Ethics and Whistleblower Advisor, Trainer, and Investigator

Full Job Description

The Seattle Ethics and Elections Commission (SEEC) is an independent agency working to promote public confidence in government through the City's Ethics, Whistleblower, Lobbying, and Elections Codes.

We are committed to integrity, impartiality, independence, and transparency. Seattle's Ethics Code is a model for other cities across the nation.

The SEEC investigates allegations of Ethics Code violations, including, but not limited to, conflicts of interest, misuse of City property, waste of public funds, improper gifts, and other prohibited conduct.

You can find more information about the Code and our office by visiting our website.

As the Ethics and Whistleblower Advisor, Trainer, and Investigator, you will serve as a key resource for residents, City employees, and elected officials - helping them understand the Ethics Code and investigating allegations of misconduct.

Your primary responsibilities include:

• Receiving and evaluating complaints and conducting investigations.
• Training employees on ethics and whistleblower protections.
• Assisting with Public Records Requests as needed.
• Assisting with City investigations as needed.

Requirements

You will be successful if you have a passion for:

• Independent investigation of matters affecting public trust and personal responsibility
• Being a resource to City residents, City employees, and City leaders who are navigating difficult situations
• Operating in an environment that strives for impartiality and transparency
• Gathering and analyzing performance data to ensure that resources are being used optimally
• Continually refining and improving best practices, policies, and documentation
• Learning new information and synthesizing it with a team

Your effectiveness in this role will depend on your ability to:

• Maintain a high level of confidentiality and discretion
• Demonstrate deep emotional intelligence and empathy

• Communicate effectively orally and in writing with diverse audiences, including city officials and employees at all levels of government
• Interpret and enforce the Seattle Ethics, Elections, and Whistleblower Protection Codes
• Complete investigations using traditional and digital tools
• Create and conduct Ethics & Whistleblower trainings
• Manage and track multiple projects simultaneously
• Write reports with strong attention to detail and a high level of accuracy
• Own data and metric reporting in Excel, Access, or something similar
• Demonstrate sound judgement and handle politically charged matters diplomatically

You’ll be well-prepared for this role if you bring:

• Legal training and/or experience interpreting and applying laws and regulations

• A track record of managing investigations from intake through interviews, research, analysis, and recommendations

• Expertise as a subject matter resource on investigative processes

• Experience designing and delivering training on ethics, compliance, or whistleblower protections is beneficial

• The ability to navigate politically sensitive situations with discretion and sound judgment
• Strong skills in preparing clear, thorough reports and documentation
• Experience using document retrieval systems and CRM tools

Please note: This job ad is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Qualifications

We seek to hire someone who will thrive in a strong team environment and champion equity and inclusion. Transferable skills and lived experience are welcome. If you meet most qualifications and are passionate about integrity in public service, we encourage you to apply!

A successful applicant will demonstrate:

• Knowledge of ethics codes, policies, and whistleblower issues in the public sector
• Ability to provide strategic advice on complex legal or policy matters
• Skill in maintaining and leveraging data for evidence-based decisions
• Familiarity with the City’s Race & Social Justice Initiative or experience applying a social justice lens to your work
• Commitment to listening, creating space for diverse perspectives, and pursuing inclusive, just outcomes

Additional Information

This part-time, benefits-eligible, overtime-exempt position is classified as a Strategic Advisor 1, Exempt, and reports to the SEEC Director.

The full salary range for this classification is $51.88 - $77.82 per hour.

After a pay equity and budget analysis, the targeted salary for this role is $115,591.68 annually ($69.20/hr based on 1670.4 hours a year)

Work Environment: This position offers the flexibility of a hybrid work schedule. This is a part-time role scheduled for 32 hours a week. Individual schedules will be based on agreement between the employee and their supervisor.

Benefits: The City of Seattle offers a comprehensive benefits package including vacation, holiday, and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, life, and long-term disability insurance for employees and their dependents.

More information about employee benefits is available on the City's website at: https://www.seattle.gov/human-resources/benefits/employees-and-covered-family-members/most-employees-plans

Why work at the City of Seattle?

At the City of Seattle, public service is more than a job; it’s a chance to shape the future and make a meaningful difference in the lives of everyone who works, lives, or plays in our city.

With 12,000 employees across 40+ departments and 1,100 job titles, we are united by a common purpose: to create a Seattle that is vibrant and welcoming for all.

Whatever your role, you’ll help power a forward-looking city that leads by example - inclusive, innovative, equitable, and community-focused - while joining a diverse team committed to solving challenges and making a lasting impact together.

Join us in building a Seattle where everyone thrives!

APPLICATION PROCESS:

Here are some informational-only tips on applying and interviewing with us!

To be considered, you must include a resume and a cover letter with your application by the posted deadline at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/seattle

• Cover Letter: Explain why you want to do this work and how you meet the qualifications
• Resume: Summarize your experience, talents, knowledge, and skills

Please note: The Seattle Ethics and Elections Commission does not use artificial intelligence (AI) or automated tools to screen or evaluate applications. Every application is reviewed by a member of our hiring team to ensure an equitable and human-centered process.

Who may apply: This position is open to all applicants who demonstrate alignment with the skills and experience described above. The City of Seattle values diverse perspectives and life experiences.

Applicants will be considered regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, marital status, disability, religious or political affiliation, age, sexual orientation, or gender identity.

The City encourages people of all backgrounds to apply, including people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ, people with disabilities, veterans, and those with diverse life experiences.

Hiring Timeline: We anticipate conducting first and second round interviews in late March and early April 2026. The target start dates are either April 22^nd or May 6^th.

Pre-Employment Requirements: If selected to advance in this hiring process, applicants will need to successfully pass a background check, which will be conducted in accordance with Seattle’s Fair Chance Employment Ordinance, SMC 14.17.

Applicants will be given a chance to explain or correct background information and provide verifiable information of good conduct and rehabilitation.

Accommodations and Questions: We strive to make our hiring process accessible to all.

Individuals with disabilities will be provided reasonable accommodations to participate in the job application or interview process, perform essential job functions, and receive other benefits and privileges of employment.

Please contact Nicolette.Hornbeck@seattle.gov with questions or to request accommodations.