State of Washington

HQ
Olympia
Total Offices: 13
9,134 Total Employees
Year Founded: 1889

State of Washington Compensation & Benefits

Updated on September 18, 2026

This page summarizes recurring themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about State of Washington and has not been reviewed or approved by State of Washington.

How are the compensation & benefits at State of Washington?

Strengths in healthcare, retirement, and paid leave are accompanied by challenges in base pay competitiveness. Together, these dynamics suggest a benefits-forward total rewards profile that can attract those prioritizing coverage and time off, while dampening enthusiasm for those seeking market-aligned salaries.

Key Insight for Candidates

Defining tradeoff: below-market base pay offset by an unusually comprehensive, affordable benefits package. Expect strong health coverage (including fully paid dental), pension contributions, and generous paid leave to anchor total rewards, yet cash compensation typically lags private employers. Candidates prioritizing stability and benefits may feel well-compensated; salary-maximizers may not.

Evidence in Action

  • PEBB-Led Benefits Backbone — Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) administers coverage with 11 paid holidays, 12–25 vacation days, 12 sick days, fully paid dental premiums, employer retirement contributions, and a Deferred Compensation Program. This predictable package standardizes value across roles, helping employees manage healthcare costs and plan long-term finances.
  • OFM-Verified Pay Lag — Office of Financial Management 2024 compensation survey shows base salary lagging market by 18.2% and total compensation by 16.5%. Employees anticipate below-market pay and weigh roles through total rewards, leaning on benefits and leave to make overall value work.

Positive Themes About State of Washington

  • Healthcare Strength: Healthcare coverage is described as strong and affordable, with multiple medical plan options and the state fully paying employee dental premiums.
  • Retirement Support: Retirement programs are characterized as robust, with employer contributions and access to a tax-deferred Deferred Compensation Program.
  • Leave & Time Off Breadth: Paid time off is presented as generous, including 11 paid holidays, sick leave, and vacation that increases with tenure, alongside additional options for parental/family care and military service.

Considerations About State of Washington

  • Poor or Misaligned Recognition & Rewards: Compensation is often described as below market, and overall sentiment on pay levels is only moderate even when benefits are seen as strong.
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These insights are generated using AI and may not reflect internal data or verified company information. They are intended solely for general informational purposes and should not be considered a definitive assessment of the company’s reputation. If you are a representative of this company, and would like this page to be removed, you may contact us via this form.
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