L&I Customer Service Specialist 2 - Bilingual (Spanish)

State of Washington; Olympia (WA); On-site; USD 48,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

5% bilingual pay increase

Flexible work options

In-office schedule Monday–Friday

Generous retirement benefits

Job summary

Labor & Industries (L&I) in Washington seeks a bilingual Customer Service Specialist 2 to support licensing, registration and permit processes. The role emphasizes accurate processing, in‑office collaboration, and strong customer service in English and Spanish.

You’ll handle inquiries, guide applicants through state workflows, and use interpreters when needed, with a 5% bilingual pay premium and a Monday–Friday on‑site schedule.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent and two years of experience providing assistance to clients/customers regarding inquiries, complaints or problems.
• One year of experience as a Customer Service Specialist 1.
• Equivalent education/experience.
• Bilingual: You must be fluent in both English and Spanish (reading, writing, and speaking). We don’t use translation software.

Responsibilities

• Independently processes licensing, registration & permit applications for completeness and accuracy as defined in statewide standard work.
• Reviews and processes registration and licensing applications for contractors; guides customers and researches in internal databases.
• Explains and guides customers on bonds, liability insurance, and related requirements.
• Calculates and collects processing fees; records data and payments in systems; maintains fiscal integrity.
• Assists customers using L&I services and interprets as needed; travels to multiple offices to provide coverage.

Skills

Bilingual English/Spanish

Customer service

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Job description

OR Equivalent education/experience

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 has been reopened to expand the candidate pool. Previous applicants do not need to reapply.

At Labor & Industries (L&I), we’re on a mission to support the safety and well‑being of Washington’s workers. And guess what? We need YOU to be a part of that mission! If you’re someone who enjoys making a positive impact, solving problems, and helping others, then our Customer Service Specialist 2 - Bilingual role is just the opportunity you’ve been looking for!

This position is a full‑time position with flexible work options plus 5% pay increase for bilingual skills (if applies). The expected time spent in‑office will be Monday through Friday.

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

What’s in it for YOU?

• Make a Difference: Your work will contribute to the safety, economic well‑being, and success of Washington’s workers. Your role will directly impact real people!
• Work‑Life Balance: Depending on business needs, you may be eligible for telework or flexible schedule options after your probation period.
• Generous Benefits: From medical coverage to retirement plans, we’ve got you covered. Plus, enjoy generous vacation time to recharge and grow.
• Great Team Culture: We believe in diversity, respect, and creating a workplace where everyone’s voice is heard. Join a team that’s passionate about service and learning!
• Opportunity for Growth: Whether it's mastering new programs or advancing your career, we’ll provide ongoing training and development opportunities.

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 key part of our team, you’ll:

• Independently Processes Licensing, Registration & Permit Applications For Completeness And Accuracy In Accordance With Statewide Standard Work As Defined In Customer Service University
• Reviews, researches, and processes registration and licensing applications for construction contractors to telephone and walk‑in customers. Researches each applicant in multiple internal databases for outstanding debts owed the agency. Researches and evaluates business’s standing with Business License Services/Department of Revenue, and if applicable Secretary of State. Educates and guides customers regarding applications and/or additional requirements that may include other local, state and federal agencies.
• Uses written and interpersonal communication with bonding and insurance agents to resolve issues regarding surety bonds and certificates of liability insurance.
• Calculates and collects appropriate processing fees. Completes entry of both required data and payment information in appropriate systems to issue the license, certificate or registration. In all money transactions, adheres to established cash management policies, procedures, i.e.: reconciliation and documentation. Maintains fiscal integrity in the handling of currency, checks, credit/debit cards and receipts.

Assists Customers Using Technical Knowledge Of Business Services:

• Educate customers in accessing L&I services including and not limited to Claims and Account Center, Pay Balance Due, Electrical Permitting (EPIS), Quick File.
• Assists customers using the Customer Service Center, Secretary of State registrations, dissolutions, and amendments.
• On behalf of Business Licensing Services, for Department of Revenue, assists customers using the Customer Center for Business License applications, renewals, and city endorsements. Issue UBIs for new applications.
• Utilizes telephonic interpretive services to assist customers with limited English proficiency. Escalates complaints regarding service issues to the CSS4 or Language Access Coordinator.
• As directed by the CSS4, assists as a resource for new CSS staff.
• Travels between multiple L&I office locations within the region or statewide to provide critical front counter and operational support, including during staffing shortages to provide necessary coverage, to minimize delays in office openings, to ensure continuity of service, and to avoid cancellation of scheduled customer appointments and office closures.
• When needed performs any of the duties of lower‑level staff.
• And so much more!

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or equivalent and two years of experience providing assistance to clients/customers regarding inquiries, complaints or problems.
• One year of experience as a Customer Service Specialist 1.
• Equivalent education/experience.

In Addition

Bilingual: You must be fluent in both English and Spanish (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.

Required Equity Competencies

• The ability to take action to learn and grow
• The ability to take action to meet the needs of others

Desired Qualifications

• Communication Skills: You can communicate effectively, making even complex information easy to understand.
• Customer‑Centered: You’re passionate about helping people and creating positive experiences. You’ll thrive in a fast‑paced environment where every day brings new challenges and opportunities.
• Tech‑Savvy: You’ll use multiple systems, so being comfortable with technology is essential.

• 1 year of cash handling experience

Supplemental Information

Things You Need To Know

State employees who meet the qualifications will become eligible for a generous retirement package at the end of the employee’s career. Click on the "Benefits" tab to learn more.

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.

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.

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

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

Note: 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?

In addition to offering a positive balance between life and work, L&I provides one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation. We also believe your voice matters. We value our employees and their work‑life balance by encouraging flexible schedules. L&I is a diverse state agency dedicated to the safety and health and security of Washington's 3 million workers.

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 [e-mail].

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 contributes to the success of the agency’s mission. Having a diverse workforce is this agency’s greatest source 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. People 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 April Sharp.

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 non‑overtime 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 non‑overtime 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