Contracts Specialist (COM3)

ABOUT THE ROLE This position works in the Multifamily Housing Unit of the Housing Division, partnering with local governments, Tribes, housing authorities, and nonprofits. The role is responsible for developing and maintaining complex contract and legal documents to protect state interests in investments made through state and federal housing programs, including the Housing Trust Fund (HTF), federal HOME, and National Housing Trust Fund (NHTF). It also provides technical assistance to program contractors and staff regarding agency contracting requirements and related legal documents. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Develop, review, and negotiate terms for capital contracts for loans and grants, including Promissory Notes, Assignment Agreements, Deeds of Trust, and Covenant Agreements. - Determine correct forms, templates, and language based on the financial structure of the project. - Collaborate with contractors, attorneys, title and escrow companies, developers, and internal managers to execute complex legal and security documents. - Recommend the development of contracting and legal templates, policies, and procedures under housing programs. - Analyze and interpret current legislation, budget provisos, state and federal regulations, and contract terminology. - Input and verify data in the Contracts Management System (CMS) and Housing Contracts Management System (HCMS) databases. - Track receipt of insurance certificates, verify information against contract requirements, and ensure proper imaging and indexing. - Oversee quality management of document tracking, retention, and imaging system requirements. - Provide guidance to unit staff on the use of data and imaging systems. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Seven (7) years of combined experience and/or education in community, trade, or economic development with a focus in two or more of the following areas: Affordable housing, Housing finance, Real Estate, Contracting, or Knowledge of real estate contracts and transactions. - Education involving housing finance, business, public administration, or a related field may substitute year-for-year for experience (e.g., 4 years of experience and 3 years of education). SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Intermediate skill level in Microsoft Office suite products (OneDrive, Teams, SharePoint, Excel, Word, Outlook). - Ability to openly and honestly communicate, actively engage co-workers and contractors, and work well with diverse groups. - Ability to work well under stress and meet tight deadlines. - Strong proof-reading and editing skills. - Preferred qualifications include experience with multifamily housing financing, affordable housing programs (HTF, LIHTC, HOME, NHTF), Notary license, Paralegal certification, or Limited Practice Officer certification. SELECTION PROCESS - Candidates will be evaluated based on their application materials, including the cover letter and professional references. - This recruitment may be used to fill future vacancies over the next 60 days. - The Department of Commerce is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from diverse backgrounds. Accommodations are available upon request. HOW TO APPLY - Submit a complete and detailed online application. - Enter a cover letter online as part of the application process. - Provide at least three professional references online. - For questions, contact the recruitment team via email at comrecruitment@commerce.wa.gov and reference the job number in the message. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: State of Washington, Department of Commerce - Division: Housing Division, Multifamily Housing Unit - Job Type: Full Time - Permanent - Job Number: 2026-07046 - Location: Multiple Locations Statewide, WA (Work from Anywhere in Washington State, with occasional travel for equipment pickup or meetings) - Opening Date: 08/21/2026 - Closing Date: 9/7/2026 11:59 PM Pacific - Benefits: Medical and dental insurance, retirement and deferred compensation plans, 11 paid holidays, 14-25 vacation days per year, 8 hours of sick leave per month, bereavement leave, and an employee assistance program.