specific disability prevents them from completing this application or participating in the selection process for this recruitment. To obtain confidential assistance please contact Human Resources 503-846-8606, or email: [e-mail] at least 48 hours before any step in the recruitment and selection process for which you feel you need accommodation.

Status of Your Application

You will be advised by email of your status at each step in the application process, from initial application to final employment disposition. Please note that Washington County communicates with all candidates via email.

Notice

Washington County is currently undergoing a comprehensive classification and compensation study. The purpose of this project is to create new job descriptions and create new classification and compensation systems. Outcomes of the project will include changes to classification titles, which could impact compensation structures. No one will have their pay rate lowered because of this project. For represented positions, appropriate bargaining processes will be utilized prior to implementation.

Benefits & Wellness Program Veteran’s Preference Information Access & Opportunity Resolution Labor Agreements