Washington State Department of Ecology

Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen The Department of Ecology is hiring a Permit Writer  (Environmental Specialist 4) within the  Water Resources Program. (WR) Location:  Headquarters Office in Lacey, WA . Upon hire, you must live within a commutable distance from the duty station. Schedule:  This position is eligible for telework and flexible schedule options. This position is required to be in the office 2 days each week, on Tuesday and Wednesday. Schedules are dependent upon position needs and are subject to change. Application Timeline:  Apply by October 21, 2026 Applications submitted after the date above may not be reviewed unless additional qualified applicants are needed. Duties In this role, you will have the exciting opportunity to implement Washington Water Law. You will be responsible for managing, processing, evaluating, and drafting support documents for water right decisions. This includes completing investigations by researching, collecting, and analyzing technical data and other information to support water right decisions. You will have the opportunity to identify issues and find possible solutions. You will get to interact with other government agencies, municipalities, and citizens that are looking for water for their projects or homes. There is also an opportunity to let your GIS and mapping skills shine. We are looking for people that want to make a difference, enjoy being part of a team, and are willing to learn. What you will do:  Recommend and process water right decisions. Conduct investigations and technical reviews to support decisions. Evaluate projects for feasibility, compliance with laws, regulations, and policies. Work with other local and state government agencies and Tribes regarding Washington water law. Respond to inquiries from water right applicants, their consultants, other agency staff and the public. Develop maps and locate water rights using GIS and web mapping tools and software. Qualifications For detailed information on how we calculate experience and responses to other frequently asked questions, please visit our Recruitment website . Required Qualifications: Nine years of combined education and/or experience related to the duties of the position, that includes the following: • Experience collecting, researching, and analyzing complex hydrologic or hydrogeologic data to support technical evaluations and regulatory decisions. • Ability to apply scientific, hydrologic, or hydrogeologic findings and/or principles to permitting related decisions. • Demonstrated skill in preparing technical written reports that summarize analyses, findings, and defensible recommendations for permitting decisions. • Ability to conduct and interpret field investigations under the oversight of a licensed hydrogeologist, including groundwater and surface water related analyses. • Experience reviewing proposed water related projects for legal, technical, and policy compliance. • Strong communication and customer service skills, with the ability to interact professionally with applicants, consultants, tribal governments, partner agencies, and the public. • Ability to manage and monitor complex permitting systems, for example water right authorizations. • Familiarity with GIS and mapping tools to analyze and document water rights information, and ability to serve as a technical resource on mapping related tasks. • Ability to mentor and support junior staff, collaborate on statewide workgroups, and independently manage workload priorities in a regulatory environment. Education: Involving a major study in environmental, physical, or one of the natural sciences; environmental or natural science interdisciplinary studies; environmental planning, or related studies. Examples of how to qualify: 9 years of experience. 8 years of experience AND 30-59 semester or 45-89 quarter college credits. 7 years of experience AND 60-89 semester or 90-134 quarter college credits (Associate’s degree). 6 years of experience AND 90-119 semester or 135-179 quarter college credits. 5 years of experience AND a Bachelor’s degree. 3 years of experience AND a Master’s degree. 2 years of experience AND a Ph.D. Desired Qualifications: Bachelor Degree in environmental, physical, or one of the natural sciences; environmental or natural science interdisciplinary studies; environmental planning, or an academic discipline related to the duties of the position.   Demonstrated professional experience implementing water resource management laws and rules Knowledge of Washington State water law, related rules, policies, and water rights permitting processes,  Experience in applied geology, hydrogeology, or related disciplines.   If you are excited about this role and meet the required qualifications, we encourage you to apply. Desired qualifications reflect additional knowledge, skills, or experience that are nice to have but not required. Studies have shown that some applicants, especially women and people of color, are less likely to apply unless they meet every listed qualification. At the Department of Ecology, we are dedicated to building a diverse and authentic workplace centered in belonging, and we welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and unique perspectives. Supplemental Information Ecology does not use the E-Verify system; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov . Our Commitment to DEIR Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Respect (DEIR)  are core values central to Ecology's work. We strive to be a workplace where we are esteemed for sharing our authentic identities, while advancing our individual professional goals and collaborating to protect, preserve, and enhance the environment for current and future generations.  Diversity: We celebrate and appreciate diversity; our unique perspectives and abilities enrich us all and lead to innovative approaches and solutions. Equity:  We champion equity, recognizing that each of us need different things to thrive. Inclusion: We intentionally create and hold space so that we all have meaningful opportunities to participate and contribute to Ecology’s work. Respect:  We treat each other with respect and dignity, acknowledging the inherent worth of our diverse perspectives and lived experiences, even in times of uncertainty and disagreement. We believe that DEIR is both a goal and an action. We are on a journey, honoring our shared humanity and taking steps to demonstrate our commitment to a vision where each of us is heard, seen, and valued.  Application Process Ecology seeks diverse applicants: We view diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect through a broad lens including race, ethnicity, class, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, immigration status, military background, language, education, life experience, physical disability, neurodiversity, and intersectional identities. Qualified job seekers from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. How to Apply Click “Apply” at the top of this page. Complete the entire application, including full work history and responses to all supplemental questions, and attach: Cover letter, describing your interest in and qualifications for this position  Resume Because we base our selection on the information you provide, it is in your best interest to complete the application thoroughly. A resume will not substitute for the “work experience” section of the application or vice versa. Applications with blank fields or supplemental question responses with comments such as “see resume” may be considered incomplete.  For detailed application information, please visit our Recruitment website. Application Attestation: By submitting an application, you are affirming that the information contained in your application and on all attachments is complete and truthful. The state may verify this information, and any false or misleading answers may result in rejection of your application or dismissal if employed.   Need an Accommodation? If you need reasonable accommodation during the application and/or screening process, including this job announcement in an alternate format: Please contact us at 360-407-6186 or careers@ecy.wa.gov   If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 711 or 1-800-833-6384. Questions? For specific questions about the position location options, schedule, or duties, please contact Melanie Redding at Melanie.Redding@ecy.wa.gov   If you need assistance applying for this job, are inquiring about the status of your application, would like to request the full position description, or have any other questions, please contact the Recruitment Team at careers@ecy.wa.gov Water Resources Program Mission:  We manage water resources to benefit all Washingtonians and to protect the natural environment for current and future generations. About the Department of Ecology As the State of Washington’s environmental protection agency, we are deeply committed to protecting, preserving, and enhancing Washington’s environment for current and future generations. Joining Ecology means becoming part of a team dedicated to protecting and sustaining healthy land, air, water, and climate in harmony with a strong economy. A career in public service at Ecology allows you to help solve some of the most challenging problems facing our state, while keeping your health and financial security a priority. We combine one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation with a strong commitment to life/work balance. We invest in our employees to create and sustain a working environment that encourages creative leadership, effective resource management, teamwork, professionalism, and accountability. Ecology employees may be eligible for the following: Medical/Dental/Vision for employee & dependent(s) , Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) , Vacation, Sick, and other Leave *, 11 Paid Holidays per year *, Public Service Loan Forgiveness , Tuition Waiver ,   Long Term Disability & Life Insurance , Deferred Compensation Programs , Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP) ,   Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA) , Employee Assistance Program , Commute Trip Reduction Incentive , Combined Fund Drive , SmartHealth * Click here for more information To learn more about Ecology, please visit our website , explore Working at Ecology , check out our Strategic Plan , and connect with us on LinkedIn , Facebook , Instagram , YouTube , or our blog .  Equal Opportunity Employer: The Washington State Department of Ecology is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, veterans, military spouses or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply. Collective Bargaining: This is a position covered by a bargaining unit for which the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) is the exclusive representative.    Note:  This recruitment may be used to fill other positions of the same job classification across the agency. Once all the position(s) from the recruitment announcement are filled, the recruitment may only be used to fill additional open positions for the next sixty (60) days.

Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen The Department of Ecology is hiring a Municipal Stormwater Permit Planner (Environmental Planner 3)  within the Water Quality Program . Location:  Headquarters Office in Lacey, WA . Upon hire, you must live within a commutable distance from the duty station. Schedule:  This position is eligible for telework and flexible schedule options. A minimum of one day per week is required in the office.  Schedules are dependent upon position needs and are subject to change. Application Timeline:  Apply by October 26, 2026 Applications submitted after the date above may not be reviewed unless additional qualified applicants are needed. Duties As a Municipal Stormwater Permit Planner, you will be responsible for guiding the development and implementation of municipal stormwater programs run by city and county governments and special purpose districts. You will be assigned to permittees in Thurston, Lewis, Grays Harbor, Lewis, Cowlitz and Clark County.  If you have experience in urban planning, stormwater program planning or implementation, or working collaboratively with local governments, we’d love to hear from you! Join a dedicated group of people who are committed to protecting Washington’s waters for current and future generations. What you will do:  Provide stormwater planning technical assistance to local governments. Assist counties and municipalities in developing, planning, and coordinating stormwater programs that benefit water quality. Contribute as a member of a statewide team to continually adapt permit requirements in response to new information, population demands, and technological advancements. Respond to inquiries, environmental reports, and other requests for technical assistance from permittees, other agencies and programs, and the public. Review, comment, and approve permit submittals. Conduct compliance assurance activities including inspections and audits of permittee programs, and initiate enforcement actions as needed. Qualifications For detailed information on how we calculate experience and responses to other frequently asked questions, please visit our Recruitment website . Required Qualifications: Eight (8) years of experience and/or education related to the duties of the position, which must include the following: Program Planning – Ability to plan and coordinate projects and initiatives to achieve program goals and improve environmental outcomes. Policy Development – Ability to develop clear and practical policies, procedures, and standards to support consistent and effective permit and program implementation. Technical Evaluation – Ability to evaluate technical documents, program materials, and local codes to determine whether they meet required standards and support program objectives. Compliance & Enforcement Support – Ability to assess compliance through audits, inspections, and document reviews to identify issues and support appropriate corrective or enforcement actions. Communication & Outreach – Ability to communicate technical and program information clearly and provide outreach and education to support understanding and engagement among partners and the public. Collaboration & Relationship Building – Ability to work collaboratively and maintain effective relationships with agencies, local governments, organizations, and the public to support coordinated and successful program delivery. Independent Judgment – Ability to use professional judgment to make sound decisions and manage complex tasks with minimal supervision to ensure effective program outcomes. Education  involving a major study in land use, urban, regional, environmental, or natural resource planning, landscape architecture, geography, civil engineering, environmental law, public administration with an environmental emphasis, or closely related field.. Examples of how to qualify: 8 years of experience. 7 years of experience AND 30-59 semester or 45-89 quarter college credits. 6 years of experience AND 60-89 semester or 90-134 quarter college credits (Associate’s degree). 5 years of experience AND 90-119 semester or 135-179 quarter college credits. 4 years of experience AND a Bachelor’s degree. 2 years of experience AND a Master’s degree or above. Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment:  Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license or provide alternate reliable transportation for travel within the state of Washington. Desired Qualifications: Experience with complex Clean Water Act-related statutes, regulations, and permits. Experience applying negotiation and conflict resolution skills. If you are excited about this role and meet the required qualifications, we encourage you to apply. Desired qualifications reflect additional knowledge, skills, or experience that are nice to have but not required. Studies have shown that some applicants, especially women and people of color, are less likely to apply unless they meet every listed qualification. At the Department of Ecology, we are dedicated to building a diverse and authentic workplace centered in belonging, and we welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and unique perspectives. Supplemental Information Ecology does not use the E-Verify system; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov . Our Commitment to DEIR Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Respect (DEIR)  are core values central to Ecology's work. We strive to be a workplace where we are esteemed for sharing our authentic identities, while advancing our individual professional goals and collaborating to protect, preserve, and enhance the environment for current and future generations.  Diversity: We celebrate and appreciate diversity; our unique perspectives and abilities enrich us all and lead to innovative approaches and solutions. Equity:  We champion equity, recognizing that each of us need different things to thrive. Inclusion: We intentionally create and hold space so that we all have meaningful opportunities to participate and contribute to Ecology’s work. Respect:  We treat each other with respect and dignity, acknowledging the inherent worth of our diverse perspectives and lived experiences, even in times of uncertainty and disagreement. We believe that DEIR is both a goal and an action. We are on a journey, honoring our shared humanity and taking steps to demonstrate our commitment to a vision where each of us is heard, seen, and valued.  Application Process Ecology seeks diverse applicants: We view diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect through a broad lens including race, ethnicity, class, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, immigration status, military background, language, education, life experience, physical disability, neurodiversity, and intersectional identities. Qualified job seekers from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. How to Apply Click “Apply” at the top of this page. Complete the entire application, including full work history and responses to all supplemental questions, and attach: Cover letter, describing your interest in and qualifications for this position  Resume Because we base our selection on the information you provide, it is in your best interest to complete the application thoroughly. A resume will not substitute for the “work experience” section of the application or vice versa. Applications with blank fields or supplemental question responses with comments such as “see resume” may be considered incomplete.  For detailed application information, please visit our Recruitment website. Application Attestation: By submitting an application, you are affirming that the information contained in your application and on all attachments is complete and truthful. The state may verify this information, and any false or misleading answers may result in rejection of your application or dismissal if employed.   Need an Accommodation? If you need reasonable accommodation during the application and/or screening process, including this job announcement in an alternate format: Please contact us at 360-407-6186 and select #2 for Recruitment or email careers@ecy.wa.gov   If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 711 or 1-800-833-6384. Questions? For specific questions about the position location options, schedule, or duties, please contact Gabe Raso  at Gabe.Raso@ecy.wa.gov If you need assistance applying for this job, are inquiring about the status of your application, would like to request the full position description, or have any other questions, please contact the Recruitment Team at careers@ecy.wa.gov About the Department of Ecology As the State of Washington’s environmental protection agency, we are deeply committed to protecting, preserving, and enhancing Washington’s environment for current and future generations. Joining Ecology means becoming part of a team dedicated to protecting and sustaining healthy land, air, water, and climate in harmony with a strong economy. A career in public service at Ecology allows you to help solve some of the most challenging problems facing our state, while keeping your health and financial security a priority. We combine one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation with a strong commitment to life/work balance. We invest in our employees to create and sustain a working environment that encourages creative leadership, effective resource management, teamwork, professionalism, and accountability. Ecology employees may be eligible for the following: Medical/Dental/Vision for employee & dependent(s) , Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) , Vacation, Sick, and other Leave *, 11 Paid Holidays per year *, Public Service Loan Forgiveness , Tuition Waiver ,   Long Term Disability & Life Insurance , Deferred Compensation Programs , Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP) ,   Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA) , Employee Assistance Program , Commute Trip Reduction Incentive , Combined Fund Drive , SmartHealth * Click here for more information To learn more about Ecology, please visit our website , explore Working at Ecology , check out our Strategic Plan , and connect with us on LinkedIn , Facebook , Instagram , YouTube , or our blog .  Equal Opportunity Employer: The Washington State Department of Ecology is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, veterans, military spouses or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply. Collective Bargaining: This is a position covered by a bargaining unit for which the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) is the exclusive representative.    Note:  This recruitment may be used to fill other positions of the same job classification across the agency. Once all the position(s) from the recruitment announcement are filled, the recruitment may only be used to fill additional open positions for the next sixty (60) days.

Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen The Department of Ecology is hiring a Permit Manager and Data Quality Specialist (Environmental Specialist 3)(In-Training)  within the Water Quality Program . Location:  Eastern Region Office in Spokane, WA . Upon hire, you must live within a commutable distance from the duty station. Schedule:  This position is eligible for telework and flexible schedule options. A minimum of one day per week is required in the office. Schedules are dependent upon position needs and are subject to change. Application Timeline:  Apply by October 19, 2026 Applications submitted after the date above may not be reviewed unless additional qualified applicants are needed. Duties This is your opportunity to join a high performing team that’s shaping the future of water quality in the Eastern Washington region. In this role, you’ll partner with facility owners and operators as they navigate the permitting process. You’ll build out database tools that keep critical information organized, track important permit records, review submittals to ensure they meet environmental laws and rules, conduct occasional inspections, and help coordinate responses to environmental incidents reported by the public. As you grow in this work, you’ll gain hands-on experience that prepares you to advance your career in environmental permitting, compliance, and inspection. If you're excited about protecting Washington’s waters and supporting responsible facility operations, this is a role where you can truly make an impact. What you will do:  Implement and manage water quality permits. Provide technical assistance to facilities to improve compliance. Conduct inspections and respond to complaints. Manage the permit application acceptance process. Develop database tables for facilities to report required discharge monitoring results. Draft documents for compliance and enforcement efforts. Manage the regional program’s Environmental Incident response and reporting. Qualifications This position offers an in-training plan and may be filled at the Environmental Specialist 2 or 3 level, depending on your qualifications. If you qualify at the ES2 level and are hired, you will progress through an in-training plan to become an ES3 within a specified time period.   For detailed information on how we calculate experience and responses to other frequently asked questions, please visit our Recruitment website . Required Qualifications: At the Environmental Specialist 2 level (In-Training) Pay Range 47, $4,300 - $5,779 monthly Five (5) years of experience and/or education related to the duties of the position, which must include the following: Permit and Compliance Management –  Ability to understand and apply environmental requirements to review applications, make permitting decisions, and ensure facilities meet regulatory obligations. Inspection and Incident Evaluation –  Ability to assess sites and environmental incidents to identify problems, document conditions, and determine the appropriate follow-up actions. Enforcement Documentation and Case Support – Ability to prepare clear, accurate enforcement materials and records to support fair and defensible compliance actions. Data and Information Management – Ability to set up, manage, and maintain data systems to ensure information used for compliance, reporting, and decision-making is accurate and reliable. Technical and Scientific Analysis – Ability to review technical documents, interpret environmental data, and evaluate potential impacts to support sound regulatory decisions. Communication and Collaboration – Ability to explain technical information clearly and work effectively with facilities, colleagues, and partner agencies to support compliance and coordinated work. Education involving a major study in an environmental, physical, or one of the natural sciences; environmental or natural science interdisciplinary studies; environmental planning; or an academic discipline related to the duties of the of the position. Examples of how to qualify: 5 years of experience. 4 years of experience AND 30-59 semester or 45-89 quarter college credits. 3 years of experience AND 60-89 semester or 90-134 quarter college credits (Associate’s degree). 2 years of experience AND 90-119 semester or 135-179 quarter college credits. 1 year of experience AND a Bachelor’s degree. Master’s degree or higher.   At the Environmental Specialist 3 level (Goal Class) Pay Range 53, $4,980 - $6,708 monthly Six (6) years of experience and/or education related to the duties of the position, which must include the following: Permit and Compliance Management –  Ability to understand and apply environmental requirements to review applications, make permitting decisions, and ensure facilities meet regulatory obligations. Inspection and Incident Evaluation –  Ability to assess sites and environmental incidents to identify problems, document conditions, and determine the appropriate follow-up actions. Enforcement Documentation and Case Support – Ability to prepare clear, accurate enforcement materials and records to support fair and defensible compliance actions. Data and Information Management – Ability to set up, manage, and maintain data systems to ensure information used for compliance, reporting, and decision-making is accurate and reliable. Technical and Scientific Analysis – Ability to review technical documents, interpret environmental data, and evaluate potential impacts to support sound regulatory decisions. Communication and Collaboration – Ability to explain technical information clearly and work effectively with facilities, colleagues, and partner agencies to support compliance and coordinated work. Education involving a major study in an environmental, physical, or one of the natural sciences; environmental or natural science interdisciplinary studies; environmental planning; or an academic discipline related to the duties of the of the position. Examples of how to qualify: 6 years of experience. 5 years of experience AND 30-59 semester or 45-89 quarter college credits. 4 years of experience AND 60-89 semester or 90-134 quarter college credits (Associate’s degree). 3 years of experience AND 90-119 semester or 135-179 quarter college credits. 2 years of experience AND a Bachelor’s degree. Master’s degree or higher. Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment:  Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license or provide alternate reliable transportation for travel within the state of Washington. Regular travel is required between Ecology headquarters, regional offices, and assigned inspection sites/facilities. Desired Qualifications: Experience with environmental regulations. Experience with customer service. Experience in preparation of professional documents and data management. If you are excited about this role and meet the required qualifications, we encourage you to apply. Desired qualifications reflect additional knowledge, skills, or experience that are nice to have but not required. Studies have shown that some applicants, especially women and people of color, are less likely to apply unless they meet every listed qualification. At the Department of Ecology, we are dedicated to building a diverse and authentic workplace centered in belonging, and we welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and unique perspectives. Supplemental Information Ecology does not use the E-Verify system; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov . Our Commitment to DEIR Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Respect (DEIR)  are core values central to Ecology's work. We strive to be a workplace where we are esteemed for sharing our authentic identities, while advancing our individual professional goals and collaborating to protect, preserve, and enhance the environment for current and future generations.  Diversity: We celebrate and appreciate diversity; our unique perspectives and abilities enrich us all and lead to innovative approaches and solutions. Equity:  We champion equity, recognizing that each of us need different things to thrive. Inclusion: We intentionally create and hold space so that we all have meaningful opportunities to participate and contribute to Ecology’s work. Respect:  We treat each other with respect and dignity, acknowledging the inherent worth of our diverse perspectives and lived experiences, even in times of uncertainty and disagreement. We believe that DEIR is both a goal and an action. We are on a journey, honoring our shared humanity and taking steps to demonstrate our commitment to a vision where each of us is heard, seen, and valued.  Application Process Ecology seeks diverse applicants: We view diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect through a broad lens including race, ethnicity, class, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, immigration status, military background, language, education, life experience, physical disability, neurodiversity, and intersectional identities. Qualified job seekers from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. How to Apply Click “Apply” at the top of this page. Complete the entire application, including full work history and responses to all supplemental questions, and attach: Cover letter, describing your interest in and qualifications for this position  Resume Because we base our selection on the information you provide, it is in your best interest to complete the application thoroughly. A resume will not substitute for the “work experience” section of the application or vice versa. Applications with blank fields or supplemental question responses with comments such as “see resume” may be considered incomplete.  For detailed application information, please visit our Recruitment website. Application Attestation: By submitting an application, you are affirming that the information contained in your application and on all attachments is complete and truthful. The state may verify this information, and any false or misleading answers may result in rejection of your application or dismissal if employed.   Need an Accommodation? If you need reasonable accommodation during the application and/or screening process, including this job announcement in an alternate format: Please contact us at 360-407-6186 or careers@ecy.wa.gov   If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 711 or 1-800-833-6384. Questions? For specific questions about the position location options, schedule, or duties, please contact Art Jenkins  at Art.Jenkins@ecy.wa.gov If you need assistance applying for this job, are inquiring about the status of your application, would like to request the full position description, or have any other questions, please contact the Recruitment Team at careers@ecy.wa.gov About the Water Quality Program The mission of the Water Quality Program (WQP) is to ensure that all aquatic life, and communities in the watershed, experience cool, clean water to refresh and sustain us in a changing climate. The Program’s Eastern Region Office is in Spokane, Washington and offers flexible work schedules and a dynamic, collaborative group of employees committed to protecting Washington's surface and groundwaters. Spokane is located 92 miles from the Canadian border and is neighbors with Idaho. We are located near mountains and forests with many streams and lakes within a short drive. About the Department of Ecology As the State of Washington’s environmental protection agency, we are deeply committed to protecting, preserving, and enhancing Washington’s environment for current and future generations. Joining Ecology means becoming part of a team dedicated to protecting and sustaining healthy land, air, water, and climate in harmony with a strong economy. A career in public service at Ecology allows you to help solve some of the most challenging problems facing our state, while keeping your health and financial security a priority. We combine one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation with a strong commitment to life/work balance. We invest in our employees to create and sustain a working environment that encourages creative leadership, effective resource management, teamwork, professionalism, and accountability. Ecology employees may be eligible for the following: Medical/Dental/Vision for employee & dependent(s) , Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) , Vacation, Sick, and other Leave *, 11 Paid Holidays per year *, Public Service Loan Forgiveness , Tuition Waiver ,   Long Term Disability & Life Insurance , Deferred Compensation Programs , Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP) ,   Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA) , Employee Assistance Program , Commute Trip Reduction Incentive , Combined Fund Drive , SmartHealth * Click here for more information To learn more about Ecology, please visit our website , explore Working at Ecology , check out our Strategic Plan , and connect with us on LinkedIn , Facebook , Instagram , YouTube , or our blog .  Equal Opportunity Employer: The Washington State Department of Ecology is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, veterans, military spouses or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply. Collective Bargaining: This is a position covered by a bargaining unit for which the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) is the exclusive representative.    Note:  This recruitment may be used to fill other positions of the same job classification across the agency. Once all the position(s) from the recruitment announcement are filled, the recruitment may only be used to fill additional open positions for the next sixty (60) days.

Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen The Department of Ecology is hiring a Network Administrator (IT Network & Telecoms – Journey)   within the Information Technology Services Office (ITSO). Location:  Headquarters Office in Lacey, WA . Upon hire, you must live within a commutable distance from the duty station. Schedule:  This position is eligible for telework and flexible schedule options. You may telework most of your work time with occasional in-person meetings and activities. Schedules are dependent upon position needs and are subject to change.   Application Timeline:  Apply by October 19, 2026 Applications submitted after the date above may not be reviewed unless additional qualified applicants are needed. Ecology does not use the E-Verify system; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) . For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov . Duties In this role, you'll serve as an advocate and technical resource for the agency's on-prem and Public Cloud networking infrastructure. You'll combine hands-on network engineering with project management to plan, implement, operate, and maintain the converged and integrated network services that keep Ecology's applications and staff connected across the state, directly supporting our work to protect Washington's air, water, and land. This is a journey-level position (one level below Senior). You'll work with a high degree of independence on complex on-prem and network infrastructure while collaborating closely with senior technical staff, ITSO's IT Security team, Washington Technology Solutions (WaTech), and external vendors. What you will do:  Provide primary network engineering support for Ecology’s on-prem and cloud infrastructure by installing, configuring, and maintaining Layer 2/3 components, gateways, and firewalls, and coordinating work with internal teams and external partners. Monitor LAN/WAN performance and operational health across all agency sites, identifying anomalies, bandwidth issues, outages, and security-related events and ensuring timely follow-up with ISPs and the IT Security team. Deliver Tier 2 and Tier 3 support statewide, resolving complex wired and wireless networking issues, authentication failures, and WAN disruptions, and conducting root cause analysis to prevent recurrence. Perform routine maintenance to keep network infrastructure secure and optimized, including software updates, patching, password rotations, certificate management, and compliance with ITSO/State standards. Maintain accurate and current network documentation, including IP address assignments, topology diagrams, configuration guides, and full inventory records for network hardware. Provide technical consultation on network design and implementation, serving as a subject matter expert for planning, guiding technology choices, and mentoring support staff. Build vendor relationships and research emerging on-prem and cloud networking technologies to recommend solutions that support business needs and maintain high reliability. Lead and support project planning and implementation by analyzing dependencies, designing work plans, strengthening network security, and coordinating timelines across service delivery teams. Qualifications For detailed information on how we calculate experience and responses to other frequently asked questions, please visit our Recruitment website . Required Qualifications: Five years of experience and/or education related to the duties of the position, which includes the following: Project Coordination – Ability to plan and organize tasks and timelines to support the successful delivery of network-related projects. Documentation Management  – Ability to keep accurate and up-to-date network records, diagrams, and instructions to support troubleshooting and compliance. Network Engineering & Troubleshooting – Ability to install, configure, maintain, and repair network equipment and connections to ensure reliable, secure communication across the agency. Infrastructure Maintenance & Optimization – Ability to update software and equipment, manage certificates and configurations, and keep systems current to reduce downtime and security risk. Network Design & Evaluation – Ability to assess business needs, evaluate options, and recommend network designs that balance cost, resiliency, security, and performance. Documentation Management  – Ability to keep accurate and up-to-date network records, diagrams, and instructions to support troubleshooting and compliance. Education  involving a major study in IT, Computer Science, or closely related field. Examples of how to qualify: 5 years of experience. 4 years of experience AND 30-59 semester or 45-89 quarter college credits. 3 years of experience AND 60-89 semester or 90-134 quarter college credits (Associate’s degree). 2 years of experience AND 90-119 semester or 135-179 quarter college credits. 1 year of experience AND a Bachelor’s degree. Desired Qualifications: A Bachelor’s degree with focus on computer science, or Network hardware or architecture. Four years of information technology experience designing and maintaining Cisco wireless controllers, Cisco Core Infrastructure, Cisco Prime Infrastructure, ISE (Identity Service Engine), and Data Center experience. Proficient with Cisco iOS and working knowledge of routing protocols and services required to support wired/wireless network infrastructure. If you are excited about this role and meet the required qualifications, we encourage you to apply. Desired qualifications reflect additional knowledge, skills, or experience that are nice to have but not required. Studies have shown that some applicants, especially women and people of color, are less likely to apply unless they meet every listed qualification. At the Department of Ecology, we are dedicated to building a diverse and authentic workplace centered in belonging, and we welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and unique perspectives. Supplemental Information Ecology does not use the E-Verify system; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov . Application Process Ecology seeks diverse applicants: We view diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect through a broad lens including race, ethnicity, class, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, immigration status, military background, language, education, life experience, physical disability, neurodiversity, and intersectional identities. Qualified job seekers from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. How to Apply Click “Apply” at the top of this page. Complete the entire application, including full work history and responses to all supplemental questions, and attach: Cover letter, describing your interest in and qualifications for this position  Resume Because we base our selection on the information you provide, it is in your best interest to complete the application thoroughly. A resume will not substitute for the “work experience” section of the application or vice versa. Applications with blank fields or supplemental question responses with comments such as “see resume” may be considered incomplete.  For detailed application information, please visit our Recruitment website. Application Attestation: By submitting an application, you are affirming that the information contained in your application and on all attachments is complete and truthful. The state may verify this information, and any false or misleading answers may result in rejection of your application or dismissal if employed.   Need an Accommodation? If you need reasonable accommodation during the application and/or screening process, including this job announcement in an alternate format: Please contact us at 360-407-6186 or careers@ecy.wa.gov   If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 711 or 1-800-833-6384. Questions? For specific questions about the position location options, schedule, or duties, please contact Senthil Masilamani at Senthil.Masilamani@ecy.wa.gov   If you need assistance applying for this job, are inquiring about the status of your application, would like to request the full position description, or have any other questions, please contact the Recruitment Team at careers@ecy.wa.gov About the Department of Ecology As the State of Washington’s environmental protection agency, we are deeply committed to protecting, preserving, and enhancing Washington’s environment for current and future generations. Joining Ecology means becoming part of a team dedicated to protecting and sustaining healthy land, air, water, and climate in harmony with a strong economy. A career in public service at Ecology allows you to help solve some of the most challenging problems facing our state, while keeping your health and financial security a priority. We combine one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation with a strong commitment to life/work balance. We invest in our employees to create and sustain a working environment that encourages creative leadership, effective resource management, teamwork, professionalism, and accountability. Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Respect (DEIR)  are core values central to Ecology's work. We strive to be a workplace where we are esteemed for sharing our authentic identities, while advancing our individual professional goals and collaborating to protect, preserve, and enhance the environment for current and future generations.  We believe that DEIR is both a goal and an action. We are on a journey, honoring our shared humanity and taking steps to demonstrate our commitment to a vision where each of us is heard, seen, and valued.  Ecology employees may be eligible for the following: Medical/Dental/Vision for employee & dependent(s) , Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) , Vacation, Sick, and other Leave *, 11 Paid Holidays per year *, Public Service Loan Forgiveness , Tuition Waiver ,   Long Term Disability & Life Insurance , Deferred Compensation Programs , Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP) ,   Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA) , Employee Assistance Program , Commute Trip Reduction Incentive , Combined Fund Drive , SmartHealth * Click here for more information To learn more about Ecology, please visit our website , explore Working at Ecology , check out our Strategic Plan , and connect with us on LinkedIn , Facebook , Instagram , YouTube , or our blog .  Equal Opportunity Employer: The Washington State Department of Ecology is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, veterans, military spouses or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply. Collective Bargaining: This is a position covered by a bargaining unit for which the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) is the exclusive representative.    Note:  This recruitment may be used to fill other positions of the same job classification across the agency. Once all the position(s) from the recruitment announcement are filled, the recruitment may only be used to fill additional open positions for the next sixty (60) days.

Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen The Department of Ecology is hiring a Session Aide - Legislative & Policy Specialist (Environmental Planner 1) within the Climate Pollution Reduction Program. Note:  This is a temporary position that will end six months from your start date in this role. This position has the potential to be converted to a permanent position depending on funding. Location:  Headquarters Office in Lacey, WA . Upon hire, you must live within a commutable distance from the duty station. Schedule:  This position may be eligible for telework. A minimum of one day per week is required in the office. This position is expected to be in the office for a full workday every Tuesday. More may be required, based on business needs. Schedules are dependent upon position needs and are subject to change. Application Timeline: Apply by 11:59pm on Sunday, October 18, 2026. Applications submitted after the date above may not be reviewed unless additional qualified applicants are needed. Duties Do you have an interest in environmental policy? Would you like to help champion climate policy and contribute to moving it through the Washington State legislative process? If so, we hope you'll join our team! As the Session Aide – Legislative & Policy Specialist with the Climate Pollution Reduction Program (CPRP), you will support the fast-paced work of the legislative session by coordinating internal bill-tracking activities, managing legislative workflows, conducting policy research, and preparing high-quality materials that inform decision-makers. Working closely with the Senior Legislative Planner, subject matter experts, agency leadership, Governmental Relations, Budget, and legal staff, you will play a key role in ensuring CPRP’s legislative work is accurate, timely, and aligned with program and agency priorities. Key responsibilities include: Tracking legislation, coordinating internal bill analysis workflows in the agency’s legislative tracking platform, and providing technical assistance to staff as needed. Conducting legislative research and preparing summaries, analysis, and draft materials such as bill analyses, fiscal notes, testimony, letters, and presentations. Preparing program staff for legislative meetings, hearings, and work sessions; taking notes and tracking follow-up items. Coordinating with CPRP and Attorney General staff, Governmental Relations, and Budget on bill analyses, fiscal notes, and hearing outcomes. Assisting with the development of implementation plans for recently passed legislation and planning for legislative reports. Supporting scheduling, agenda development, and preparation of materials for internal and external legislative meetings. Qualifications For detailed information on how we calculate experience and responses to other frequently asked questions, please visit our Recruitment website . Required Qualifications: Six years of experience and/or education related to the duties of the position, which must include the following: Communication Skills – Ability to communicate clearly and promptly in writing and verbally to produce accurate, concise, and well-organized legislative materials and updates to support effective program decision-making. Attention to Detail  – Demonstrated competence with reviewing and editing bill analyses, correspondence, and meeting materials to ensure clarity, accuracy, consistency, and completeness. Legislative Analysis & Research – Ability to research, analyze, and summarize legislation, policies, and related information to support development of bill analyses, fiscal notes, and program implementation planning. Coordination & Information Sharing – Skilled with gathering, organizing, and communicating legislative information to ensure program staff are aware of key hearings, bill progress, follow-up needs, and session priorities. Meeting & Hearing Support – Ability to prepare agendas, materials, and notes for meetings, hearings, and work sessions to support timely responses and effective participation by program staff and managers. Office Software – Experienced in using Microsoft Office applications. Experience must include at least 60 days working for or with a legislative body. Education  involving a major study in land use, urban, regional, environmental, or natural resource planning, landscape architecture, geography, land use or environmental law, public administration with an environmental emphasis, or closely related field. Examples of how to qualify: 6 years of experience. 5 years of experience AND 30-59 semester or 45-89 quarter college credits. 4 years of experience AND 60-89 semester or 90-134 quarter college credits (Associate’s degree). 3 years of experience AND 90-119 semester or 135-179 quarter college credits. 2 years of experience AND a Bachelor’s degree. A Master’s degree or above Desired Qualifications: Legislative & Governmental Understanding  – Ability to understand and apply Washington State legislative processes and governmental administrative structures to support clear, accurate legislative tracking, analysis, and coordination. Legislative Tracking Systems  – Ability to use legislative tracking tools to enter, track, update, and share bill analyses and legislative documents to maintain accurate and accessible session records. Environmental, Climate, and Transportation Policy Awareness  – Ability to work with environmental laws, climate policies, transportation policy, transportation fuels, zero-emission vehicle topics, and tools and principles of environmental justice to support meaningful legislative research and document development. Communication & Presentation Skills  – Skilled with preparing presentations, talking points, and written materials to convey complex policy, fiscal, or regulatory information clearly, accurately, and effectively. Customer & Constituent Support  – Experienced in responding to questions and requests to provide clear, accurate information and support positive interactions through well-crafted responses and support documents.  Research & Analytical Skills  – Ability to conduct policy or regulatory research, interpret complex directives and regulations, and compile well-organized written reports to support legislative planning and program decision-making. Collaboration & Problem-Solving  – Skilled with working collaboratively, following directions, thinking conceptually, and contributing If you are excited about this role and meet the required qualifications, we encourage you to apply. Desired qualifications reflect additional knowledge, skills, or experience that are nice to have but not required. Studies have shown that some applicants, especially women and people of color, are less likely to apply unless they meet every listed qualification. At the Department of Ecology, we are dedicated to building a diverse and authentic workplace centered in belonging, and we welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and unique perspectives. Supplemental Information Ecology does not use the E-Verify system; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov . Our Commitment to DEIR Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Respect (DEIR)  are core values central to Ecology's work. We strive to be a workplace where we are esteemed for sharing our authentic identities, while advancing our individual professional goals and collaborating to protect, preserve, and enhance the environment for current and future generations.  Diversity: We celebrate and appreciate diversity; our unique perspectives and abilities enrich us all and lead to innovative approaches and solutions. Equity:  We champion equity, recognizing that each of us need different things to thrive. Inclusion: We intentionally create and hold space so that we all have meaningful opportunities to participate and contribute to Ecology’s work. Respect:  We treat each other with respect and dignity, acknowledging the inherent worth of our diverse perspectives and lived experiences, even in times of uncertainty and disagreement. We believe that DEIR is both a goal and an action. We are on a journey, honoring our shared humanity and taking steps to demonstrate our commitment to a vision where each of us is heard, seen, and valued.  Application Process Ecology seeks diverse applicants: We view diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect through a broad lens including race, ethnicity, class, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, immigration status, military background, language, education, life experience, physical disability, neurodiversity, and intersectional identities. Qualified job seekers from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. How to Apply Click “Apply” at the top of this page. Complete the entire application, including full work history and responses to all supplemental questions, and attach the following required documents : Cover letter, describing your interest in and qualifications for this position  Resume Because we base our selection on the information you provide, it is in your best interest to complete the application thoroughly. A resume will not substitute for the “work experience” section of the application or vice versa. Applications with blank fields or supplemental question responses with comments such as “see resume” may be considered incomplete.  For detailed application information, please visit our Recruitment website. Application Attestation: By submitting an application, you are affirming that the information contained in your application and on all attachments is complete and truthful. The state may verify this information, and any false or misleading answers may result in rejection of your application or dismissal if employed.   Need an Accommodation? If you need reasonable accommodation during the application and/or screening process, including this job announcement in an alternate format: Please contact us at 360-407-6186 or careers@ecy.wa.gov   If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 711 or 1-800-833-6384. Questions? For specific questions about the position location options, schedule, or duties, please contact Tamara Jones  at Tamara.Jones@ecy.wa.gov .  If you need assistance applying for this job, are inquiring about the status of your application, would like to request the full position description, or have any other questions, please contact the Recruitment Team at careers@ecy.wa.gov About the Climate Pollution Reduction Program The Climate Pollution Reduction Program's (CPRP) mission is to guide Washington to a net zero future by 2050. We implement policies that encourage businesses and individuals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and build a clean energy economy. CPRP focuses long-term, requiring creative and strategic decision-making for implementation to achieve broad statewide and interstate success reducing carbon emissions in the state of Washington so residents have a healthy environment and climate. About the Department of Ecology As the State of Washington’s environmental protection agency, we are deeply committed to protecting, preserving, and enhancing Washington’s environment for current and future generations. Joining Ecology means becoming part of a team dedicated to protecting and sustaining healthy land, air, water, and climate in harmony with a strong economy. A career in public service at Ecology allows you to help solve some of the most challenging problems facing our state, while keeping your health and financial security a priority. We combine one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation with a strong commitment to life/work balance. We invest in our employees to create and sustain a working environment that encourages creative leadership, effective resource management, teamwork, professionalism, and accountability. Ecology employees may be eligible for the following: Medical/Dental/Vision for employee & dependent(s) , Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) , Vacation, Sick, and other Leave *, 11 Paid Holidays per year *, Public Service Loan Forgiveness , Tuition Waiver ,   Long Term Disability & Life Insurance , Deferred Compensation Programs , Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP) ,   Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA) , Employee Assistance Program , Commute Trip Reduction Incentive , Combined Fund Drive , SmartHealth * Click here for more information To learn more about Ecology, please visit our website , explore Working at Ecology , check out our Strategic Plan , and connect with us on LinkedIn , Facebook , Instagram , YouTube , or our blog .  Equal Opportunity Employer: The Washington State Department of Ecology is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, veterans, military spouses or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply. Collective Bargaining: This is a position covered by a bargaining unit for which the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) is the exclusive representative.    Note:  This recruitment may be used to fill other positions of the same job classification across the agency. Once all the position(s) from the recruitment announcement are filled, the recruitment may only be used to fill additional open positions for the next sixty (60) days.

Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen The Department of Ecology is hiring a Puget Sound Nutrients Project and Financial Specialist (Environmental Specialist 3)  within the  Water Quality Program . This is a project position that is funded until  December 31, 2029 . This funding is highly likely to be renewed for the next bi-annual budget cycle. Location:  Headquarters Office in Lacey, WA . Upon hire, you must live within a commutable distance from the duty station. Schedule:  This position is eligible for telework and flexible schedule options. You may telework most of your work time with occasional in-person meetings and activities. Schedules are dependent upon position needs and are subject to change. Application Timeline: Apply by October 15, 2026 Applications submitted after the date above may not be reviewed unless additional qualified applicants are needed. Duties As the Puget Sound Nutrients Project and Financial Specialist, you will play a key role in protecting the health of Washington’s waters by supporting projects that reduce nutrient pollution and improve wastewater infrastructure across the Puget Sound region. In this multi-faceted position, you’ll engage with local partners to provide technical and financial assistance to applicants and recipients of Puget Sound Nutrient Reduction grants, as well as Clean Water State Revolving fund grants and loans for regional wastewater projects. You’ll work with Ecology engineers and permit managers, monitor project performance, conduct site visits, and assist with programmatic planning related to Puget Sound Nutrient Reduction grants. This role provides the opportunity to build expertise in environmental project financing, grant and loan management, and wastewater program implementation. You’ll contribute to meaningful, long-term environmental outcomes while gaining experience in project oversight, funding agreement development, and program accountability, helping shape the future of water quality in the Puget Sound region.   What you will do: Develop grant and loan agreements and amendments in collaboration with Ecology engineers, permit managers, and funding recipients. Conduct quality assurance reviews of negotiated project scopes of work, budgets, and special conditions to ensure grant integrity, cost eligibility, and consistency with state and federal statues and rules, Water Quality Program funding policies and procedures, and grant guidelines. Schedule and conduct site visits to monitor project progress. Work closely with other Water Quality Program grant and loan managers and wastewater treatment facility engineers to support effective and efficient management of Puget Sound Nutrient Reduction and Clean Water State Revolving Fund resources. Provide financial assistance recommendations related to the development, coordination, and implementation of water quality best management practices for pollution prevention and control. Assist with planning, facilitating, or representing the program in public meetings and workshops. Qualifications For detailed information on how we calculate experience and responses to other frequently asked questions, please visit our Recruitment website . Required Qualifications: Six (6) years of experience and/or education related to the duties of the position, which must include the following: Financial Oversight – Ability to review and monitor financial transactions, payment requests, and project budgets to ensure funds are used appropriately and projects stay financially compliant. Regulatory and Policy Application – Ability to interpret and apply laws, policies, and program guidelines to ensure projects meet all required standards and conditions. Grant and Contract Coordination  – Ability to manage and coordinate grant and loan activities from application through closeout to support timely, compliant, and successful project delivery. Technical Support  – Ability to understand and explain basic technical concepts to help recipients make informed decisions and meet project requirements. Project Monitoring and Problem Solving  – Ability to track project progress, identify issues early, and recommend practical solutions to keep projects on schedule and in compliance. Collaboration, Training, and Outreach – Ability to work effectively with internal teams and external partners and deliver clear guidance and training to improve understanding and support project success. Education  involving a major study in environmental, physical, or one of the natural sciences; environmental or natural science interdisciplinary studies; environmental planning, or closely related field. Examples of how to qualify: 6 years of experience. 5 years of experience AND 30-59 semester or 45-89 quarter college credits. 4 years of experience AND 60-89 semester or 90-134 quarter college credits (Associate’s degree). 3 years of experience AND 90-119 semester or 135-179 quarter college credits. 2 years of experience AND a Bachelor’s degree. A Master’s degree or higher. Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment: Driver’s license / Travel Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license or provide alternate reliable transportation for travel within the state of Washington. Regular travel is required between Ecology headquarters, regional offices, partner agency locations, and assigned inspection sites/facilities. Desired Qualifications: Experience working with city or county governments. Experience with developing or managing data tracking systems. If you are excited about this role and meet the required qualifications, we encourage you to apply. Desired qualifications reflect additional knowledge, skills, or experience that are nice to have but not required. Studies have shown that some applicants, especially women and people of color, are less likely to apply unless they meet every listed qualification. At the Department of Ecology, we are dedicated to building a diverse and authentic workplace centered in belonging, and we welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and unique perspectives. Supplemental Information Ecology does not use the E-Verify system; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov . Our Commitment to DEIR Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Respect (DEIR)  are core values central to Ecology's work. We strive to be a workplace where we are esteemed for sharing our authentic identities, while advancing our individual professional goals and collaborating to protect, preserve, and enhance the environment for current and future generations.  Diversity: We celebrate and appreciate diversity; our unique perspectives and abilities enrich us all and lead to innovative approaches and solutions. Equity:  We champion equity, recognizing that each of us need different things to thrive. Inclusion: We intentionally create and hold space so that we all have meaningful opportunities to participate and contribute to Ecology’s work. Respect:  We treat each other with respect and dignity, acknowledging the inherent worth of our diverse perspectives and lived experiences, even in times of uncertainty and disagreement. We believe that DEIR is both a goal and an action. We are on a journey, honoring our shared humanity and taking steps to demonstrate our commitment to a vision where each of us is heard, seen, and valued.  Application Process Ecology seeks diverse applicants: We view diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect through a broad lens including race, ethnicity, class, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, immigration status, military background, language, education, life experience, physical disability, neurodiversity, and intersectional identities. Qualified job seekers from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. How to Apply Click “Apply” at the top of this page. Complete the entire application, including full work history and responses to all supplemental questions, and attach: Cover letter, describing your interest in and qualifications for this position  Resume Because we base our selection on the information you provide, it is in your best interest to complete the application thoroughly. A resume will not substitute for the “work experience” section of the application or vice versa. Applications with blank fields or supplemental question responses with comments such as “see resume” may be considered incomplete.  For detailed application information, please visit our Recruitment website. Application Attestation: By submitting an application, you are affirming that the information contained in your application and on all attachments is complete and truthful. The state may verify this information, and any false or misleading answers may result in rejection of your application or dismissal if employed.   Need an Accommodation? If you need reasonable accommodation during the application and/or screening process, including this job announcement in an alternate format: Please contact us at 360-407-6186 and select #2 for Recruitment or email careers@ecy.wa.gov   If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 711 or 1-800-833-6384. Questions? For specific questions about the position location options, schedule, or duties, please contact Seth Elsen at Seth.Elsen@ecy.wa.gov   If you need assistance applying for this job, are inquiring about the status of your application, would like to request the full position description, or have any other questions, please contact the Recruitment Team at careers@ecy.wa.gov About the Water Quality Program The Water Quality Program’s Financial Management Section oversees an active portfolio of more than $1 billion in projects related to water quality and public health protection. This position is housed within the Wastewater Financial and Technical Assistance Unit, which administers wastewater funding and provides robust technical assistance for Tribes and small communities to solve wastewater needs big and small. About the Department of Ecology As the State of Washington’s environmental protection agency, we are deeply committed to protecting, preserving, and enhancing Washington’s environment for current and future generations. Joining Ecology means becoming part of a team dedicated to protecting and sustaining healthy land, air, water, and climate in harmony with a strong economy. A career in public service at Ecology allows you to help solve some of the most challenging problems facing our state, while keeping your health and financial security a priority. We combine one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation with a strong commitment to life/work balance. We invest in our employees to create and sustain a working environment that encourages creative leadership, effective resource management, teamwork, professionalism, and accountability. Ecology employees may be eligible for the following: Medical/Dental/Vision for employee & dependent(s) , Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) , Vacation, Sick, and other Leave *, 11 Paid Holidays per year *, Public Service Loan Forgiveness , Tuition Waiver ,   Long Term Disability & Life Insurance , Deferred Compensation Programs , Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP) ,   Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA) , Employee Assistance Program , Commute Trip Reduction Incentive , Combined Fund Drive , SmartHealth * Click here for more information To learn more about Ecology, please visit our website , explore Working at Ecology , check out our Strategic Plan , and connect with us on LinkedIn , Facebook , Instagram , YouTube , or our blog .  Equal Opportunity Employer: The Washington State Department of Ecology is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, veterans, military spouses or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply. Collective Bargaining: This is a position covered by a bargaining unit for which the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) is the exclusive representative.    Note:  This recruitment may be used to fill other positions of the same job classification across the agency. Once all the position(s) from the recruitment announcement are filled, the recruitment may only be used to fill additional open positions for the next sixty (60) days.

Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen The Department of Ecology is hiring an Oil Spill Drill Specialist (Environmental Planner 3)   within the  Spill Prevention, Preparedness, and Response Program . Location Options: This position can be based at any of the following duty stations: Headquarters Office in Lacey, WA . Northwest Region Office in Shoreline, WA . Upon hire, you must live within a commutable distance from the selected duty station. Note: If the selected duty station is the Northwest Region Office in Shoreline, the salary will include an additional 5% premium pay due to its location in King County. Salary range: $6,067 - $8,162 monthly. Schedule:  This position is eligible for telework and flexible schedule options. A minimum of one day per week is required in the office. Schedules are dependent upon position needs and are subject to change. Application Timeline:  Apply by October 18, 2026 Applications submitted after the date above may not be reviewed unless additional qualified applicants are needed. Duties In this role, you will manage multiple oil spill drills at different stages of completion while ensuring each one meets detailed regulatory expectations. You will interpret complex requirements, develop realistic and effective drill scenarios, and evaluate performance with consistency and fairness. You will also balance simultaneous deadlines, coordinate with many organizations, and ensure accurate documentation, all of which require strong organization and sustained focus. You also review drill evaluation reports prepared by others, which means you must pay close attention to detail, use sound judgment, and maintain high quality across a significant amount of information. In this position, you shape Washington’s oil spill readiness by designing and evaluating drills that directly influence preparedness and environmental protection. You will work closely with operators of facilities, pipelines, railroads, vessels, and specialized response contractors, giving you an inside view into the broader response community. Each drill you design or evaluate brings new scenarios, technologies, and problem-solving opportunities, keeping your work dynamic and intellectually engaging. You will also support real-world spill responses through your participation on the Incident Management Team and involvement in spill events, connecting your preparedness work to real outcomes on the ground. What you will do:  Design, coordinate, and manage multiple oil spill drills to verify the effectiveness of contingency plans.  Establish drill objectives, scope, scenarios, and evaluation criteria that meet regulatory requirements.  Evaluate drill performance objectively and document findings, trends, and lessons learned.  Conduct final reviews of drill evaluations to ensure accuracy, clarity, quality, and consistent data entry.  Facilitate meetings with regulated industry, contractors, and other involved groups, providing technical guidance throughout the drill design process.  Provide administrative support to the Unit Supervisor, including drill data reporting, quality assurance, and development of team resources.  Participate in spill response activities as part of the Incident Management Team and through the Preparedness Pager Duty roster.  Track, schedule, and ensure completion of all required drills and design meetings within annual and triennial cycles. Qualifications For detailed information on how we calculate experience and responses to other frequently asked questions, please visit our Recruitment website . Required Qualifications: 8 years  of experience and/or education related to the duties of the position, which includes the following: Communication – Ability to clearly share information to support effective collaboration. Ability to work respectfully with others and maintain professionalism to support a productive work environment. Critical Thinking and Judgment  – Ability to assess information and apply sound judgment to make effective decisions and solve problems. Time and Task Management – Ability to organize and prioritize work to manage multiple responsibilities and meet deadlines. Documentation  – Ability to document work and maintain accurate records. Project and Activity Coordination – Ability to plan, organize, and guide work activities to ensure tasks and required events are completed on schedule. Evaluation and Quality Review – Ability to objectively review processes, activities, and documents to ensure accuracy, clarity, and effectiveness. Facilitation and Interested Party Engagement – Ability to lead discussions with internal and external partners to share information, resolve issues, and support program goals. Data and Information Management – Ability to use databases and tracking systems to maintain accurate records and support reporting needs. Field Operations – Ability to safely work in field environments (including but not limited to oil handling facilities, vessels, and near spill sites) and use personal protective equipment. Education : Involving a major study in environmental science, law, or policy; geography; public administration with an environmental emphasis; emergency management; or closely related field.  Examples of how to qualify: 8 years of experience. 7 years of experience AND 30-59 semester or 45-89 quarter college credits. 6 years of experience AND 60-89 semester or 90-134 quarter college credits (Associate’s degree). 5 years of experience AND 90-119 semester or 135-179 quarter college credits. 4 years of experience AND a Bachelor’s degree. 2 years of experience AND a Master’s degree. 1 years of experience AND a Ph.D. Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment:  This position is part of the Spills Program Incident Management Team (IMT) and Crisis Management Team and is required to complete and maintain continual training as required by the Program for IMT position qualifications. This training will be provided after employment begins. 40-hour HAZWOPER certification and annual 8-hour refresher. This training will be provided after employment begins. Must be able to obtain and maintain a  Transportation Worker Identification Credential  (TWIC). This can be obtained after employment begins at no cost to the employee. Hold and maintain eligibility and certification to permit travel to and from Canada, including passport or Enhanced Driver’s License.  Desired Qualifications: Incident Command System ( ICS) 100, 200, 700 and 800 certifications. Free on-line ICS training and certification is available at: ICS 100: https://training.fema.gov/is/courseoverview.aspx?code=IS-100.c ICS 200: https://training.fema.gov/is/courseoverview.aspx?code=IS-200.c ICS 700: https://training.fema.gov/is/courseoverview.aspx?code=IS-700.b ICS 800: https://training.fema.gov/is/courseoverview.aspx?code=IS-800.c Oil Spill Drill Design and Evaluation Oil Spill Planning and Preparedness If you are excited about this role and meet the required qualifications, we encourage you to apply. Desired qualifications reflect additional knowledge, skills, or experience that are nice to have but not required. Studies have shown that some applicants, especially women and people of color, are less likely to apply unless they meet every listed qualification. At the Department of Ecology, we are dedicated to building a diverse and authentic workplace centered in belonging, and we welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and unique perspectives. Supplemental Information Ecology does not use the E-Verify system; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov . Our Commitment to DEIR Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Respect (DEIR)  are core values central to Ecology's work. We strive to be a workplace where we are esteemed for sharing our authentic identities, while advancing our individual professional goals and collaborating to protect, preserve, and enhance the environment for current and future generations.  Diversity: We celebrate and appreciate diversity; our unique perspectives and abilities enrich us all and lead to innovative approaches and solutions. Equity:  We champion equity, recognizing that each of us need different things to thrive. Inclusion: We intentionally create and hold space so that we all have meaningful opportunities to participate and contribute to Ecology’s work. Respect:  We treat each other with respect and dignity, acknowledging the inherent worth of our diverse perspectives and lived experiences, even in times of uncertainty and disagreement. We believe that DEIR is both a goal and an action. We are on a journey, honoring our shared humanity and taking steps to demonstrate our commitment to a vision where each of us is heard, seen, and valued.  Application Process Ecology seeks diverse applicants: We view diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect through a broad lens including race, ethnicity, class, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, immigration status, military background, language, education, life experience, physical disability, neurodiversity, and intersectional identities. Qualified job seekers from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. How to Apply Click “Apply” at the top of this page. Complete the entire application, including full work history and responses to all supplemental questions, and attach: Cover letter, describing your interest in and qualifications for this position  Resume Because we base our selection on the information you provide, it is in your best interest to complete the application thoroughly. A resume will not substitute for the “work experience” section of the application or vice versa. Applications with blank fields or supplemental question responses with comments such as “see resume” may be considered incomplete.  For detailed application information, please visit our Recruitment website. Application Attestation: By submitting an application, you are affirming that the information contained in your application and on all attachments is complete and truthful. The state may verify this information, and any false or misleading answers may result in rejection of your application or dismissal if employed.   Need an Accommodation? If you need reasonable accommodation during the application and/or screening process, including this job announcement in an alternate format: Please contact us at 360-407-6186 and select #2 for Recruitment or email careers@ecy.wa.gov   If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 711 or 1-800-833-6384. Questions? For specific questions about the position location options, schedule, or duties, please contact Matt Bissell at Matt.Bissell@ecy.wa.gov   If you need assistance applying for this job, are inquiring about the status of your application, would like to request the full position description, or have any other questions, please contact the Recruitment Team at careers@ecy.wa.gov About the Spill Prevention, Preparedness, and Response  Program The Spills Program's mission is to protect, preserve, and restore Washington's environment. Our vision is to create a zero spills world. The Spill’s Program’s Preparedness Section works with our regulated and response community to prepare for worst-case scenarios across the state through contingency planning, regional and area planning, drills and exercise, and equipment inspection. By joining the Preparedness Section, you are joining a team of high performing professionals to protect Washington’s environment.  About the Department of Ecology As the State of Washington’s environmental protection agency, we are deeply committed to protecting, preserving, and enhancing Washington’s environment for current and future generations. Joining Ecology means becoming part of a team dedicated to protecting and sustaining healthy land, air, water, and climate in harmony with a strong economy. A career in public service at Ecology allows you to help solve some of the most challenging problems facing our state, while keeping your health and financial security a priority. We combine one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation with a strong commitment to life/work balance. We invest in our employees to create and sustain a working environment that encourages creative leadership, effective resource management, teamwork, professionalism, and accountability. Ecology employees may be eligible for the following: Medical/Dental/Vision for employee & dependent(s) , Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) , Vacation, Sick, and other Leave *, 11 Paid Holidays per year *, Public Service Loan Forgiveness , Tuition Waiver ,   Long Term Disability & Life Insurance , Deferred Compensation Programs , Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP) ,   Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA) , Employee Assistance Program , Commute Trip Reduction Incentive , Combined Fund Drive , SmartHealth * Click here for more information To learn more about Ecology, please visit our website , explore Working at Ecology , check out our Strategic Plan , and connect with us on LinkedIn , Facebook , Instagram , YouTube , or our blog .  Equal Opportunity Employer: The Washington State Department of Ecology is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, veterans, military spouses or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply. Collective Bargaining: This is a position covered by a bargaining unit for which the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) is the exclusive representative.    Note:  This recruitment may be used to fill other positions of the same job classification across the agency. Once all the position(s) from the recruitment announcement are filled, the recruitment may only be used to fill additional open positions for the next sixty (60) days.

Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen The Department of Ecology is hiring an IT App Development – Senior/Specialist within  the  Air Quality Program  (AQP) Location:  Headquarters Office in Lacey, WA . Upon hire, you must live within a commutable distance from the duty station. Schedule:  This position is eligible for telework and flexible schedule options. A minimum of one day per week is required in the office. Application Timeline: Apply by October 19, 2026 Applications submitted after the date above may not be reviewed unless additional qualified applicants are needed. Duties As the Information Technology and Telemetry Unit (ITTU) Application Development Senior/Specialist you will provide thoughtful, strategic, and compassionate technical and programming expertise for a highly collaborative 8-person team of IT professionals in the development, implementation, and maintenance of information technology systems critical to the Air Quality Program’s efforts to equitably protect and improve air quality in Washington. The information technology systems developed and maintained by the ITTU support the secure collection, storage, and reporting of vital information on air pollution levels, sources, and emissions as well as information regarding air quality permitting. In this role, you will be responsible for leading and providing the highest level of programming expertise in information technology services to the Air Quality Program (AQP) by developing applications and systems used by AQP staff and the regulated public. You will provide independent, expert, professional-level IT services to the program and agency. You will also be responsible for leading the application development efforts and developing architecture plans to implement the IT programs and systems for the AQP. Do you enjoy working in a fast-paced, highly collaborative environment full of supportive colleagues all with a common goal? If so, this may be the perfect job for you. Our IT & Telemetry Unit Application Development Senior will work with a team of eight IT professionals as they develop information technology solutions to help the Air Quality Program equitably protect and improve air quality in Washington. We are an Agile/Scrum team and have an unbroken record of successfully completing IT projects in scope, on time, and within budget for the last 10+ years. This will be the perfect fit for anyone wanting to use their application development and Agile project management expertise in a vital development role on a highly cohesive and successful team! What you will do:  Serve as the highest authority on application/systems development and provide technical and architectural leadership in the area of information systems integration supporting the agency’s information technology initiative of integrating AQP information systems with agency systems to facilitate cross-media solutions. Coordinate IT activities with the Unit Manager and work with other Ecology program’s development teams, Information Technology Services Office (ITSO), and participate and is highly active in agency wide technology initiatives. Serve as the highest-level development authority and provides technical leadership in planning, designing, and implementing highly complex, large- and medium- scale, environmental systems that provide tools to assess air quality in Washington State. Conduct research and assess Information Technology industry direction related to software development methodologies and collaborates with other senior agency application development leads to make recommendations to advance software development best practices within the agency. Conduct business analysis to capture application business requirements as needed when working with BA/PM on team to ensure applications that are developed align with business needs and provide the services that are required. To understand how an organization works, find root causes of problems, and guide smart decisions. Qualifications For detailed information on how we calculate experience and responses to other frequently asked questions, please visit our Recruitment website . Required Qualifications: Seven (7) years of experience and/or education related to the duties of the position, which includes the following: Computer application development and maintenance, analyzing, designing, implementing, maintaining and/or programming software applications. Skills must include: Conflict Resolution – Ability to mediate technical or operational disagreements to maintain positive relationships and keep projects moving forward. Risk Management – Ability to identify and assess technology risks to ensure system designs appropriately balance innovation, reliability, and security. Data Driven Decision Making – Ability to collect, review and interpret data to support transparent decisions about IT projects and resources. Collaborative Planning – Proven capability to work effectively with leaders, technical teams, statewide partners and program staff to support coordinated planning and problem solving. IT Governance – Ability to apply governance frameworks to ensure technology decisions, standards, and investments align with agency priorities and compliance requirements. Prioritization & Sequencing – Ability to analyze competing initiatives and schedule work effectively to ensure resources are focused on the highest-value outcomes. Education: in Computer Science, Information Technology (IT), Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM), or closely related field. Examples of how to qualify: 7 years of experience. 6 years of experience AND 30-59 semester or 45-89 quarter college credits. 5 years of experience AND 60-89 semester or 90-134 quarter college credits (Associate’s degree). 4 years of experience AND 90-119 semester or 135-179 quarter college credits. 3 years of experience AND a Bachelor’s degree or higher. Desired Qualifications: Education - with focus on programming/software engineering. Programming Experience  - computer application development and maintenance. Leadership Experience  - in leading IT professionals or consulting as a technical lead. Database Management  - Professional experience consulting, designing, programming, maintenance and/or support work for moderate risk applications and databases. Familiarity - with Washington’s air quality laws and codes. If you are excited about this role and meet the required qualifications, we encourage you to apply. Desired qualifications reflect additional knowledge, skills, or experience that are nice to have but not required. Studies have shown that some applicants, especially women and people of color, are less likely to apply unless they meet every listed qualification. At the Department of Ecology, we are dedicated to building a diverse and authentic workplace centered in belonging, and we welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and unique perspectives. Supplemental Information Ecology does not use the E-Verify system; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov . Our Commitment to DEIR Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Respect (DEIR)  are core values central to Ecology's work. We strive to be a workplace where we are esteemed for sharing our authentic identities, while advancing our individual professional goals and collaborating to protect, preserve, and enhance the environment for current and future generations.  Diversity: We celebrate and appreciate diversity; our unique perspectives and abilities enrich us all and lead to innovative approaches and solutions. Equity:  We champion equity, recognizing that each of us need different things to thrive. Inclusion: We intentionally create and hold space so that we all have meaningful opportunities to participate and contribute to Ecology’s work. Respect:  We treat each other with respect and dignity, acknowledging the inherent worth of our diverse perspectives and lived experiences, even in times of uncertainty and disagreement. We believe that DEIR is both a goal and an action. We are on a journey, honoring our shared humanity and taking steps to demonstrate our commitment to a vision where each of us is heard, seen, and valued.  Application Process Ecology seeks diverse applicants: We view diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect through a broad lens including race, ethnicity, class, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, immigration status, military background, language, education, life experience, physical disability, neurodiversity, and intersectional identities. Qualified job seekers from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. How to Apply Click “Apply” at the top of this page. Complete the entire application, including full work history and responses to all supplemental questions, and attach: Cover letter, describing your interest in and qualifications for this position  Resume Because we base our selection on the information you provide, it is in your best interest to complete the application thoroughly. A resume will not substitute for the “work experience” section of the application or vice versa. Applications with blank fields or supplemental question responses with comments such as “see resume” may be considered incomplete.  For detailed application information, please visit our Recruitment website. Application Attestation: By submitting an application, you are affirming that the information contained in your application and on all attachments is complete and truthful. The state may verify this information, and any false or misleading answers may result in rejection of your application or dismissal if employed.   Need an Accommodation? If you need reasonable accommodation during the application and/or screening process, including this job announcement in an alternate format: Please contact us at 360-407-6186 and select #2 for Recruitment or email careers@ecy.wa.gov   If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 711 or 1-800-833-6384. Questions? For specific questions about the position location options, schedule, or duties, please contact David Jimenez at David.Jimenez@ecy.wa.gov If you need assistance applying for this job, are inquiring about the status of your application, would like to request the full position description, or have any other questions, please contact the Recruitment Team at careers@ecy.wa.gov About the Air Quality Program Clean air is vital for everyone. We manage smoke, vehicle pollution, industrial emissions, and other pollutants so communities have healthy air to breathe. We do this through permits, regulations, and reporting systems intended to keep air pollution at healthy levels. About the Department of Ecology As the State of Washington’s environmental protection agency, we are deeply committed to protecting, preserving, and enhancing Washington’s environment for current and future generations. Joining Ecology means becoming part of a team dedicated to protecting and sustaining healthy land, air, water, and climate in harmony with a strong economy. A career in public service at Ecology allows you to help solve some of the most challenging problems facing our state, while keeping your health and financial security a priority. We combine one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation with a strong commitment to life/work balance. We invest in our employees to create and sustain a working environment that encourages creative leadership, effective resource management, teamwork, professionalism, and accountability. Ecology employees may be eligible for the following: Medical/Dental/Vision for employee & dependent(s) , Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) , Vacation, Sick, and other Leave *, 11 Paid Holidays per year *, Public Service Loan Forgiveness , Tuition Waiver ,   Long Term Disability & Life Insurance , Deferred Compensation Programs , Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP) ,   Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA) , Employee Assistance Program , Commute Trip Reduction Incentive , Combined Fund Drive , SmartHealth * Click here for more information To learn more about Ecology, please visit our website , explore Working at Ecology , check out our Strategic Plan , and connect with us on LinkedIn , Facebook , Instagram , YouTube , or our blog .  Equal Opportunity Employer: The Washington State Department of Ecology is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, veterans, military spouses or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply. Collective Bargaining: This is a position covered by a bargaining unit for which the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) is the exclusive representative.    Note:  This recruitment may be used to fill other positions of the same job classification across the agency. Once all the position(s) from the recruitment announcement are filled, the recruitment may only be used to fill additional open positions for the next sixty (60) days.

Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen The Department of Ecology is hiring a Permit Developer and Facility Manager (Environmental Specialist 3)  within the Water Quality Program . Location:  Central Region Office in Union Gap, WA . Upon hire, you must live within a commutable distance from the duty station. Schedule:  This position is eligible for telework and flexible schedule options. A minimum of 10% of your work schedule is required in the office.  Schedules are dependent upon position needs and are subject to change. Application Timeline:  Apply by October 22, 2026 Applications submitted after the date above may not be reviewed unless additional qualified applicants are needed. Duties As the Permit Developer and Facility Manager for the Central Regional Office (CRO) Water Quality Industrial Unit, you will be an integral part of a dynamic team of scientists, engineers, and hydrogeologists. With this team, you will collaboratively and independently develop and oversee National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES)/State Waste Discharge (SWD) permits, industrial state waste discharge permits and accompanying fact sheets that control wastewater discharges in a manner protective of Washington’s waters in the Central Region. You will use your knowledge on current and emerging industrial stormwater and wastewater trends and issues for development and compliance of NPDES and SWD permits.  Your work involves close collaboration with the Central Region Office Water Quality Industrial Unit staff, Water Quality staff throughout the state, as well as working with regulated entities and the public to provide regulatory oversight of industrial wastewater discharges. As permit writer and facility manager, you will be in the forefront of emerging trends and technology associated with industrial wastewater treatment and permitting. Permits issued by the Industrial Unit are critical to protecting and maintaining water quality, support growth in our state, and keep our communities healthy and thriving. You will be a key partner in our collective efforts to protect public health, the waterways, and environment in Washington State. What you will do:  Develop draft permits and fact sheets using agency standard templates for internal and external review, solicits and responds to both permitted entity and public comments, and develop final permit for issuance. Works with Water Quality staff throughout the State to ensure Industrial Unit NPDES permit development is in accordance with current Whole Effluent Toxicity testing standards. Serves as Central Region Water Quality Industrial Unit expert on contaminants of emerging concern. Derive permit conditions based on legal and technical requirements for discharges to state waters, including evaluating the complex biological, chemical, and physical properties of the discharge and receiving environment. Perform statistical analyses on data from wastewater monitoring and receiving water. Conduct permit compliance inspections, prepare inspection reports, and communicate findings to facilities. Provide technical assistance to permittees or other affected entities and individuals to achieve permit compliance and water quality goals and objectives. Provide technical assistance to legal counsel with the Attorney General’s Office on appeals of permits or enforcement actions; develop testimony and represent the agency as a witness in court cases or issues under consideration of administrative hearings boards. Qualifications For detailed information on how we calculate experience and responses to other frequently asked questions, please visit our Recruitment website . Required Qualifications: Six (6) years of experience and/or education related to the duties of the position, which must include the following: Regulatory Expertise –  Ability to interpret and apply laws, rules, and policies to ensure decisions and documents are accurate, consistent, and compliant. Permit & Document Development –  Ability to review information and prepare clear, accurate, and defendable regulatory documents to support consistent program decision-making. Analysis & Problem Solving – Ability to evaluate information and data to identify issues and recommend practical, effective actions. Field & Operational Assessment  – Ability to conduct site visits and inspections to observe operations, verify requirements are met, and document findings clearly. Technical Communication – Ability to explain technical and regulatory information in writing and verbally so others understand expectations, decisions, and processes. Collaborative Work –  Ability to work effectively with colleagues, facility representatives, and community partners to support coordinated efforts and shared objectives. Education  involving a major study in environmental, physical, or one of the natural sciences; environmental or natural science interdisciplinary studies; environmental planning, or an academic discipline related to the duties of the position. Examples of how to qualify: 6 years of experience. 5 years of experience AND 30-59 semester or 45-89 quarter college credits. 4 years of experience AND 60-89 semester or 90-134 quarter college credits (Associate’s degree). 3 years of experience AND 90-119 semester or 135-179 quarter college credits. 2 years of experience AND a Bachelor’s degree. No experience AND a Master’s degree or above.  Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment:  Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license or provide alternate reliable transportation for travel within the state of Washington. Regular travel is required between   Ecology headquarters, regional offices, partner agency locations, and assigned inspection sites/facilities within the Central Region. Desired Qualifications: Experience working with environmental legislation and regulations at the federal, state, and local level. Experience with oral and written communication of complex issues and interpreting technical documents for a variety of audiences. Experience or demonstrated familiarity with stormwater and industrial facilities. Supplemental Information Ecology does not use the E-Verify system; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov . Our Commitment to DEIR Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Respect (DEIR)  are core values central to Ecology's work. We strive to be a workplace where we are esteemed for sharing our authentic identities, while advancing our individual professional goals and collaborating to protect, preserve, and enhance the environment for current and future generations.  Diversity: We celebrate and appreciate diversity; our unique perspectives and abilities enrich us all and lead to innovative approaches and solutions. Equity:  We champion equity, recognizing that each of us need different things to thrive. Inclusion: We intentionally create and hold space so that we all have meaningful opportunities to participate and contribute to Ecology’s work. Respect:  We treat each other with respect and dignity, acknowledging the inherent worth of our diverse perspectives and lived experiences, even in times of uncertainty and disagreement. We believe that DEIR is both a goal and an action. We are on a journey, honoring our shared humanity and taking steps to demonstrate our commitment to a vision where each of us is heard, seen, and valued.  Application Process Ecology seeks diverse applicants: We view diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect through a broad lens including race, ethnicity, class, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, immigration status, military background, language, education, life experience, physical disability, neurodiversity, and intersectional identities. Qualified job seekers from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. How to Apply Click “Apply” at the top of this page. Complete the entire application, including full work history and responses to all supplemental questions, and attach: Cover letter, describing your interest in and qualifications for this position  Resume Because we base our selection on the information you provide, it is in your best interest to complete the application thoroughly. A resume will not substitute for the “work experience” section of the application or vice versa. Applications with blank fields or supplemental question responses with comments such as “see resume” may be considered incomplete.  For detailed application information, please visit our Recruitment website. Application Attestation: By submitting an application, you are affirming that the information contained in your application and on all attachments is complete and truthful. The state may verify this information, and any false or misleading answers may result in rejection of your application or dismissal if employed.   Need an Accommodation? If you need reasonable accommodation during the application and/or screening process, including this job announcement in an alternate format: Please contact us at 360-407-6186 or careers@ecy.wa.gov   If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 711 or 1-800-833-6384. Questions? For specific questions about the position location options, schedule, or duties, please contact Andrea Jedel  at Andrea.Jedel@ecy.wa.gov If you need assistance applying for this job, are inquiring about the status of your application, would like to request the full position description, or have any other questions, please contact the Recruitment Team at careers@ecy.wa.gov About the Department of Ecology As the State of Washington’s environmental protection agency, we are deeply committed to protecting, preserving, and enhancing Washington’s environment for current and future generations. Joining Ecology means becoming part of a team dedicated to protecting and sustaining healthy land, air, water, and climate in harmony with a strong economy. A career in public service at Ecology allows you to help solve some of the most challenging problems facing our state, while keeping your health and financial security a priority. We combine one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation with a strong commitment to life/work balance. We invest in our employees to create and sustain a working environment that encourages creative leadership, effective resource management, teamwork, professionalism, and accountability. Ecology employees may be eligible for the following: Medical/Dental/Vision for employee & dependent(s) , Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) , Vacation, Sick, and other Leave *, 11 Paid Holidays per year *, Public Service Loan Forgiveness , Tuition Waiver ,   Long Term Disability & Life Insurance , Deferred Compensation Programs , Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP) ,   Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA) , Employee Assistance Program , Commute Trip Reduction Incentive , Combined Fund Drive , SmartHealth * Click here for more information To learn more about Ecology, please visit our website , explore Working at Ecology , check out our Strategic Plan , and connect with us on LinkedIn , Facebook , Instagram , YouTube , or our blog .  Equal Opportunity Employer: The Washington State Department of Ecology is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, veterans, military spouses or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply. Collective Bargaining: This is a position covered by a bargaining unit for which the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) is the exclusive representative.    Note:  This recruitment may be used to fill other positions of the same job classification across the agency. Once all the position(s) from the recruitment announcement are filled, the recruitment may only be used to fill additional open positions for the next sixty (60) days.

Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen The Department of Ecology is hiring an Industrial Permit Data and Compliance Professional (Environmental Specialist 3)  within the Water Quality Program . Location:  Headquarters Office in Lacey, WA . Upon hire, you must live within a commutable distance from the duty station. Schedule:  This position is eligible for telework and flexible schedule options. A minimum of two days per week is required in the office. Schedules are dependent upon position needs and are subject to change. Application Timeline:  Apply by October 15, 2026 Applications submitted after the date above may not be reviewed unless additional qualified applicants are needed. Employment for this position will begin on December 1, 2026. Earlier start dates cannot be accommodated. Duties In this role, you coordinate all administrative processes that support individual permit management and issuance for the thirteen counties in the southwest region of Washington. You are the central point of contact for the unit, making sure permit actions move smoothly from start to finish. This work calls for strong organization, good judgment in setting priorities, and comfort juggling many moving pieces at once. Success in this position also relies on solid skills with databases, especially Ecology’s PARIS system, along with proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Teams. You will provide technical and administrative support for more than one hundred industrial permits. This includes responding to public inquiries, helping permit writers review draft permits, and confirming that proposed limits are compatible with the PARIS database before permits are finalized. Once a permit is issued, you enter limits and monitoring requirements into PARIS and track permit development, submittals, compliance, and required reviews. Because every permit follows its own timeline, there is a significant amount of tracking and coordination involved in this job. This position is a great fit for someone who enjoys keeping complex processes moving and takes pride in accuracy and clarity. What you will do:  Provide professional technical support for over 100 industrial permits. Technical support includes answering questions about submittals and troubleshooting problems in PARIS and the Water Quality Webportal. Prepare permit coverages, review draft permits and fact sheets for technical accuracy and compliance with regulatory requirements. Ensure limit sets are compatible with the PARIS database. Review permit applications for completeness and technical accuracy, and draft correspondence for application acceptance or rejection. Finalize and circulate permit documents for acceptance, comment and issuance; arrange for peer review, entity review, public notice; and final distribution. Maintain the Industrial Unit SharePoint site used by 13 unit staff and others. Create new records in the WebPortal and PARIS database to accept permit-required submittals (e-DMRs). Enter or upload data, notifications, reports/submittals, inspections, and compliance/enforcement information to the PARIS database. Ensure that regional data stored in PARIS is complete and accurate. Qualifications For detailed information on how we calculate experience and responses to other frequently asked questions, please visit our Recruitment website . Required Qualifications: Six (6) years of experience and/or education related to the duties of the position, which must include the following: Permit Administration –  Ability to apply regulatory and technical knowledge to review and issue permits to ensure accurate, complete, and compliant permit decisions. Compliance Evaluation –  Ability to review and assess information and submissions to identify issues or discrepancies to support consistent and defensible compliance decisions. Data & Database Management –  Ability to manage and maintain environmental data systems to ensure accurate records and reliable reporting. Technical Assistance –  Ability to interpret laws, permit conditions, and reporting requirements to guide staff and permittees to ensure consistent and accurate compliance. Technical Communication – Ability to prepare clear and concise written technical documents to convey regulatory decisions and required actions. Collaboration & Process Improvement  – Ability to participate in workgroups and recommend workflow and system improvements to enhance program efficiency and data quality. Education  involving a major study in environmental, physical, or one of the natural sciences; environmental or natural science interdisciplinary studies; environmental planning, or an academic discipline related to the duties of the position. Examples of how to qualify: 6 years of experience. 5 years of experience AND 30-59 semester or 45-89 quarter college credits. 4 years of experience AND 60-89 semester or 90-134 quarter college credits (Associate’s degree). 3 years of experience AND 90-119 semester or 135-179 quarter college credits. 2 years of experience AND a Bachelor’s degree. No experience AND a Master’s degree or above. Desired Qualifications: Experience assisting businesses or public agencies with regulatory requirements. Training and/or experience using databases and web applications. Training and/or experience with data management and quality assurance programs. Supplemental Information Ecology does not use the E-Verify system; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov . Our Commitment to DEIR Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Respect (DEIR)  are core values central to Ecology's work. We strive to be a workplace where we are esteemed for sharing our authentic identities, while advancing our individual professional goals and collaborating to protect, preserve, and enhance the environment for current and future generations.  Diversity: We celebrate and appreciate diversity; our unique perspectives and abilities enrich us all and lead to innovative approaches and solutions. Equity:  We champion equity, recognizing that each of us need different things to thrive. Inclusion: We intentionally create and hold space so that we all have meaningful opportunities to participate and contribute to Ecology’s work. Respect:  We treat each other with respect and dignity, acknowledging the inherent worth of our diverse perspectives and lived experiences, even in times of uncertainty and disagreement. We believe that DEIR is both a goal and an action. We are on a journey, honoring our shared humanity and taking steps to demonstrate our commitment to a vision where each of us is heard, seen, and valued.  Application Process Ecology seeks diverse applicants: We view diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect through a broad lens including race, ethnicity, class, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, immigration status, military background, language, education, life experience, physical disability, neurodiversity, and intersectional identities. Qualified job seekers from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. How to Apply Click “Apply” at the top of this page. Complete the entire application, including full work history and responses to all supplemental questions, and attach: Cover letter, describing your interest in and qualifications for this position  Resume Because we base our selection on the information you provide, it is in your best interest to complete the application thoroughly. A resume will not substitute for the “work experience” section of the application or vice versa. Applications with blank fields or supplemental question responses with comments such as “see resume” may be considered incomplete.  For detailed application information, please visit our Recruitment website. Application Attestation: By submitting an application, you are affirming that the information contained in your application and on all attachments is complete and truthful. The state may verify this information, and any false or misleading answers may result in rejection of your application or dismissal if employed.   Need an Accommodation? If you need reasonable accommodation during the application and/or screening process, including this job announcement in an alternate format: Please contact us at 360-407-6186 and select #2 for Recruitment or email careers@ecy.wa.gov   If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 711 or 1-800-833-6384. Questions? For specific questions about the position location options, schedule, or duties, please contact John Diamant  at John.Diamant@ecy.wa.gov If you need assistance applying for this job, are inquiring about the status of your application, would like to request the full position description, or have any other questions, please contact the Recruitment Team at careers@ecy.wa.gov About the Water Quality Program The mission of the Water Quality Program is to ensure that all aquatic life and communities in the watershed, experience cool, clean water to refresh and sustain us in a changing climate. Water Quality Program’s Goal 3F: PROTECT AND RESTORE OUR STATE’S WATERS requires that we protect surface and ground water by working with our partners to ensure practices are on a path to meet water quality standards; and we restore polluted waters by working with our partners to improve water quality where problems are identified. About the Department of Ecology As the State of Washington’s environmental protection agency, we are deeply committed to protecting, preserving, and enhancing Washington’s environment for current and future generations. Joining Ecology means becoming part of a team dedicated to protecting and sustaining healthy land, air, water, and climate in harmony with a strong economy. A career in public service at Ecology allows you to help solve some of the most challenging problems facing our state, while keeping your health and financial security a priority. We combine one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation with a strong commitment to life/work balance. We invest in our employees to create and sustain a working environment that encourages creative leadership, effective resource management, teamwork, professionalism, and accountability. Ecology employees may be eligible for the following: Medical/Dental/Vision for employee & dependent(s) , Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) , Vacation, Sick, and other Leave *, 11 Paid Holidays per year *, Public Service Loan Forgiveness , Tuition Waiver ,   Long Term Disability & Life Insurance , Deferred Compensation Programs , Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP) ,   Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA) , Employee Assistance Program , Commute Trip Reduction Incentive , Combined Fund Drive , SmartHealth * Click here for more information To learn more about Ecology, please visit our website , explore Working at Ecology , check out our Strategic Plan , and connect with us on LinkedIn , Facebook , Instagram , YouTube , or our blog .  Equal Opportunity Employer: The Washington State Department of Ecology is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, veterans, military spouses or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply. Collective Bargaining: This is a position covered by a bargaining unit for which the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) is the exclusive representative.    Note:  This recruitment may be used to fill other positions of the same job classification across the agency. Once all the position(s) from the recruitment announcement are filled, the recruitment may only be used to fill additional open positions for the next sixty (60) days.

Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen The Department of Ecology is hiring a Facility Engineer (Environmental Engineer 3)  within the Water Quality Program .   Location: Eastern Region Office in Spokane, WA . Upon hire, you must live within a commutable distance from the duty station.   Schedule: This position is eligible for telework and flexible schedule options. The first 30 days will require full time in the office. After 30 days, a minimum of one day per weeks will be required in the office.  Schedules are dependent upon position needs and are subject to change.   Application Timeline:  Apply by October 21, 2026 Applications submitted after the date above may not be reviewed unless additional qualified applicants are needed.   Duties As a Facility Engineer and Permit Writer, you will join a dynamic team dedicated to protecting the surface and groundwater of Washington’s 13 easternmost counties. Experience gained in this position will advance your career in environmental engineering and wastewater regulation. In this role, you will fulfill the Water Quality Program’s mission to provide cool, clean water for future generations through developing waste discharge permits, reviewing engineering, and providing technical assistance to facilities discharging wastewater.  You will utilize your data analysis and technical writing skills to write National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) and State Waste Discharge Permits for a wide range of industrial dischargers and municipal wastewater treatment plants. As a Professional Engineer, you will utilize your knowledge and expertise in wastewater treatment to independently review engineering plans, designs, and specifications for municipal wastewater treatment plants and industrial facilities to ensure protection of water quality. You will be a key member of a dedicated team working collaboratively to verify and ensure compliance with water quality permits.  What you will do: As a Professional Engineer, negotiate and review environmental plans and monitoring programs associated with permitted industrial and municipal wastewater facilities. Apply knowledge and expertise to review engineering documents for industrial and municipal wastewater facilities to ensure continued or increased protection of water quality.  Assist with site inspections and perform site visits for industrial and domestic wastewater facilities to ensure compliance with wastewater permits and provide technical assistance to help facilities meet their water quality permits.  Protect surface waters by authoring National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits for a wide range of industrial facilities and municipal wastewater facilities. Protect groundwater by authoring National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits for a wide range of industrial facilities and municipal wastewater facilities.   Learn more about what it is like to be an Engineer at the Department of Ecology Qualifications For detailed information on how we calculate experience, please visit our Recruitment website .   Required Qualifications: Registration as a Professional Engineer in the state of Washington or another state based on registration requirements equivalent to those in Washington, AND  Three (3) years of experience in environmental engineering, which includes the following: Permit Development –  Ability to develop and review permits to ensure regulatory compliance. Engineering Review – Ability to evaluate engineering plans and reports to ensure systems meet required design and performance standards. Regulatory Interpretation – Ability to interpret laws and technical guidance to ensure sound and defensible permit and engineering decisions. Data and Modeling Analysis –  Ability to analyze data and apply modeling tools to determine impacts and establish appropriate permit conditions. Technical Communication – Ability to communicate engineering and regulatory information clearly to support understanding and compliance. Problem Solving and Judgment –  Ability to identify technical issues and apply sound engineering judgment to make accurate, defensible decisions   Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment: Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license or provide alternate reliable transportation for travel within the state of Washington. Registration as a Professional Engineer in the state of Washington or another state based on registration requirements equivalent to those in Washington, in good standing. Applicants qualifying through the licensing equivalency option must achieve professional registration as an engineer in the state of Washington within six months of appointment to this class. NOTE: Individuals who are licensed as professional engineers in another U.S. jurisdiction or foreign country and wish to apply for this position must qualify for licensure in Washington State by comity. Applicants are responsible for reviewing and ensuring they meet Washington’s comity requirements before submitting application materials.  Licensing requirements can be found on the Washington State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors website: How to Get Your Professional Engineer License When Licensed in Another Jurisdiction . Desired Qualifications: Experience in municipal or industrial wastewater treatment plant design, construction, or operations. Experience applying negotiation and conflict resolution skills. Experience communicating complex technical issues to the public.   If you are excited about this role and meet the required qualifications, we encourage you to apply.  Desired qualifications reflect additional knowledge, skills, or experience that are nice to have but not required. Studies have shown that some applicants, especially women and people of color, are less likely to apply unless they meet every listed qualification. At the Department of Ecology, we are dedicated to building a diverse and authentic workplace centered in belonging, and we welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and unique perspectives.   Supplemental Information Ecology does not use the E-Verify system; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit  www.uscis.gov .   Our Commitment to DEIR Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Respect (DEIR)  are core values central to Ecology's work. We strive to be a workplace where we are esteemed for sharing our authentic identities, while advancing our individual professional goals and collaborating to protect, preserve, and enhance the environment for current and future generations. Diversity:  We celebrate and appreciate diversity; our unique perspectives and abilities enrich us all and lead to innovative approaches and solutions. Equity:  We champion equity, recognizing that each of us need different things to thrive. Inclusion:  We intentionally create and hold space so that we all have meaningful opportunities to participate and contribute to Ecology’s work. Respect:  We treat each other with respect and dignity, acknowledging the inherent worth of our diverse perspectives and lived experiences, even in times of uncertainty and disagreement.   We believe that DEIR   is both a goal and an action. We are on a journey, honoring our shared humanity and taking steps to demonstrate our commitment to a vision where each of us is heard, seen, and valued.   Application Process Ecology seeks diverse applicants: We view diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect through a broad lens including race, ethnicity, class, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, immigration status, military background, language, education, life experience, physical disability, neurodiversity, and intersectional identities. Qualified job seekers from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. How to Apply Click “Apply” at the top of this page. Complete the entire application, including full work history and responses to all supplemental questions, and attach: Cover letter, describing your interest in and qualifications for this position Resume   Because we base our selection on the information you provide, it is in your best interest to complete the application thoroughly.  A resume will not substitute for the “work experience” section of the application or vice versa. Applications with blank fields or supplemental question responses with comments such as “see resume” may be considered incomplete. For detailed application information, please visit our Recruitment website . Application Attestation: By submitting an application, you are affirming that the information contained in your application and on all attachments is complete and truthful. The state may verify this information, and any false or misleading answers may result in rejection of your application or dismissal if employed.   Need an Accommodation? If you need reasonable accommodation during the application and/or screening process, including this job announcement in an alternate format: Please contact us at  360-407-6186 or careers@ecy.wa.gov If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 711 or 1-800-833-6384.   Questions? For specific questions about the position location options, schedule, or duties, please contact Greg Dobb  at Greg.Dobb@ecy.wa.gov If you need assistance applying for this job, are inquiring about the status of your application, would like to request the full position description, or have any other questions, please contact the Recruitment Team at   careers@ecy.wa.gov About the Department of Ecology As the State of Washington’s environmental protection agency, we are deeply committed to protecting, preserving, and enhancing Washington’s environment for current and future generations. Joining Ecology means becoming part of a team dedicated to protecting and sustaining healthy land, air, water, and climate in harmony with a strong economy. A career in public service at Ecology allows you to help solve some of the most challenging problems facing our state, while keeping your health and financial security a priority. We combine one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation with a strong commitment to life/work balance. We invest in our employees to create and sustain a working environment that encourages creative leadership, effective resource management, teamwork, professionalism, and accountability.   Ecology employees may be eligible for the following: Medical/Dental/Vision for employee & dependent(s) , Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) , Vacation, Sick, and other Leave, 11 Paid Holidays per year , Public Service Loan Forgiveness , Tuition Waiver ,   Long Term Disability & Life Insurance , Deferred Compensation Programs , Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP) ,   Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA) , Employee Assistance Program , Commute Trip Reduction Incentives , Combined Fund Drive , SmartHealth * Click here for more information   To learn more about Ecology, please visit our  website , explore Working at Ecology , check out our  Strategic Plan , and connect with us on  LinkedIn ,  Facebook ,  Instagram ,  YouTube , or our  blog .   Equal Opportunity Employer: The Washington State Department of Ecology is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, veterans, military spouses or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply.   Collective Bargaining: This is a position covered by a bargaining unit for which the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) is the exclusive representative.     Note: This recruitment may be used to fill other positions of the same job classification across the agency. Once all the position(s) from the recruitment announcement are filled, the recruitment may only be used to fill additional open positions for the next sixty (60) days.

Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen The Department of Ecology is hiring a Puget Sound Nutrient Reduction Project Specialist (Environmental Specialist 4)  within the Water Quality Program . This is a project position that is funded until December 31, 2029 . This funding is highly likely to be renewed for the next bi-annual budget cycle. Location:  Headquarters Office in Lacey, WA . Upon hire, you must live within a commutable distance from the duty station. Schedule:  This position is eligible for telework and flexible schedule options. You may telework most of your work time with occasional in-person meetings and activities.  Schedules are dependent upon position needs and are subject to change. Application Timeline:  Apply by October 21, 2026 Applications submitted after the date above may not be reviewed unless additional qualified applicants are needed. Duties As the Puget Sound Nutrients Project Specialist, you’ll work in a multi-faceted role to engage with Puget Sound communities providing technical and financial assistance to advance nutrient removal efforts from wastewater treatment plants. You’ll help manage and oversee individual funding awards for nutrient reduction, as well as general wastewater treatment projects. You’ll collaborate with Ecology engineers and permit managers, monitor project performance, conduct site visits, and assist with programmatic planning related to Puget Sound Nutrient Reduction grants. In addition to project and program management duties, you’ll play an important role in advancing the Financial Management Section’s environmental justice goals and initiatives, including writing and publishing environmental justice assessments related to funded projects. What you will do:  Develop individual grant and loan agreements and amendments, working closely with Ecology engineers, permit managers, and funding recipients. Assess project compliance with funding agreement terms, funding program guidelines, agency policy, and state and federal funding program requirements. Monitor performance of funded projects through review and processing of quarterly progress reports, payment requests, backup documentation, project deliverables, and performing site visits throughout the project duration, specifically at critical milestone stages. Work closely with other Water Quality Program grant and loan managers and wastewater treatment facility engineers in providing for the effective and efficient management of the Puget Sound Nutrient Reduction and Clean Water State Revolving Fund monies. Provide leadership in the adaptive management of the Puget Sound Nutrient Reduction Grants Program as a Fund Coordinator. Support the Financial Management Section in its environmental justice initiatives, which include conducting research, writing assessments, and providing guidance to Unit Supervisor and Section Manager on environmental justice issues related to funding programs. Collaborate with other Financial Management Section staff to plan and promote funding opportunities by providing technical assistance for funding applicants and recipients. Qualifications For detailed information on how we calculate experience and responses to other frequently asked questions, please visit our Recruitment website . Required Qualifications: Nine (9) years of experience and/or education related to the duties of the position, which must include the following: Project Coordination –  Ability to organize, monitor, and support project activities to ensure work stays on track and meets program goals. Technical Problem-Solving –  Ability to review technical information and apply environmental knowledge to find practical solutions that support successful project outcomes. Regulation and Policy Application – Ability to interpret and apply rules, policies, and laws to ensure projects comply with required standards. Financial Oversight – Ability to review budgets, payment requests, and financial information to ensure responsible and accurate use of public funds. Collaboration and Communication  – Ability to work effectively with partners and clearly share information to support coordinated decisions and strong working relationships. Equity and Community Awareness –  Ability to recognize community needs and apply equity considerations to support fair and effective program outcomes. Education  involving a major study in environmental, physical, or one of the natural sciences; environmental or natural science interdisciplinary studies; environmental planning, or an academic discipline related to the duties of the position.. Examples of how to qualify: 9 years of experience. 8 years of experience AND 30-59 semester or 45-89 quarter college credits. 7 years of experience AND 60-89 semester or 90-134 quarter college credits (Associate’s degree). 6 years of experience AND 90-119 semester or 135-179 quarter college credits. 5 years of experience AND a Bachelor’s degree. 3 years of experience AND a Master’s degree. 2 years of experience AND a Ph.D. Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment:  Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license or provide alternate reliable transportation for travel within the state of Washington. Regular travel is required between Ecology headquarters, regional offices, partner agency locations, and assigned inspection sites/facilities. Desired Qualifications: Experience working with city or county governments. Experience with developing or managing data tracking systems. Experience managing projects and funding, either as a recipient or agency. Knowledge of environmental justice principals and applicable laws relating to equitable funding. If you are excited about this role and meet the required qualifications, we encourage you to apply. Desired qualifications reflect additional knowledge, skills, or experience that are nice to have but not required. Studies have shown that some applicants, especially women and people of color, are less likely to apply unless they meet every listed qualification. At the Department of Ecology, we are dedicated to building a diverse and authentic workplace centered in belonging, and we welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and unique perspectives. Supplemental Information Ecology does not use the E-Verify system; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov . Our Commitment to DEIR Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Respect (DEIR)  are core values central to Ecology's work. We strive to be a workplace where we are esteemed for sharing our authentic identities, while advancing our individual professional goals and collaborating to protect, preserve, and enhance the environment for current and future generations.  Diversity: We celebrate and appreciate diversity; our unique perspectives and abilities enrich us all and lead to innovative approaches and solutions. Equity:  We champion equity, recognizing that each of us need different things to thrive. Inclusion: We intentionally create and hold space so that we all have meaningful opportunities to participate and contribute to Ecology’s work. Respect:  We treat each other with respect and dignity, acknowledging the inherent worth of our diverse perspectives and lived experiences, even in times of uncertainty and disagreement. We believe that DEIR is both a goal and an action. We are on a journey, honoring our shared humanity and taking steps to demonstrate our commitment to a vision where each of us is heard, seen, and valued.  Application Process Ecology seeks diverse applicants: We view diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect through a broad lens including race, ethnicity, class, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, immigration status, military background, language, education, life experience, physical disability, neurodiversity, and intersectional identities. Qualified job seekers from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. How to Apply Click “Apply” at the top of this page. Complete the entire application, including full work history and responses to all supplemental questions, and attach: Cover letter, describing your interest in and qualifications for this position  Resume Because we base our selection on the information you provide, it is in your best interest to complete the application thoroughly. A resume will not substitute for the “work experience” section of the application or vice versa. Applications with blank fields or supplemental question responses with comments such as “see resume” may be considered incomplete.  For detailed application information, please visit our Recruitment website. Application Attestation: By submitting an application, you are affirming that the information contained in your application and on all attachments is complete and truthful. The state may verify this information, and any false or misleading answers may result in rejection of your application or dismissal if employed.   Need an Accommodation? If you need reasonable accommodation during the application and/or screening process, including this job announcement in an alternate format: Please contact us at 360-407-6186 and select #2 for Recruitment or email careers@ecy.wa.gov   If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 711 or 1-800-833-6384. Questions? For specific questions about the position location options, schedule, or duties, please contact Seth Elsen  at Seth.Elsen@ecy.wa.gov If you need assistance applying for this job, are inquiring about the status of your application, would like to request the full position description, or have any other questions, please contact the Recruitment Team at careers@ecy.wa.gov About the Water Quality Program The Water Quality Program’s Financial Management Section oversees an active portfolio of more than $1 billion in projects related to water quality and public health protection. This position is housed within the Wastewater Financial and Technical Assistance Unit, which administers wastewater funding and provides robust technical assistance for Tribes and small communities to solve wastewater needs big and small. About the Department of Ecology As the State of Washington’s environmental protection agency, we are deeply committed to protecting, preserving, and enhancing Washington’s environment for current and future generations. Joining Ecology means becoming part of a team dedicated to protecting and sustaining healthy land, air, water, and climate in harmony with a strong economy. A career in public service at Ecology allows you to help solve some of the most challenging problems facing our state, while keeping your health and financial security a priority. We combine one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation with a strong commitment to life/work balance. We invest in our employees to create and sustain a working environment that encourages creative leadership, effective resource management, teamwork, professionalism, and accountability. Ecology employees may be eligible for the following: Medical/Dental/Vision for employee & dependent(s) , Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) , Vacation, Sick, and other Leave *, 11 Paid Holidays per year *, Public Service Loan Forgiveness , Tuition Waiver ,   Long Term Disability & Life Insurance , Deferred Compensation Programs , Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP) ,   Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA) , Employee Assistance Program , Commute Trip Reduction Incentive , Combined Fund Drive , SmartHealth * Click here for more information To learn more about Ecology, please visit our website , explore Working at Ecology , check out our Strategic Plan , and connect with us on LinkedIn , Facebook , Instagram , YouTube , or our blog .  Equal Opportunity Employer: The Washington State Department of Ecology is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, veterans, military spouses or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply. Collective Bargaining: This is a position covered by a bargaining unit for which the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) is the exclusive representative.    Note:  This recruitment may be used to fill other positions of the same job classification across the agency. Once all the position(s) from the recruitment announcement are filled, the recruitment may only be used to fill additional open positions for the next sixty (60) days.

Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen The Department of Ecology is hiring two Watershed Implementation Lead (Environmental Specialist 4) positions within the Water Quality Program . Location:  Eastern Region Office in Spokane, WA . Upon hire, you must live within a commutable distance from the duty station. Schedule:  This position is eligible for telework and flexible schedule options. A minimum of one day per week is required in the office.  Schedules are dependent upon position needs and are subject to change.   Application Timeline: Apply by October 21, 2026 Applications submitted after the date above may not be reviewed unless additional qualified applicants are needed. Duties Are you interested in restoring streams and protecting aquatic habitats? Can you picture yourself developing clean-up plans and implementing water quality actions for rivers and streams in eastern Washington? Would you enjoy collaborating with a fantastic team of six fellow implementation leads? If so, these positions could be a great fit for you!   We are hiring two Watershed Implementation Leads: one focused on the Hangman watershed and the other on the Palouse watershed.   In either of these roles, you will coordinate with watershed partners in your designated geographic area to identify and control nonpoint source water pollution with an emphasis on riparian restoration as you work to meet water quality standards. You will be responsible for implementing existing water quality clean-up plans and developing new plans designed to achieve water quality standards and protect aquatic habitat. A significant portion of your role will involve collaborating with landowners and local partners to proactively restore streams using technical assistance and available grant funding. You may also need to use state regulatory tools to achieve compliance when proactive efforts are unsuccessful. What you will do:  You will serve as the watershed-specific lead, responsible developing and implementing Total Maximum Daily Load plans (TMDLs) and Straight to Implementation strategies (STIs) for either the Hangman or Palouse watersheds. TMDLs and STI strategies are different types of water quality clean-up plans designed to meet state water quality standards when streams are polluted. To do this, you will: Craft clean-up strategies and messages, prioritize pollution sources, recommendation actions for cleaning up impairments, and conduct TMDL scoping activities. Coordinate with partners to implement practices identified in clean-up plans, such as riparian restoration, conservation tillage, livestock management, nonpoint stormwater management, etc. Track agency and partner implementation progress toward meeting the goals and milestones of the TMDLs and STIs. Support and/or perform effectiveness monitoring. Perform watershed evaluations to identify land uses that constitute nonpoint pollution sources and develop strategies to bring these sources into compliance. Provide technical assistance and outreach on water quality protection to landowners in the watersheds to help them achieve compliance with water quality laws. Understand and effectively communicate the best management practices needed for water quality and habitat protection. Prepare regulatory documents as needed, including letters of warning, notices of violation, administrative orders, and penalties. Qualifications For detailed information on how we calculate experience and responses to other frequently asked questions, please visit our Recruitment website . Required Qualifications: Nine (9) years of experience and/or education related to the duties of the position, which must include the following: Assessment & Evaluation  – Ability to review and interpret program or site conditions to identify issues and support informed decisions. Plan Development & Implementation  – Ability to create and carry out technical or operational plans to meet program goals and desired outcomes. Regulatory Compliance & Enforcement  – Ability to evaluate activities for compliance with laws and rules and use appropriate tools to resolve violations. Data Interpretation  – Ability to analyze and interpret monitoring or evaluation data to inform recommendations and actions. Collaboration & Partnership Building  – Ability to work effectively with communities, organizations, and partners to achieve shared goals. Technical Assistance & Communication – Ability to explain requirements, practices, and solutions in clear everyday language to support understanding and compliance. Project & Grant Management – Ability to develop, oversee, and evaluate projects to ensure they meet requirements and deliver expected results. Education  involving a major study in environmental, physical, or one of the natural sciences; environmental or natural science interdisciplinary studies; environmental planning; or closely related field. Examples of how to qualify: 9 years of experience. 8 years of experience AND 30-59 semester or 45-89 quarter college credits. 7 years of experience AND 60-89 semester or 90-134 quarter college credits (Associate’s degree). 6 years of experience AND 90-119 semester or 135-179 quarter college credits. 5 years of experience AND a Bachelor’s degree. 3 years of experience AND a Master’s degree. 2 years of experience AND a Ph.D. Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment:  Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license or provide alternate reliable transportation for travel within the state of Washington. Desired Qualifications: Demonstrated ability to understand environmental regulations at the federal, state, and local level. General knowledge of water pollutants and their sources. Experience reviewing environmental clean-up plans, laboratory reports, and scientific studies. Ability to communicate scientific or technical information to a diverse audience. If you are excited about this role and meet the required qualifications, we encourage you to apply. Desired qualifications reflect additional knowledge, skills, or experience that are nice to have but not required. Studies have shown that some applicants, especially women and people of color, are less likely to apply unless they meet every listed qualification. At the Department of Ecology, we are dedicated to building a diverse and authentic workplace centered in belonging, and we welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and unique perspectives. Supplemental Information Ecology does not use the E-Verify system; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov . Our Commitment to DEIR Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Respect (DEIR)  are core values central to Ecology's work. We strive to be a workplace where we are esteemed for sharing our authentic identities, while advancing our individual professional goals and collaborating to protect, preserve, and enhance the environment for current and future generations.  Diversity: We celebrate and appreciate diversity; our unique perspectives and abilities enrich us all and lead to innovative approaches and solutions. Equity:  We champion equity, recognizing that each of us need different things to thrive. Inclusion: We intentionally create and hold space so that we all have meaningful opportunities to participate and contribute to Ecology’s work. Respect:  We treat each other with respect and dignity, acknowledging the inherent worth of our diverse perspectives and lived experiences, even in times of uncertainty and disagreement. We believe that DEIR is both a goal and an action. We are on a journey, honoring our shared humanity and taking steps to demonstrate our commitment to a vision where each of us is heard, seen, and valued.  Application Process Ecology seeks diverse applicants: We view diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect through a broad lens including race, ethnicity, class, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, immigration status, military background, language, education, life experience, physical disability, neurodiversity, and intersectional identities. Qualified job seekers from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. How to Apply Click “Apply” at the top of this page. Complete the entire application, including full work history and responses to all supplemental questions, and attach: Cover letter, describing your interest in and qualifications for this position  Resume Because we base our selection on the information you provide, it is in your best interest to complete the application thoroughly. A resume will not substitute for the “work experience” section of the application or vice versa. Applications with blank fields or supplemental question responses with comments such as “see resume” may be considered incomplete.  For detailed application information, please visit our Recruitment website. Application Attestation: By submitting an application, you are affirming that the information contained in your application and on all attachments is complete and truthful. The state may verify this information, and any false or misleading answers may result in rejection of your application or dismissal if employed.   Need an Accommodation? If you need reasonable accommodation during the application and/or screening process, including this job announcement in an alternate format: Please contact us at 360-407-6186 or careers@ecy.wa.gov   If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 711 or 1-800-833-6384. Questions? For specific questions about the position location options, schedule, or duties, please contact Mitch Redfern at Mitch.Redfern@ecy.wa.gov   If you need assistance applying for this job, are inquiring about the status of your application, would like to request the full position description, or have any other questions, please contact the Recruitment Team at careers@ecy.wa.gov About the Department of Ecology As the State of Washington’s environmental protection agency, we are deeply committed to protecting, preserving, and enhancing Washington’s environment for current and future generations. Joining Ecology means becoming part of a team dedicated to protecting and sustaining healthy land, air, water, and climate in harmony with a strong economy. A career in public service at Ecology allows you to help solve some of the most challenging problems facing our state, while keeping your health and financial security a priority. We combine one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation with a strong commitment to life/work balance. We invest in our employees to create and sustain a working environment that encourages creative leadership, effective resource management, teamwork, professionalism, and accountability. Ecology employees may be eligible for the following: Medical/Dental/Vision for employee & dependent(s) , Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) , Vacation, Sick, and other Leave *, 11 Paid Holidays per year *, Public Service Loan Forgiveness , Tuition Waiver ,   Long Term Disability & Life Insurance , Deferred Compensation Programs , Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP) ,   Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA) , Employee Assistance Program , Commute Trip Reduction Incentive , Combined Fund Drive , SmartHealth * Click here for more information To learn more about Ecology, please visit our website , explore Working at Ecology , check out our Strategic Plan , and connect with us on LinkedIn , Facebook , Instagram , YouTube , or our blog .  Equal Opportunity Employer: The Washington State Department of Ecology is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, veterans, military spouses or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply. Collective Bargaining: This is a position covered by a bargaining unit for which the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) is the exclusive representative.    Note:  This recruitment may be used to fill other positions of the same job classification across the agency. Once all the position(s) from the recruitment announcement are filled, the recruitment may only be used to fill additional open positions for the next sixty (60) days.

Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen The Department of Ecology is hiring a Stormwater Compliance Unit Supervisor (WMS1)  within the Water Quality Program 's Northwest Region section. Location: Northwest Region Office in Shoreline, WA . The salary listed includes 5% premium pay due to the position location in King County.  Upon hire, you must live within a commutable distance from the duty station. Schedule:  This position is eligible for telework and flexible schedule options. A minimum of one day per week is required in the office. Schedules are dependent upon position needs and are subject to change. Application Timeline:  Apply by October 20, 2026 Applications submitted after the date above may not be reviewed unless additional qualified applicants are needed. Duties As the Stormwater Compliance Unit Supervisor, you will lead a team of eleven inspectors who conduct compliance assurance activities for many of Washington’s National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System general permits. These include the Construction Stormwater, Industrial Stormwater, Boatyard, Upland Finfish, Winery, Vessel Deconstruction, and Bridge/Ferry Terminal Maintenance permits. Your team works directly with businesses, contractors, and facility operators to help them understand requirements, improve pollution control practices, and resolve compliance issues. You will oversee unique technical and regulatory work associated with high-profile stormwater management projects, including use of companion orders for construction activities on contaminated sites, Duwamish River source control activities, and transportation-related construction project compliance assurance. In this role, you decide how to focus limited resources across some of the busiest counties in the state. You set priorities for inspections, complaint response, sector-based initiatives, and follow up actions. You support staff through training, coaching, and daily guidance, and you ensure that inspection reports, external correspondence, and enforcement documents are clear, accurate, and timely. You also make sure our enforcement actions meet legal and procedural standards. This position offers the opportunity to lead and grow a collaborative team and make a direct difference in protecting Washington’s water quality. What you will do:  Lead, organize, and support the work of the Stormwater Compliance Unit. Ensure staff have the training, tools, and guidance they need, and provide timely feedback and professional development opportunities. Evaluate performance and take corrective or disciplinary action when needed. This includes frequent travel to permitted facilities across the state to train staff and observe fieldwork, including long distances and remote locations. Plan and manage the unit’s workload. Coordinate annual planning, set priorities, assign work, support project teams across programs, and track progress to ensure tasks and commitments are completed on time. Develop and maintain procedures that support field staff safety, strong data and records practices, and efficient use of forms, paperwork, and agency data systems. Conduct recruitment efforts for vacant positions by preparing position descriptions and essential functions analyses, and serving as the hiring manager in accordance with agency policies and procedures. Serve as section contact for policy and program development within assigned areas. This includes work related to general permit implementation, use of the stormwater management manual, and Puget Sound No Discharge Zone implementation. Oversee recommendations for formal enforcement actions and guide the unit through any related appeals. Represent the program as the Lead Manager for appeals of Stormwater Compliance Unit enforcement actions. Provide technical support to the Attorney General’s Office as needed. Serve as an expert witness or program representative in proceedings before the Pollution Control Hearings Board or other administrative bodies or courts. Qualifications For detailed information on how we calculate experience and responses to other frequently asked questions, please visit our Recruitment website . Required Qualifications: Nine (9) years  of experience and/or education related to the duties of the position, which must include the following: Regulatory and Compliance Oversight –  Ability to apply laws, permits, and policies to ensure consistent, accurate, and defensible compliance and enforcement decisions. Work Planning and Resource Management –  Ability to organize work, set priorities, and allocate staff and budget to ensure program commitments and performance targets are met. Employee Leadership and Development  – Ability to coach, evaluate, and support staff performance to build a skilled, confident, and effective team. Documentation and Quality Assurance – Ability to review reports, records, and enforcement documents to ensure accuracy, clarity, and adherence to legal and policy requirements. Collaboration and Communication  – Ability to communicate clearly and work effectively with staff, managers, partners, and the public to ensure shared understanding and coordinated actions. Policy Interpretation and Implementation  – Ability to understand and translate governmental policies and technical guidance into practical direction for staff and clear program actions. Education  involving a major study in environmental, physical, or one of the natural sciences; environmental or natural science interdisciplinary studies; environmental planning, engineering, public administration, or an academic discipline related to the duties of the position. Examples of how to qualify: 9 years of experience. 8 years of experience AND 30-59 semester or 45-89 quarter college credits. 7 years of experience AND 60-89 semester or 90-134 quarter college credits (Associate’s degree). 6 years of experience AND 90-119 semester or 135-179 quarter college credits. 5 years of experience AND a Bachelor’s degree. 3 years of experience AND a Master’s degree. 2 years of experience AND a Ph.D. Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment:  Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license or provide alternate reliable transportation for travel within the state of Washington. Regular travel is required between Ecology headquarters, regional offices, partner agency locations, and permitted sites/facilities that have limited or no public transportation. Desired Qualifications: Experience supervising and recruiting employees. Technical expertise in stormwater management principles, stormwater treatment, and environmental compliance practices. Knowledge of National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permitting, Clean Water Act regulations, Washington State stormwater requirements and associated technical guidance. Proven negotiation and facilitation skills used to resolve complex environmental challenges. If you are excited about this role and meet the required qualifications, we encourage you to apply. Desired qualifications reflect additional knowledge, skills, or experience that are nice to have but not required. Studies have shown that some applicants, especially women and people of color, are less likely to apply unless they meet every listed qualification. At the Department of Ecology, we are dedicated to building a diverse and authentic workplace centered in belonging, and we welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and unique perspectives. Supplemental Information Ecology does not use the E-Verify system; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov . Our Commitment to DEIR Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Respect (DEIR)  are core values central to Ecology's work. We strive to be a workplace where we are esteemed for sharing our authentic identities, while advancing our individual professional goals and collaborating to protect, preserve, and enhance the environment for current and future generations.  Diversity: We celebrate and appreciate diversity; our unique perspectives and abilities enrich us all and lead to innovative approaches and solutions. Equity:  We champion equity, recognizing that each of us need different things to thrive. Inclusion: We intentionally create and hold space so that we all have meaningful opportunities to participate and contribute to Ecology’s work. Respect:  We treat each other with respect and dignity, acknowledging the inherent worth of our diverse perspectives and lived experiences, even in times of uncertainty and disagreement. We believe that DEIR is both a goal and an action. We are on a journey, honoring our shared humanity and taking steps to demonstrate our commitment to a vision where each of us is heard, seen, and valued.  Application Process Ecology seeks diverse applicants: We view diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect through a broad lens including race, ethnicity, class, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, immigration status, military background, language, education, life experience, physical disability, neurodiversity, and intersectional identities. Qualified job seekers from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. How to Apply Click “Apply” at the top of this page. Complete the entire application, including full work history and responses to all supplemental questions, and attach: Cover letter, describing your interest in and qualifications for this position  Resume Because we base our selection on the information you provide, it is in your best interest to complete the application thoroughly. A resume will not substitute for the “work experience” section of the application or vice versa. Applications with blank fields or supplemental question responses with comments such as “see resume” may be considered incomplete.  For detailed application information, please visit our Recruitment website. Application Attestation: By submitting an application, you are affirming that the information contained in your application and on all attachments is complete and truthful. The state may verify this information, and any false or misleading answers may result in rejection of your application or dismissal if employed.   Need an Accommodation? If you need reasonable accommodation during the application and/or screening process, including this job announcement in an alternate format: Please contact us at 360-407-6186 or careers@ecy.wa.gov   If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 711 or 1-800-833-6384. Questions? For specific questions about the position location, schedule, or duties, please contact Rachel McCrea  at Rachel.McCrea@ecy.wa.gov If you need assistance applying for this job, are inquiring about the status of your application, would like to request the full position description, or have any other questions, please contact the Recruitment Team at careers@ecy.wa.gov About the Northwest Region's Water Quality Section Ecology’s NW Region consists of Whatcom, Skagit, San Juan, Island, Snohomish, King and Kitsap counties. All of our work plays a critical role in protecting and restoring Puget Sound. As a section, we are made up of over 60 positions, divided into five (5) units. Our offices are located in Shoreline and Bellingham, and our team and business are integrated across the two offices. Our work portfolio includes financial assistance, water cleanup planning and implementation, point source permitting, nonpoint source management, compliance assurance and enforcement. You will oversee unique technical and regulatory work associated with high-risk and high-profile stormwater management projects, including use of companion orders for construction activities on contaminated sites, Duwamish River source control activities, and transportation-related construction project compliance assurance. About the Department of Ecology As the State of Washington’s environmental protection agency, we are deeply committed to protecting, preserving, and enhancing Washington’s environment for current and future generations. Joining Ecology means becoming part of a team dedicated to protecting and sustaining healthy land, air, water, and climate in harmony with a strong economy. A career in public service at Ecology allows you to help solve some of the most challenging problems facing our state, while keeping your health and financial security a priority. We combine one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation with a strong commitment to life/work balance. We invest in our employees to create and sustain a working environment that encourages creative leadership, effective resource management, teamwork, professionalism, and accountability. Ecology employees may be eligible for the following: Medical/Dental/Vision for employee & dependent(s) , Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) , Vacation, Sick, and other Leave *, 11 Paid Holidays per year *, Public Service Loan Forgiveness , Tuition Waiver ,   Long Term Disability & Life Insurance , Deferred Compensation Programs , Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP) ,   Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA) , Employee Assistance Program , Commute Trip Reduction Incentive , Combined Fund Drive , SmartHealth * Click here for more information To learn more about Ecology, please visit our website , explore Working at Ecology , check out our Strategic Plan , and connect with us on LinkedIn , Facebook , Instagram , YouTube , or our blog .  Equal Opportunity Employer: The Washington State Department of Ecology is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, veterans, military spouses or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply. Note:  This recruitment may be used to fill other positions of the same job classification across the agency. 

Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen The Department of Ecology is hiring an Assistant Program Planner and Performance Coordinator (Management Analyst 3)  within the Water Quality Program . Location:  Headquarters Office in Lacey, WA . Upon hire, you must live within a commutable distance from the duty station Schedule:  This position is eligible for telework and flexible schedule options. A minimum of one day per week is required in the office.  Schedules are dependent upon position needs and are subject to change. Application Timeline:  Apply by October 12, 2026 Applications submitted after the date above may not be reviewed unless additional qualified applicants are needed. Interviews are tentatively scheduled for October 28. 2026.  Duties The Assistant Program planner is an exciting position that supports several critical program functions. You will have the chance to develop and refine a wide range of skills and areas of knowledge: the legislative process, policy development, program planning, performance monitoring, and process improvement. You’ll regularly work with program executives and senior staff. It’s a great opportunity for someone who wants to experience a diverse set of duties and learn about environmental protection through several different lenses. What you will do:  Lead Water Quality’s (WQ) process improvement projects: identify areas where program workflows and systems can be streamlined and automated, then work with appropriate staff to implement those projects. Support the Water Quality Legislative Liaison: track and research bills; coordinate the development of policy analysis, development, and legislative reports; draft or edit legislative and policy documents. Support the WQ Program Planner: help develop program strategic and business plans; lead specific portions of the planning process. Work with large data systems and data sets to develop graphs, tables, and charts reflecting program outcomes, and report outcomes to program managers and state systems. Support the WQ Environmental Justice Planner: Coordinate and support the development of WQ’s environmental justice (EJ) workplans and EJ impact reports. Qualifications For detailed information on how we calculate experience and responses to other frequently asked questions, please visit our Recruitment website . Required Qualifications: Seven (7) years of experience and/or education related to the duties of the position, which must include the following: Legislative and Policy Analysis  – Ability to research and interpret laws, rules, and policy proposals to understand their impacts and provide clear recommendations that support program decisions. Analytical Thinking and Data Interpretation  – Ability to examine complex information and data, identify key issues or trends, and develop practical insights to support informed decision-making. Project Coordination and Leadership  – Ability to organize and guide small to medium-sized projects to keep activities on track, ensure alignment among participants, and achieve timely, quality results. Process Improvement  – Ability to analyze how work is done, identify inefficiencies or gaps, and recommend improvements that make processes clearer, more efficient, and easier to use. Communication and Presentation  – Ability to clearly communicate information in writing and visually to help staff, managers, and partners understand data, decisions, and next steps. Facilitation and Collaboration  – Ability to bring groups together, guide discussions, and support productive teamwork to help groups make decisions and move work forward. Education  involving a major study in business administration, operations management, public administration, organizational studies, health administration, law, environmental law, finance, economics, statistics, environmental management, environmental or public policy, or closely related field; Professional certification in Six Sigma, Lean Black Belt, or Project Management Professional (PMP) may be accepted month-for month, up to one year of qualifying education. Examples of how to qualify: 7 years of experience. 6 years of experience AND 30-59 semester or 45-89 quarter college credits. 5 years of experience AND 60-89 semester or 90-134 quarter college credits (Associate’s degree). 4 years of experience AND 90-119 semester or 135-179 quarter college credits. 3 years of experience AND a Bachelor’s degree. 2 years of experience AND a Master’s degree or higher. Desired Qualifications: A strong customer service ethic. Self-starter. Problem-solver. Attention to detail. If you are excited about this role and meet the required qualifications, we encourage you to apply.  Supplemental Information Ecology does not use the E-Verify system; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov . Our Commitment to DEIR Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Respect (DEIR)  are core values central to Ecology's work. We strive to be a workplace where we are esteemed for sharing our authentic identities, while advancing our individual professional goals and collaborating to protect, preserve, and enhance the environment for current and future generations.  We believe that DEIR is both a goal and an action. We are on a journey, honoring our shared humanity and taking steps to demonstrate our commitment to a vision where each of us is heard, seen, and valued.  Application Process Ecology seeks diverse applicants: We view diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect through a broad lens including race, ethnicity, class, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, immigration status, military background, language, education, life experience, physical disability, neurodiversity, and intersectional identities. Qualified job seekers from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. How to Apply Click “Apply” at the top of this page. Complete the entire application, including full work history and responses to all supplemental questions, and attach: Cover letter, describing your interest in and qualifications for this position  Resume Because we base our selection on the information you provide, it is in your best interest to complete the application thoroughly. A resume will not substitute for the “work experience” section of the application or vice versa. Applications with blank fields or supplemental question responses with comments such as “see resume” may be considered incomplete.  For detailed application information, please visit our Recruitment website. Application Attestation: By submitting an application, you are affirming that the information contained in your application and on all attachments is complete and truthful. The state may verify this information, and any false or misleading answers may result in rejection of your application or dismissal if employed.   Need an Accommodation? If you need reasonable accommodation during the application and/or screening process, including this job announcement in an alternate format: Please contact us at 360-407-6186 or careers@ecy.wa.gov   If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 711 or 1-800-833-6384. Questions? For specific questions about the position location options, schedule, or duties, please contact David Giglio at David.Giglio@ecy.wa.gov If you need assistance applying for this job, are inquiring about the status of your application, would like to request the full position description, or have any other questions, please contact the Recruitment Team at careers@ecy.wa.gov About the Water Quality Program This position works in the Program Manager’s Office, which provides central leadership and support to a program of almost 400 environmental professionals. The Water Quality Program protects and improves water quality through regulations (permits) as well as technical and financial assistance. About the Department of Ecology As the State of Washington’s environmental protection agency, we are deeply committed to protecting, preserving, and enhancing Washington’s environment for current and future generations. Joining Ecology means becoming part of a team dedicated to protecting and sustaining healthy land, air, water, and climate in harmony with a strong economy. A career in public service at Ecology allows you to help solve some of the most challenging problems facing our state, while keeping your health and financial security a priority. We combine one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation with a strong commitment to life/work balance. We invest in our employees to create and sustain a working environment that encourages creative leadership, effective resource management, teamwork, professionalism, and accountability. Ecology employees may be eligible for the following: Medical/Dental/Vision for employee & dependent(s) , Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) , Vacation, Sick, and other Leave *, 11 Paid Holidays per year *, Public Service Loan Forgiveness , Tuition Waiver ,   Long Term Disability & Life Insurance , Deferred Compensation Programs , Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP) ,   Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA) , Employee Assistance Program , Commute Trip Reduction Incentive , Combined Fund Drive , SmartHealth * Click here for more information To learn more about Ecology, please visit our website , explore Working at Ecology , check out our Strategic Plan , and connect with us on LinkedIn , Facebook , Instagram , YouTube , or our blog .  Equal Opportunity Employer: The Washington State Department of Ecology is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, veterans, military spouses or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply. Collective Bargaining: This is a position covered by a bargaining unit for which the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) is the exclusive representative.    Note:  This recruitment may be used to fill other positions of the same job classification across the agency. Once all the position(s) from the recruitment announcement are filled, the recruitment may only be used to fill additional open positions for the next sixty (60) days.

Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen The Department of Ecology is hiring a Climate Change Outreach Specialist (Community Outreach & Environmental Education Specialist 3)  within the Climate Pollution Reduction Program (CPRP). NOTE: This is a temporary position to fill an extended vacancy expected to end May 31, 2027 with the potential for an extension. If the permanent employee returns early, the temporary position may end early. If the permanent employee does not return, Ecology may choose to elevate the temporary position to permanent status.  Location:  Eastern Region Office in Spokane, WA . Upon hire, you must live within a commutable distance from the duty station. Schedule:  This position is eligible for telework and flexible schedule options. A minimum of one day per week is required in the office. This position is expected to be in the office for a full workday every Tuesday. Schedules are dependent upon position needs and are subject to change. Application Timeline: Apply by October 12, 2026. Applications submitted after the date above may not be reviewed unless additional qualified applicants are needed. Duties In this role, you will serve as the outreach and education specialist for your eastern and central regional teammates in the Climate Pollution Reduction Program's F-Gas Section. You will support our statewide Hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) emission reduction program's communication and education. (HFCs are considered climate super-pollutants, meaning you will be helping our team reduce climate changing emissions in Washington State!) In tandem with the Outreach Team Lead (based at Ecology Headquarters in Lacey), you will develop accessible print and electronic materials, plan and coordinate education events; and support outreach to regulated communities. The position also helps strategize environmental justice compliance and program implementation by conducting outreach campaigns and surveys, managing and analyzing engagement data, and providing outreach support for regional F-Gas Section staff. All communication, engagement, and outreach activities must align with Washington’s environmental justice law (HEAL Act), Ecology’s Community Engagement Plan and Tribal Consultation Framework, and state and federal accessibility and nondiscrimination requirements, including Title VI language and disability access. This position plays a key role in delivering consistent, equitable, and effective HFC program communication across the state. What you will do:  Coordinate regional training and outreach efforts for the F-Gas Section to promote consistent, high-quality education across the state. Collaborate with the COEES Team Lead and other F-Gas Section staff to evaluate outreach and education activities and strengthen cross-regional alignment. Communicate HFC requirements clearly and confidently to regulated businesses, community groups, Tribal governments, and members of the public. Develop and manage outreach and communication plans that support successful HFC program implementation. Create and distribute accessible educational materials, including newsletters, fact sheets, presentations, brochures, and displays, to help audiences understand program requirements. Plan, implement and facilitate workshops, trainings, office hours, conferences, and meetings. Give public presentations or table events. Travel may be required for some events.  Work directly with external partners to plan tailored training activities that help regulated communities understand HFC program expectations and compliance expectations. Represent Ecology during meetings, workshops, and field visits with interested groups, e.g. health districts, regional clean air agencies, or conferences throughout ERO and CRO. Conduct environmental, economic, health, and demographic research to help identify overburdened communities and inform equitable outreach approaches. Integrate environmental justice and Title VI best practices into all project work, using tools such as the Environmental Health Disparities Map. Qualifications For detailed information on how we calculate experience and responses to other frequently asked questions, please visit our Recruitment website . Required Qualifications: Seven years of experience and/or education related to the duties of the position, which includes the following: Outreach Strategy Planning and Implementation -  Experience developing and carrying out outreach and education strategies for complex technical or regulatory programs. Clear and Inclusive Communication -  Demonstrated competence communicating regulatory or technical information in plain language to diverse audiences. Digital and Language Accessibility -  Experience applying digital accessibility and language access standards, including coordinating translation or interpretation services. Community and Program Engagement -  Demonstrated competence engaging regulated entities, Tribal communities, and local partners to support understanding of program requirements. Outreach Materials Development -  Skilled in creating and revising outreach products such as presentations, graphics, websites, fact sheets, and other public-facing materials. Facilitation and Public Event Coordination -  Experience planning, facilitating, or moderating workshops, trainings, public meetings, and similar engagement activities. Education  involving a major study in environmental, physical, or natural science, education, communications or a closely related field. Examples of how to qualify: 7 years of experience. 6 years of experience AND 30-59 semester or 45-89 quarter college credits. 5 years of experience AND 60-89 semester or 90-134 quarter college credits (Associate’s degree). 4 years of experience AND 90-119 semester or 135-179 quarter college credits. 3 years of experience AND a Bachelor’s degree. 1 year of experience AND a Master’s degree or above. Desired Qualifications: Public Involvement and Risk Communication Knowledge -  Demonstrated competence applying public involvement principles, behavior change strategies, risk communication practices, Title VI requirements, and environmental justice best practices. Climate, Environmental, or Public Health Outreach Expertise -  Experience developing outreach or educational materials on climate change, environmental topics, or public health issues. Underserved Community Engagement -  Experience designing and implementing engagement approaches that effectively reach underserved, overburdened, or linguistically isolated communities. Environmental Justice Integration -  Ability to use environmental justice tools and data to identify community needs and inform equitable outreach strategies. Cross-Cultural and Tribal Engagement Skills -  Ability to work collaboratively with Tribal communities, Indigenous peoples, communities of color, immigrant communities, and rural or low-income populations to build trust and support program goals. Writing and Editing Proficiency -  Strong skill in writing, editing, and reviewing outreach and educational materials to ensure clarity, accuracy, and accessibility for diverse audiences. If you are excited about this role and meet the required qualifications, we encourage you to apply. Desired qualifications reflect additional knowledge, skills, or experience that are nice to have but not required. Studies have shown that some applicants, especially women and people of color, are less likely to apply unless they meet every listed qualification. At the Department of Ecology, we are dedicated to building a diverse and authentic workplace centered in belonging, and we welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and unique perspectives. Supplemental Information Ecology does not use the E-Verify system; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov . Application Process Ecology seeks diverse applicants: We view diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect through a broad lens including race, ethnicity, class, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, immigration status, military background, language, education, life experience, physical disability, neurodiversity, and intersectional identities. Qualified job seekers from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. How to Apply Click “Apply” at the top of this page. Complete the entire application, including full work history and responses to all supplemental questions, and attach: Cover letter, describing your interest in and qualifications for this position  Resume Because we base our selection on the information you provide, it is in your best interest to complete the application thoroughly. A resume will not substitute for the “work experience” section of the application or vice versa. Applications with blank fields or supplemental question responses with comments such as “see resume” may be considered incomplete.  For detailed application information, please visit our Recruitment website. Application Attestation: By submitting an application, you are affirming that the information contained in your application and on all attachments is complete and truthful. The state may verify this information, and any false or misleading answers may result in rejection of your application or dismissal if employed.   Need an Accommodation? If you need reasonable accommodation during the application and/or screening process, including this job announcement in an alternate format: Please contact us at 360-407-6186 or careers@ecy.wa.gov   If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 711 or 1-800-833-6384. Questions? For specific questions about the position location options, schedule, or duties, please contact Leonard Machut  at Leonard.Machut@ecy.wa.gov .  If you need assistance applying for this job, are inquiring about the status of your application, would like to request the full position description, or have any other questions, please contact the Recruitment Team at careers@ecy.wa.gov About the Climate Pollution Reduction Program The mission of the Climate Pollution Reduction Program (CPRP) is to guide Washington to a net zero future by 2050. We implement policies that encourage businesses and individuals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and build a clean energy economy.  This position helps to achieve this mission by communicating and promoting how the hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) program protects and improves air quality across Washington State, playing a key outreach role to reduce emissions, improve air quality, and address climate change. Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Respect (DEIR)  are core values central to Ecology's work. We strive to be a workplace where we are esteemed for sharing our authentic identities, while advancing our individual professional goals and collaborating to protect, preserve, and enhance the environment for current and future generations.  We believe that DEIR is both a goal and an action. We are on a journey, honoring our shared humanity and taking steps to demonstrate our commitment to a vision where each of us is heard, seen, and valued.  Ecology employees may be eligible for the following: Medical/Dental/Vision for employee & dependent(s) , Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) , Vacation, Sick, and other Leave *, 11 Paid Holidays per year *, Public Service Loan Forgiveness , Tuition Waiver ,   Long Term Disability & Life Insurance , Deferred Compensation Programs , Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP) ,   Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA) , Employee Assistance Program , Commute Trip Reduction Incentive , Combined Fund Drive , SmartHealth * Click here for more information To learn more about Ecology, please visit our website , explore Working at Ecology , check out our Strategic Plan , and connect with us on LinkedIn , Facebook , Instagram , YouTube , or our blog .  Equal Opportunity Employer: The Washington State Department of Ecology is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, veterans, military spouses or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply. Collective Bargaining: This is a position covered by a bargaining unit for which the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) is the exclusive representative.    Note:  This recruitment may be used to fill other positions of the same job classification across the agency. Once all the position(s) from the recruitment announcement are filled, the recruitment may only be used to fill additional open positions for the next sixty (60) days.

Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen The Department of Ecology is hiring an Administrative Services Director (EMS Band 4) within the Executive Leadership Team. Location:  Headquarters Office in Lacey, WA . Upon hire, you must live within a commutable distance from the duty station. Schedule:  This position is eligible for telework and flexible schedule options. A minimum of three days per week is required in the office. Schedules are dependent upon position needs and are subject to change. Application Timeline:  Apply by October 21, 2026 Applications submitted after the date above may not be reviewed unless additional qualified applicants are needed. Duties We are looking for a leader ready to partner with a dedicated group of professionals in leading and creating transformational change across a multi-disciplinary team here at Washington Ecology. In this role, you will serve as the Director of Ecology’s Administrative Services Division director overseeing key cross-agency operations including information and real property management, facilities operations and sustainability, risk and emergency management, records management, public disclosure, fleet and transportation services, continuity of operations, and agency security. You will translate organizational vision into effective, efficient, and optimized enterprise services that support the long-term strategic direction of the organization. You will provide strategic decision-making and deliver policies with broad agency-wide impacts that shape how Ecology manages its resources, assets, and information. Responsibilities include: Planning, leading, organizing, and directing Ecology’s statewide administrative services, including facilities and real property management, risk management, emergency management and business continuity, fleet operations, security, records management, public disclosure, and cross-organizational administrative support functions. Developing long-term strategies and biennial facilities plans in coordination with the Office of Financial Management and the Department of Enterprise Services to ensure sustainable, compliant, and mission-aligned facility operations across all Ecology locations. Establishing and updating policies, procedures, and standards for administrative and operational services, including serving as the signatory authority for Ecology’s Policy Manual Chapter 14, Facilities and Vehicles. Managing and optimizing Ecology’s statewide real property portfolio, including approximately 500,000 square feet of owned and leased facilities and tenant services for state and federal entities. Overseeing agency security policies, practices, monitoring, and preparedness while chairing Ecology’s Security Committee and ensuring physical safety across facilities. Leading agency-wide emergency management and business continuity planning, including representing Ecology’s Director in statewide and enterprise-level emergency management, homeland security, continuity of operations, and disaster recovery efforts. Implementing and overseeing enterprise Electronic Content Management systems in partnership with Ecology’s Information Technology and Services Office to strengthen information governance and records integrity. Overseeing fleet operations as a shared service with the Department of Enterprise Services, ensuring vehicle safety, operational reliability, and accurate reporting of energy use, greenhouse gas emissions, and zero-emission vehicle utilization. Serving as Ecology’s Risk Manager, including developing and maintaining risk policies, conducting agency-wide compliance monitoring, guiding risk financing decisions, and ensuring alignment with statewide risk requirements. Directing administrative services budgets, facility investments, procurement activities, and contracts—approving expenditures, leases, purchases, and personnel actions consistent with Ecology’s Signature and Authority Matrix. Hiring, mentoring, and developing administrative services leaders and staff while fostering a collaborative, inclusive, accountable, and high-performing division. Representing Ecology on statewide administrative, facility, fleet, emergency management, and risk management issues with OFM, DES, other state agencies, federal partners, and local jurisdictions. Serving as Executive Sponsor for the Fleet Management Advisory Committee and the Modern Work Environment Steering Committee. Who are we looking for? We are looking for an experienced executive who can partner and collaborate effectively within complex governance structures and with scientific, regulatory, technical, and operational teams across the agency. You will need to be able to: Conceptualize and implement long-range administrative strategy, anticipate emerging facility and operational needs, and guide Ecology through complex organizational and infrastructure planning. Communicate effectively with diverse partners across government, including OFM, DES, federal entities, local jurisdictions, and internal staff on high-impact administrative and facility issues. Demonstrate a clear understanding of real property management, construction project practices, facility operations, procurement requirements, statewide administrative governance, risk finance principles, records and disclosure laws, and public-sector operational constraints. Recognize how facilities, security, risk management, records, transportation, and operational systems influence environmental programs, staff effectiveness, public service delivery, and the communities where Ecology owns or leases facilities—and identify what is needed to deliver durable, mission-aligned outcomes. Apply advanced management principles to balance complex priorities, optimize resources, develop staff, ensure compliance, and advance agency-wide operational readiness. A Key Member of Ecology’s Executive Leadership Team This position serves as a key member of Ecology’s Executive Leadership Team and plays a critical role in advancing the agency’s mission to protect, preserve, and enhance Washington’s environment for current and future generations. It is essential that you consistently demonstrate the highest standards of personal, professional, and ethical conduct in support of transparent, accountable, and effective government. This is a highly visible executive position with statewide impact. You will guide agency-wide administrative policy, represent Ecology on issues related to facilities, real property, fleet, emergency management, security, records governance, and operational resilience, and support executive decision-making through forward-looking administrative leadership. You will balance complex operational demands with long-term vision to build secure, resilient, efficient administrative systems that support staff and strengthen Ecology’s statewide mission. As a key member of Ecology's Executive Leadership Team, you will: Serve as a trusted leader and advisor on cross-agency management and operational strategy, including but not limited to asset and real property management, emergency preparedness, risk management practices, security policy, and records governance. Advise the Director and Deputy Directors on administrative strategy and investments, policy development, enterprise risk, and operational readiness. Collaborate across programs to align administrative priorities with Ecology’s environmental mission, scientific needs, regulatory responsibilities, and operational goals. Represent the Director and agency on statewide administrative, facility, security, and risk management issues. Foster a diverse, equitable, inclusive, respectful, and high-performing workplace that supports learning, accountability, transparency, and staff engagement. This position is an Exempt Management Service (EMS) Band IV position. The minimum and maximum salary for EMS Band IV positions is $100,692 - $173,472. Qualifications For detailed information on how we calculate experience and responses to other frequently asked questions, please visit our Recruitment website . Required Qualifications: Demonstrated expertise  in business administration, workforce administration, facilities, records, security, risk and emergency readiness, natural science, environmental studies, engineering, public administration, planning public policy, political science, law, or other related qualifying discipline. This expertise can be demonstrated through professional degrees and/or professional and lived experience, as listed below.  Demonstrated professional level management experience which includes: Strategic Planning and Direction Setting – Proven track record conceptualizing and articulating long-range organizational direction and developing and implementing annual and biennial strategic plans that strengthen agency operations and guide future administrative priorities. Judgment and Decision Making – Demonstrated competence making high-impact operational and policy decisions to promote agency effectiveness, legal compliance, and operational continuity. Communication and Collaboration –Proven experience conveying complex administrative, policy, or facilities matters to audiences from various backgrounds to ensure shared understanding and informed decisions. Inter-Governmental and Legislative Engagement – Demonstrated ability to interpret and respond to legislative and inter-governmental processes to ensure administrative strategies align with external requirements and governmental expectations. Negotiation and Consensus Building – Proven track record facilitating agreement among groups from various backgrounds, who may have differing or competing interests, to reach workable administrative, operational, or policy outcomes that support organizational goals. Risk and Emergency Management – Demonstrated ability to develop and implement comprehensive risk management, emergency preparedness, and business continuity frameworks to safeguard agency operations and assets. Administrative Policy and Program Oversight – Demonstrated proficiency in establishing, implementing, and evaluating administrative policies, procedures, and services to promote operational efficiency and organizational accountability. Budget Development and Fiscal Administration – Proven track record with developing and administering complex budgets to support strategic priorities and ensure effective financial stewardship. Records, Disclosure, and Content Management Systems – Demonstrated ability to oversee records governance and management, public disclosure processes, and enterprise electronic content management systems to ensure legal compliance, information integrity, and efficient enterprise-wide data practices to strengthen compliance and service delivery. Fleet, Facilities, and Environmental Operations Management – Demonstrated proficiency with overseeing agency vehicle fleet operations, construction and facility maintenance activities, and environmental reporting systems to ensure safe, compliant, cost-effective facility performance and accurate documentation that supports responsible resource stewardship. Desired Qualifications: Desired Education:  Involving a major study in public affairs or administration, business administration, environmental management, natural sciences, natural resources, environmental sciences, physical sciences, engineering, planning, or other related field. Desired Experience: Successful record of accomplishment working with state, city, county and federal government agencies. Serving as a supervisor. Leading or managing in a large organization or significant public resources. Working in, or collaborating with, state government. Managing high-risk or high-impact administrative functions. Working with or applying policy decisions and advising senior leaders on resource allocation and operational issues. Experience with regulatory or compliance issues such as torts or other legal frameworks. Desired Competencies: Strategic Change Management – Ability to guide complex organizational change to improve systems, processes, and agency-wide operations. Innovation and Process Improvement – Skilled with identifying opportunities to modernize administrative services and implement more efficient, cost-effective, or sustainable practices. Complex Project and Program Management – Ability to oversee major, multi-phase administrative or facilities projects to ensure they are delivered on time, within scope, and within budget. Data-Driven Management – Skilled with using operational data, metrics, and analytical tools to inform administrative decisions and resource planning. Legislative and Regulatory Awareness  – Skilled with interpreting evolving rules, legislation, and requirements to anticipate impacts on administrative services and adjust agency practices accordingly. If you are excited about this role and meet the required qualifications, we encourage you to apply. Desired qualifications reflect additional knowledge, skills, or experience that are nice to have but not required. Studies have shown that some applicants, especially women and people of color, are less likely to apply unless they meet every listed qualification. At the Department of Ecology, we are dedicated to building a diverse and authentic workplace centered in belonging, and we welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and unique perspectives. Supplemental Information Ecology does not use the E-Verify system; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov . Our Commitment to DEIR Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Respect (DEIR)  are core values central to Ecology's work. We strive to be a workplace where we are esteemed for sharing our authentic identities, while advancing our individual professional goals and collaborating to protect, preserve, and enhance the environment for current and future generations.  Diversity: We celebrate and appreciate diversity; our unique perspectives and abilities enrich us all and lead to innovative approaches and solutions. Equity:  We champion equity, recognizing that each of us need different things to thrive. Inclusion: We intentionally create and hold space so that we all have meaningful opportunities to participate and contribute to Ecology’s work. Respect:  We treat each other with respect and dignity, acknowledging the inherent worth of our diverse perspectives and lived experiences, even in times of uncertainty and disagreement. We believe that DEIR is both a goal and an action. We are on a journey, honoring our shared humanity and taking steps to demonstrate our commitment to a vision where each of us is heard, seen, and valued.  Application Process Ecology seeks diverse applicants: We view diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect through a broad lens including race, ethnicity, class, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, immigration status, military background, language, education, life experience, physical disability, neurodiversity, and intersectional identities. Qualified job seekers from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. How to Apply Click “Apply” at the top of this page. Complete the entire application, including full work history and responses to all supplemental questions, and attach: Cover letter, describing your interest in and qualifications for this position  Resume Because we base our selection on the information you provide, it is in your best interest to complete the application thoroughly. A resume will not substitute for the “work experience” section of the application or vice versa. Applications with blank fields or supplemental question responses with comments such as “see resume” may be considered incomplete.  For detailed application information, please visit our Recruitment website. Application Attestation: By submitting an application, you are affirming that the information contained in your application and on all attachments is complete and truthful. The state may verify this information, and any false or misleading answers may result in rejection of your application or dismissal if employed.   Need an Accommodation? If you need reasonable accommodation during the application and/or screening process, including this job announcement in an alternate format: Please contact us at 360-407-6186 or careers@ecy.wa.gov   If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 711 or 1-800-833-6384. Questions? For specific questions about the position location options, schedule, or duties, please contact Jake Barkman   at Jake.Barkman@ecy.wa.gov   If you need assistance applying for this job, are inquiring about the status of your application, would like to request the full position description, or have any other questions, please contact the Recruitment Team at  careers@ecy.wa.gov About the Administrative Services Division (ASD) The mission of the Administrative Services Division (ASD) is to support Ecology’s workforce in fulfilling its mission to protect Washington’s environment. ASD does this by maintaining Ecology’s physical assets, providing safe and secure workplaces, managing agency records, and ensuring timely public access to those records. In addition, ASD serves as the agency’s risk manager and provides emergency management and continuity of operations support. About the Department of Ecology As the State of Washington’s environmental protection agency, we are deeply committed to protecting, preserving, and enhancing Washington’s environment for current and future generations. Joining Ecology means becoming part of a team dedicated to protecting and sustaining healthy land, air, water, and climate in harmony with a strong economy. A career in public service at Ecology allows you to help solve some of the most challenging problems facing our state, while keeping your health and financial security a priority. We combine one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation with a strong commitment to life/work balance. We invest in our employees to create and sustain a working environment that encourages creative leadership, effective resource management, teamwork, professionalism, and accountability. Ecology employees may be eligible for the following: Medical/Dental/Vision for employee & dependent(s) , Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) , Vacation, Sick, and other Leave *, 11 Paid Holidays per year *, Public Service Loan Forgiveness , Tuition Waiver ,   Long Term Disability & Life Insurance , Deferred Compensation Programs , Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP) ,   Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA) , Employee Assistance Program , Commute Trip Reduction Incentive , Combined Fund Drive , SmartHealth * Click here for more information To learn more about Ecology, please visit our website , explore Working at Ecology , check out our Strategic Plan , and connect with us on LinkedIn , Facebook , Instagram , YouTube , or our blog .  Equal Opportunity Employer: The Washington State Department of Ecology is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, veterans, military spouses or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply. Note:  This recruitment may be used to fill other positions of the same job classification across the agency. 

Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen The Department of Ecology is hiring a SEPA and Environmental Regulation Specialist (Environmental Specialist 3)  within the Nuclear Waste Program . Location:  Richland Field Office in Richland, WA .  Upon hire, you must live within a commutable distance from the duty station. Schedule:  Initially, this position requires working in the office five days a week for onboarding and training. Flexible schedule options are available.  Upon successful completion of the probationary period, a primarily telework schedule may be established with supervisor approval, based on position needs. Schedules are dependent upon position needs and are subject to change. Application Timeline: Apply by October 14, 2026 Applications submitted after the date above may not be reviewed unless additional qualified applicants are needed. Duties Join the Nuclear Waste Program’s Compliance and Regulatory Assistance team as a State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) and Environmental Regulation Specialist, where your work will help protect human health and Washington’s environmental resources for future generations. In this role, you will be responsible for leading technical reviews and coordination under the SEPA, National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), Model Toxics Control Act (MTCA), and other environmental regulations. Working closely with managers, engineers, scientists, legal staff, and external partners, you will evaluate diverse and complex environmental projects, identify key issues, and ensure regulatory compliance that supports long-term protection of the environment. This position provides meaningful opportunities to expand your technical expertise while contributing to environmental planning, cleanup activities, and policy development across the Nuclear Waste Program. What you will do: Evaluate SEPA, NEPA, MTCA, and other regulatory notifications to identify environmental issues and ensure compliance with state and federal requirements.  Prepare, review, and coordinate SEPA documentation, including administrative records, Categorical Exclusions, Environmental Assessments, Environmental Impact Statements, Supplemental Analyses, and related technical materials. Manage, sort, and file all documents in established databases and record keeping systems. Provide technical and programmatic support for environmental planning and compliance activities under state and federal regulations, including performing technical analysis and review of impacts on the environment.  Collaborate with project managers, engineers, scientists, environmental specialists, legal staff, and agency staff to collect data, clarify regulatory requirements, and facilitate environmental reviews.  Apply strong communication, organizational, analytical, and project management skills to support multiple projects while ensuring regulatory compliance and schedule adherence.  Track project schedules, milestones, deliverables, and action items to ensure timely completion and effective coordination. Qualifications For detailed information on how we calculate experience and responses to other frequently asked questions, please visit our Recruitment website . Required Qualifications: Six (6) years of experience and/or education related to the duties of the position, which must include the following: Environmental Policy Experience  – Ability to apply knowledge of environmental policy frameworks, including SEPA, NEPA, and other laws and regulations, to evaluate proposals and guide staff and agencies to ensure consistent, accurate, and legally defensible environmental decision-making. Scientific and Technical Analysis  – Ability to apply scientific and regulatory analytical methods to evaluate documents to determine environmental impacts and support defensible agency decisions. Regulatory Interpretation  – Ability to interpret complex environmental regulations to provide accurate guidance to staff and external partners to ensure consistent regulatory compliance. Data Analysis –  Ability to analyze environmental data, records, and regulatory information to ensure accurate interpretation, support environmental impact assessments, and improve the quality and reliability of environmental decision-making. Conflict Resolution & Integration  – Ability to reconcile differing technical perspectives across programs to develop unified, scientifically supported recommendations that improve cross-program regulatory alignment. Project Coordination  – Ability to coordinate environmental review schedules and tasks to ensure timely completion of deliverables and compliance with program requirements. Software & Tools  – Ability to operate standard and specialized software (Microsoft Office Suite, Outlook, SharePoint, Adobe, environmental tracking systems) to produce accurate documentation, run queries, conduct analysis, and distribute information efficiently. Education  involving a major study in environmental, physical, or one of the natural sciences; environmental or natural science interdisciplinary studies; environmental planning, or closely related field. Examples of how to qualify: 6 years of experience. 5 years of experience AND 30-59 semester or 45-89 quarter college credits. 4 years of experience AND 60-89 semester or 90-134 quarter college credits (Associate’s degree). 3 years of experience AND 90-119 semester or 135-179 quarter college credits. 2 years of experience AND a Bachelor’s degree. Master’s degree or higher. Desired Qualifications: Workload Experience : Experience planning work and organizing documents. Regulatory Compliance : Ability to interpret state, federal, and local environmental regulations (e.g., SEPA, NEPA, MTCA, CERCLA, RCRA, ESA, CWA, CAA, AEA, NWPA, SDWA, TSCA, EPCRA) to ensure correct application of requirements and support for consistent, lawful environmental decision-making. Environmental and Resource Management : Knowledge of principles, practices, and methods of environmental or resource management and environmental pollution prevention and pollution control; methods and techniques of field sampling, testing, data gathering, basic research, and field investigations; technical report writing methods; and characteristics and health effects of pollutants. If you are excited about this role and meet the required qualifications, we encourage you to apply. Desired qualifications reflect additional knowledge, skills, or experience that are nice to have but not required. Studies have shown that some applicants, especially women and people of color, are less likely to apply unless they meet every listed qualification. At the Department of Ecology, we are dedicated to building a diverse and authentic workplace centered in belonging, and we welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and unique perspectives. Supplemental Information Ecology does not use the E-Verify system; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov . Application Process Ecology seeks diverse applicants: We view diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect through a broad lens including race, ethnicity, class, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, immigration status, military background, language, education, life experience, physical disability, neurodiversity, and intersectional identities. Qualified job seekers from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. How to Apply Click “Apply” at the top of this page. Complete the entire application, including full work history and responses to all supplemental questions, and attach: Cover letter, describing your interest in and qualifications for this position  Resume Because we base our selection on the information you provide, it is in your best interest to complete the application thoroughly. A resume will not substitute for the “work experience” section of the application or vice versa. Applications with blank fields or supplemental question responses with comments such as “see resume” may be considered incomplete.  For detailed application information, please visit our Recruitment website. Application Attestation: By submitting an application, you are affirming that the information contained in your application and on all attachments is complete and truthful. The state may verify this information, and any false or misleading answers may result in rejection of your application or dismissal if employed.   Need an Accommodation? If you need reasonable accommodation during the application and/or screening process, including this job announcement in an alternate format: Please contact us at 360-407-6186 or careers@ecy.wa.gov   If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 711 or 1-800-833-6384. Questions? For specific questions about the position location options, schedule, or duties, please contact Cole Caldwell at Cole.Caldwell@ecy.wa.gov If you need assistance applying for this job, are inquiring about the status of your application, would like to request the full position description, or have any other questions, please contact the Recruitment Team at careers@ecy.wa.gov About the Nuclear Waste Program The Nuclear Waste Program enforces regulatory compliance and oversees cleanup at the Hanford Site and other facilities managing nuclear waste statewide. It also promotes public involvement, congressional and federal contact, and interstate activities to enhance nuclear waste management, compliance, and cleanup of the Hanford Site.  About the Department of Ecology As the State of Washington’s environmental protection agency, we are deeply committed to protecting, preserving, and enhancing Washington’s environment for current and future generations. Joining Ecology means becoming part of a team dedicated to protecting and sustaining healthy land, air, water, and climate in harmony with a strong economy. A career in public service at Ecology allows you to help solve some of the most challenging problems facing our state, while keeping your health and financial security a priority. We combine one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation with a strong commitment to life/work balance. We invest in our employees to create and sustain a working environment that encourages creative leadership, effective resource management, teamwork, professionalism, and accountability. Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Respect (DEIR)  are core values central to Ecology's work. We strive to be a workplace where we are esteemed for sharing our authentic identities, while advancing our individual professional goals and collaborating to protect, preserve, and enhance the environment for current and future generations.  We believe that DEIR is both a goal and an action. We are on a journey, honoring our shared humanity and taking steps to demonstrate our commitment to a vision where each of us is heard, seen, and valued.  Ecology employees may be eligible for the following: Medical/Dental/Vision for employee & dependent(s) , Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) , Vacation, Sick, and other Leave *, 11 Paid Holidays per year *, Public Service Loan Forgiveness , Tuition Waiver ,   Long Term Disability & Life Insurance , Deferred Compensation Programs , Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP) ,   Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA) , Employee Assistance Program , Commute Trip Reduction Incentive , Combined Fund Drive , SmartHealth * Click here for more information To learn more about Ecology, please visit our website , explore Working at Ecology , check out our Strategic Plan , and connect with us on LinkedIn , Facebook , Instagram , YouTube , or our blog .  Equal Opportunity Employer: The Washington State Department of Ecology is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, veterans, military spouses or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply. Collective Bargaining: This is a position covered by a bargaining unit for which the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) is the exclusive representative.    Note:  This recruitment may be used to fill other positions of the same job classification across the agency. Once all the position(s) from the recruitment announcement are filled, the recruitment may only be used to fill additional open positions for the next sixty (60) days.

Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen The Department of Ecology is hiring a Permit Writer  (Environmental Specialist 4) within the  Water Resources Program. (WR) Location:  Headquarters Office in Lacey, WA . Upon hire, you must live within a commutable distance from the duty station. Schedule:  This position is eligible for telework and flexible schedule options. This position is required to be in the office 2 days each week, on Tuesday and Wednesday. Schedules are dependent upon position needs and are subject to change. Application Timeline:  Apply by October 11, 2026 Applications submitted after the date above may not be reviewed unless additional qualified applicants are needed. Duties In this role, you will have the exciting opportunity to implement Washington Water Law. You will be responsible for managing, processing, evaluating, and drafting support documents for water right decisions. This includes completing investigations by researching, collecting, and analyzing technical data and other information to support water right decisions. You will have the opportunity to identify issues and find possible solutions. You will get to interact with other government agencies, municipalities, and citizens that are looking for water for their projects or homes. There is also an opportunity to let your GIS and mapping skills shine. We are looking for people that want to make a difference, enjoy being part of a team, and are willing to learn. What you will do:  Recommend and process water right decisions. Conduct investigations and technical reviews to support decisions. Evaluate projects for feasibility, compliance with laws, regulations, and policies. Work with other local and state government agencies and Tribes regarding Washington water law. Respond to inquiries from water right applicants, their consultants, other agency staff and the public. Develop maps and locate water rights using GIS and web mapping tools and software. Qualifications For detailed information on how we calculate experience and responses to other frequently asked questions, please visit our Recruitment website . Required Qualifications: Nine years of combined education and/or experience performing related to the duties of the position, that includes the following: • Experience collecting, researching, and analyzing complex hydrologic or hydrogeologic data to support technical evaluations and regulatory decisions. • Ability to apply scientific, hydrologic, or hydrogeologic findings and/or principles to permitting related decisions. • Demonstrated skill in preparing technical written reports that summarize analyses, findings, and defensible recommendations for permitting decisions. • Ability to conduct and interpret field investigations under the oversight of a licensed hydrogeologist, including groundwater and surface water related analyses. • Experience reviewing proposed water related projects for legal, technical, and policy compliance. • Strong communication and customer service skills, with the ability to interact professionally with applicants, consultants, tribal governments, partner agencies, and the public. • Ability to manage and monitor complex permitting systems, for example water right authorizations. • Familiarity with GIS and mapping tools to analyze and document water rights information, and ability to serve as a technical resource on mapping related tasks. • Ability to mentor and support junior staff, collaborate on statewide workgroups, and independently manage workload priorities in a regulatory environment. Education: Involving a major study in environmental, physical, or one of the natural sciences; environmental or natural science interdisciplinary studies; environmental planning, or related studies. Examples of how to qualify: 9 years of experience. 8 years of experience AND 30-59 semester or 45-89 quarter college credits. 7 years of experience AND 60-89 semester or 90-134 quarter college credits (Associate’s degree). 6 years of experience AND 90-119 semester or 135-179 quarter college credits. 5 years of experience AND a Bachelor’s degree. 3 years of experience AND a Master’s degree. 2 years of experience AND a Ph.D. Desired Qualifications: Bachelor Degree in environmental, physical, or one of the natural sciences; environmental or natural science interdisciplinary studies; environmental planning, or an academic discipline related to the duties of the position.   Demonstrated professional experience implementing water resource management laws and rules Knowledge of Washington State water law, related rules, policies, and water rights permitting processes,  Experience in applied geology, hydrogeology, or related disciplines.   If you are excited about this role and meet the required qualifications, we encourage you to apply. Desired qualifications reflect additional knowledge, skills, or experience that are nice to have but not required. Studies have shown that some applicants, especially women and people of color, are less likely to apply unless they meet every listed qualification. At the Department of Ecology, we are dedicated to building a diverse and authentic workplace centered in belonging, and we welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and unique perspectives. Supplemental Information Ecology does not use the E-Verify system; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov . Our Commitment to DEIR Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Respect (DEIR)  are core values central to Ecology's work. We strive to be a workplace where we are esteemed for sharing our authentic identities, while advancing our individual professional goals and collaborating to protect, preserve, and enhance the environment for current and future generations.  Diversity: We celebrate and appreciate diversity; our unique perspectives and abilities enrich us all and lead to innovative approaches and solutions. Equity:  We champion equity, recognizing that each of us need different things to thrive. Inclusion: We intentionally create and hold space so that we all have meaningful opportunities to participate and contribute to Ecology’s work. Respect:  We treat each other with respect and dignity, acknowledging the inherent worth of our diverse perspectives and lived experiences, even in times of uncertainty and disagreement. We believe that DEIR is both a goal and an action. We are on a journey, honoring our shared humanity and taking steps to demonstrate our commitment to a vision where each of us is heard, seen, and valued.  Application Process Ecology seeks diverse applicants: We view diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect through a broad lens including race, ethnicity, class, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, immigration status, military background, language, education, life experience, physical disability, neurodiversity, and intersectional identities. Qualified job seekers from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. How to Apply Click “Apply” at the top of this page. Complete the entire application, including full work history and responses to all supplemental questions, and attach: Cover letter, describing your interest in and qualifications for this position  Resume Because we base our selection on the information you provide, it is in your best interest to complete the application thoroughly. A resume will not substitute for the “work experience” section of the application or vice versa. Applications with blank fields or supplemental question responses with comments such as “see resume” may be considered incomplete.  For detailed application information, please visit our Recruitment website. Application Attestation: By submitting an application, you are affirming that the information contained in your application and on all attachments is complete and truthful. The state may verify this information, and any false or misleading answers may result in rejection of your application or dismissal if employed.   Need an Accommodation? If you need reasonable accommodation during the application and/or screening process, including this job announcement in an alternate format: Please contact us at 360-407-6186 or careers@ecy.wa.gov   If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 711 or 1-800-833-6384. Questions? For specific questions about the position location options, schedule, or duties, please contact Melanie Redding at Melanie.Redding@ecy.wa.gov   If you need assistance applying for this job, are inquiring about the status of your application, would like to request the full position description, or have any other questions, please contact the Recruitment Team at careers@ecy.wa.gov Water Resources Program Mission:  We manage water resources to benefit all Washingtonians and to protect the natural environment for current and future generations. About the Department of Ecology As the State of Washington’s environmental protection agency, we are deeply committed to protecting, preserving, and enhancing Washington’s environment for current and future generations. Joining Ecology means becoming part of a team dedicated to protecting and sustaining healthy land, air, water, and climate in harmony with a strong economy. A career in public service at Ecology allows you to help solve some of the most challenging problems facing our state, while keeping your health and financial security a priority. We combine one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation with a strong commitment to life/work balance. We invest in our employees to create and sustain a working environment that encourages creative leadership, effective resource management, teamwork, professionalism, and accountability. Ecology employees may be eligible for the following: Medical/Dental/Vision for employee & dependent(s) , Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) , Vacation, Sick, and other Leave *, 11 Paid Holidays per year *, Public Service Loan Forgiveness , Tuition Waiver ,   Long Term Disability & Life Insurance , Deferred Compensation Programs , Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP) ,   Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA) , Employee Assistance Program , Commute Trip Reduction Incentive , Combined Fund Drive , SmartHealth * Click here for more information To learn more about Ecology, please visit our website , explore Working at Ecology , check out our Strategic Plan , and connect with us on LinkedIn , Facebook , Instagram , YouTube , or our blog .  Equal Opportunity Employer: The Washington State Department of Ecology is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, veterans, military spouses or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply. Collective Bargaining: This is a position covered by a bargaining unit for which the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) is the exclusive representative.    Note:  This recruitment may be used to fill other positions of the same job classification across the agency. Once all the position(s) from the recruitment announcement are filled, the recruitment may only be used to fill additional open positions for the next sixty (60) days.

Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen The Department of Ecology is hiring an Agency Rulemaking Lead and Governmental  Policy Analyst (Environmental Planner 5)  within the Rules and Accountability Section of the Governmental Relations Office. Location:  Headquarters Office in Lacey, WA . Upon hire, you must live within a commutable distance from the duty station. Schedule:  This position is eligible for telework and flexible schedule options. You may telework most of your work time, with required in-office staff meetings every other Thursday as well as other in-person meetings and activities as needed. Schedules are dependent upon position needs and are subject to change. Application Timeline: Apply by October 12, 2026 Applications submitted after the date above may not be reviewed unless additional qualified applicants are needed. Duties As the Agency Rulemaking Lead and Governmental Policy Analyst, you will provide essential oversight, direction, and project management for the agency’s rulemaking and hearing officer processes. You will serve as the program legislative lead, analyzing proposed legislation and policies, assessing impacts, and recommending effective implementation strategies while supporting staff and programs throughout the process. We are seeking someone who is strategic, adaptable, detail focused, can understand and explain complex processes, analyze laws and rules to guide agency action, and bring strong skills in policy implementation, project management, collaboration, problem-solving, and facilitation. Types of problems this position gets to solve: Developing policies and policy interpretations that marry complex legal, technical, and political dynamics. Managing agency-wide processes in a consistent way across programs that differ in structure and operational needs.  Maintaining a consistent and defensible rulemaking process for the agency. Meeting program hearing officer needs for public hearings and meetings. Interesting aspects of this position: Work in a fast-paced environment with all of Ecology's programs to support the development of rules and policies. Engage with staff on a wide variety of topics while collaborating with multiple teams. Challenging aspects of this position: Some travel and evening hours may be required. Presenting to large groups and facilitating complex meetings. What you will do: Provide oversight, guidance, and mentoring on the agency’s rulemaking process and hearing officers. Analyze legislation, policies, and projects with agency-wide impact. Serve as the Agency Hearings Officer, facilitating public hearings and meetings and certifying other agency staff through training and mentoring. Develop and implement new agency-wide policies or processes. Provide training and mentoring to staff on rulemaking, hearings, and related responsibilities. Advise and brief executive leadership on rulemaking and other key policy topics. Implement the agency's online commenting system. Serve as SharePoint co-administrator for the Rules and Accountability Section. Qualifications For detailed information on how we calculate experience and responses to other frequently asked questions, please visit our Recruitment website . Required Qualifications: Eleven (11) years of experience and/or education related to the duties of the position, which must include the following: Government and Rulemaking Knowledge  – Extensive working knowledge of state government, the rulemaking process, the Washington Administrative Procedures Act, and the legislative process. Rulemaking Coordination – Ability to guide and coordinate rulemaking activities to ensure legal compliance and alignment with agency leadership; understanding of steps in the process and ability to explain to others. Policy and Legislative Analysis  – Ability to analyze and interpret proposed laws and policies to provide accurate, clear information that identifies and supports agency actions. Training and Mentoring – Ability to teach and support staff in rulemaking and hearing officer responsibilities to strengthen agency capability. Project and Accountability Management  – Ability to plan and manage multiple projects, audits, and reform initiatives to help the agency meet accountability expectations. Regulatory Compliance  – Ability to interpret and apply legal requirements to ensure rulemaking and related work meet state standards. Process Documentation   – Ability to establish and document process steps in various formats. Hearing Officer Skills – Ability to conduct public hearings and apply agency procedures to ensure fair, well-organized, and professional processes. Education  involving a major study in land use, urban, regional, or environmental planning, public administration, natural resource planning, or a closely related field.  Examples of how to qualify: 11 years of experience. 10 years of experience AND 30-59 semester or 45-89 quarter college credits. 9 years of experience AND 60-89 semester or 90-134 quarter college credits (Associate’s degree). 8 years of experience AND 90-119 semester or 135-179 quarter college credits. 7 years of experience AND a Bachelor’s degree. 5 years of experience AND a Master’s degree. 4 years of experience AND a Ph.D. If you are excited about this role and meet the required qualifications, we encourage you to apply. Desired qualifications reflect additional knowledge, skills, or experience that are nice to have but not required. Studies have shown that some applicants, especially women and people of color, are less likely to apply unless they meet every listed qualification. At the Department of Ecology, we are dedicated to building a diverse and authentic workplace centered in belonging, and we welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and unique perspectives. Supplemental Information Ecology does not use the E-Verify system; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov . Our Commitment to DEIR Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Respect (DEIR)  are core values central to Ecology's work. We strive to be a workplace where we are esteemed for sharing our authentic identities, while advancing our individual professional goals and collaborating to protect, preserve, and enhance the environment for current and future generations.  Diversity: We celebrate and appreciate diversity; our unique perspectives and abilities enrich us all and lead to innovative approaches and solutions. Equity:  We champion equity, recognizing that each of us need different things to thrive. Inclusion: We intentionally create and hold space so that we all have meaningful opportunities to participate and contribute to Ecology’s work. Respect:  We treat each other with respect and dignity, acknowledging the inherent worth of our diverse perspectives and lived experiences, even in times of uncertainty and disagreement. We believe that DEIR is both a goal and an action. We are on a journey, honoring our shared humanity and taking steps to demonstrate our commitment to a vision where each of us is heard, seen, and valued.  Application Process Ecology seeks diverse applicants: We view diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect through a broad lens including race, ethnicity, class, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, immigration status, military background, language, education, life experience, physical disability, neurodiversity, and intersectional identities. Qualified job seekers from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. How to Apply Click “Apply” at the top of this page. Complete the entire application, including full work history and responses to all supplemental questions, and attach: Cover letter, describing your interest in and qualifications for this position  Resume Because we base our selection on the information you provide, it is in your best interest to complete the application thoroughly. A resume will not substitute for the “work experience” section of the application or vice versa. Applications with blank fields or supplemental question responses with comments such as “see resume” may be considered incomplete.  For detailed application information, please visit our Recruitment website. Application Attestation: By submitting an application, you are affirming that the information contained in your application and on all attachments is complete and truthful. The state may verify this information, and any false or misleading answers may result in rejection of your application or dismissal if employed.   Need an Accommodation? If you need reasonable accommodation during the application and/or screening process, including this job announcement in an alternate format: Please contact us at 360-407-6186 or careers@ecy.wa.gov   If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 711 or 1-800-833-6384. Questions? For specific questions about the position location options, schedule, or duties, please contact Bari Schreiner at Bari.Schreiner@ecy.wa.gov   If you need assistance applying for this job, are inquiring about the status of your application, would like to request the full position description, or have any other questions, please contact the Recruitment Team at careers@ecy.wa.gov About the Governmental Relations Office The Governmental Relations Office works closely with Ecology’s environmental programs and offices, and the Office of Equity and Environmental Justice to: Coordinate agency legislative activities, rulemaking, and appeals. Provide legislative and economic analysis for agency regulatory and policy initiatives. Support agency performance management including strategic planning, customer feedback, and continuous improvement initiatives. The Governmental Relations Office works collaboratively across the agency, providing opportunities to partner with staff from all programs. This role offers a unique perspective to learn about the work carried out across all Ecology’s environmental and administrative programs. You will engage at many different levels, from serving as a hearing officer for rulemaking, to analyzing proposed legislation, to helping establish or update agency policies, to supporting our agency public comment process. About the Department of Ecology As the State of Washington’s environmental protection agency, we are deeply committed to protecting, preserving, and enhancing Washington’s environment for current and future generations. Joining Ecology means becoming part of a team dedicated to protecting and sustaining healthy land, air, water, and climate in harmony with a strong economy. A career in public service at Ecology allows you to help solve some of the most challenging problems facing our state, while keeping your health and financial security a priority. We combine one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation with a strong commitment to life/work balance. We invest in our employees to create and sustain a working environment that encourages creative leadership, effective resource management, teamwork, professionalism, and accountability. Ecology employees may be eligible for the following: Medical/Dental/Vision for employee & dependent(s) , Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) , Vacation, Sick, and other Leave *, 11 Paid Holidays per year *, Public Service Loan Forgiveness , Tuition Waiver ,   Long Term Disability & Life Insurance , Deferred Compensation Programs , Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP) ,   Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA) , Employee Assistance Program , Commute Trip Reduction Incentive , Combined Fund Drive , SmartHealth * Click here for more information To learn more about Ecology, please visit our website , explore Working at Ecology , check out our Strategic Plan , and connect with us on LinkedIn , Facebook , Instagram , YouTube , or our blog .  Equal Opportunity Employer: The Washington State Department of Ecology is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, veterans, military spouses or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply. Collective Bargaining: This is a position covered by a bargaining unit for which the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) is the exclusive representative.    Note:  This recruitment may be used to fill other positions of the same job classification across the agency. Once all the position(s) from the recruitment announcement are filled, the recruitment may only be used to fill additional open positions for the next sixty (60) days.