Hope House Colorado
Position Summary:
Hope House Colorado (HHC) is hiring an assistant director (AD) who is responsible for supporting the leading of the Early Learning Center (ELC) for Hope House Colorado. The AD is responsible for supervising and leading staff and assisting the director of childhood education (DCE) in building a culture that exemplifies Hope House Core Values, implementation of programming that aligns with our educational philosophy and principles, running the summer program, managing parent communication, and ensuring compliance with Colorado licensing and Colorado Shines standards.
What you’ll be doing:
Provide supervision for operations assistant, summer camp staff, ELC teachers and ELC assistant teachers
Oversee daily operations of the ELC in partnership with DCE, including programming, staff and quality of care
Lead classroom scheduling, coverage and support to ensure child/staff ratio for all classrooms and compliance with childcare regulations
Maintain accurate teacher and child records needed for licensing and Colorado Shines
Assist the DCE in ensuring compliance with Colorado licensing standards and state and federal laws to maintain license, Colorado Department of Health and Environment, and local fire department regulations
Lead and implement professional learning, lesson planning, classroom fidelity checks, and coaching for Creative Curriculum, Orange (Bible) Curriculum and Social-Emotional strategies as appropriate
Lead and implement Teaching Strategies Gold Assessment System professional learning, assessment schedule, management of TS Gold System, teaching coaching to utilize data to make decisions to increase child outcomes
Direct annual professional learning for ELC (required and based on needs of ELC), including identifying needs, scheduling, budgeting and managing presenters
Assist the DCE in the compliance and quality of the ELC to reach and maintain a Colorado Shine 5-star rating (learning environment, leadership management and administrative plans, family engagement and child health program)
Promoting Hope House Colorado’s Core Values throughout the organization and external relationships
We want to hear from you if…
You are larger center certified (required)
You possess Infant Nursery Program Supervisor credential or willing to obtain within 6 months of hire (required)
You have experience in early childhood setting serving infants, toddlers and/or preschoolers (required)
You have two years of experience in a supervisory role, leading and managing staff (required)
You are familiar with ELC licensing regulations (required)
You are knowledgeable of early childhood education, child development principles and practices, and early intervention best practices (preferred)
You have a working knowledge of Teaching Strategies Gold and Creative Curriculum (preferred)
You have knowledge and experience in the implementation of trauma informed care practices as it relates to both children and adolescents (preferred)
Who we are:
Hope House Colorado is committed to empowering teen moms, changing the future for two generations! We are a future-thinking organization, striving to be experts in our field. We invest in each employee, providing opportunities to pursue individual passions, gifts and strengths. Our staff is a unified team, pursuing excellence in all we do. We serve with integrity, humility and respect for one another, in an environment that combines professionalism with fun, humor and even a little bit of silliness each day!
Hope House Colorado Early Learning Center Educational Philosophy:
In support of our mission and vision, the Hope House Colorado Early Learning Center believes all children are a gift from God and are created in His image. This belief is at the heart of our philosophy and desire to nurture the whole child in a play-based learning environment that is a fun, engaging, and nurturing place of belonging for children of Hope House teen moms and staff, ranging in ages from 6 weeks to 5 years old. We believe that learning is best supported when built on a strong social-emotional foundation in an environment where children feel seen, heard, loved, and valued and ultimately free to be who God created them to be. We believe in a family centered approach, working in partnership with families to help children build a strong, secure, social-emotional foundation allowing them to realize their full potential.
Salary Range
$52,000 - $64,000
Benefits
Employees who are regularly scheduled to work 24 hours per week or more are eligible for the below benefits
Health Benefits : Employees may elect medical, dental, vision & life insurance plans.
Simple IRA : Employees may choose to make salary reduction contributions through HHC’s Simple IRA plan and HHC will match the employee’s contribution up to a maximum of 3% of the employee’s annual salary.
Vacation : Upon hire, employees earn 4.62 hours of vacation per paycheck up to 120 hours (3 weeks) in a year. Accruals are adjusted to increase vacation earned per hours worked based on length of employment with HHC.
Holidays : HHC observes twelve (12) holidays throughout the year. Salaried employees are paid for these holidays according to the nationally recognized observation day for each holiday. In addition, salaried employees are currently gifted the week of Christmas off, to be scheduled at the discretion of their supervisor.
Sick Leave : HHC provides eligible employees with Paid Sick and Safe Leave (PSSL) and Public Health Emergency Leave (PHEL) in accordance with the requirements of Colorado's Healthy Families and Workplaces Act (HFWA).
Mental Health Days: Employees are given two (2) mental health days per year to use at their discretion.
Employer Based Childcare: Full-time (40-hours per week or more) Hope House Colorado employees are eligible to enroll their children in the Hope House Colorado Early Learning Center. Exceptions may be considered for part-time staff and part-time childcare needs on a case-by-case basis.
Hope House Colorado is a qualifying employer for the federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program! HHC provides employees with free assistance navigating the PSLF program to submit their federal student loans for forgiveness
Job Application Deadline
May 21, 2026
Position Summary:
Hope House Colorado (HHC) is hiring an assistant director (AD) who is responsible for supporting the leading of the Early Learning Center (ELC) for Hope House Colorado. The AD is responsible for supervising and leading staff and assisting the director of childhood education (DCE) in building a culture that exemplifies Hope House Core Values, implementation of programming that aligns with our educational philosophy and principles, running the summer program, managing parent communication, and ensuring compliance with Colorado licensing and Colorado Shines standards.
What you’ll be doing:
Provide supervision for operations assistant, summer camp staff, ELC teachers and ELC assistant teachers
Oversee daily operations of the ELC in partnership with DCE, including programming, staff and quality of care
Lead classroom scheduling, coverage and support to ensure child/staff ratio for all classrooms and compliance with childcare regulations
Maintain accurate teacher and child records needed for licensing and Colorado Shines
Assist the DCE in ensuring compliance with Colorado licensing standards and state and federal laws to maintain license, Colorado Department of Health and Environment, and local fire department regulations
Lead and implement professional learning, lesson planning, classroom fidelity checks, and coaching for Creative Curriculum, Orange (Bible) Curriculum and Social-Emotional strategies as appropriate
Lead and implement Teaching Strategies Gold Assessment System professional learning, assessment schedule, management of TS Gold System, teaching coaching to utilize data to make decisions to increase child outcomes
Direct annual professional learning for ELC (required and based on needs of ELC), including identifying needs, scheduling, budgeting and managing presenters
Assist the DCE in the compliance and quality of the ELC to reach and maintain a Colorado Shine 5-star rating (learning environment, leadership management and administrative plans, family engagement and child health program)
Promoting Hope House Colorado’s Core Values throughout the organization and external relationships
We want to hear from you if…
You are larger center certified (required)
You possess Infant Nursery Program Supervisor credential or willing to obtain within 6 months of hire (required)
You have experience in early childhood setting serving infants, toddlers and/or preschoolers (required)
You have two years of experience in a supervisory role, leading and managing staff (required)
You are familiar with ELC licensing regulations (required)
You are knowledgeable of early childhood education, child development principles and practices, and early intervention best practices (preferred)
You have a working knowledge of Teaching Strategies Gold and Creative Curriculum (preferred)
You have knowledge and experience in the implementation of trauma informed care practices as it relates to both children and adolescents (preferred)
Who we are:
Hope House Colorado is committed to empowering teen moms, changing the future for two generations! We are a future-thinking organization, striving to be experts in our field. We invest in each employee, providing opportunities to pursue individual passions, gifts and strengths. Our staff is a unified team, pursuing excellence in all we do. We serve with integrity, humility and respect for one another, in an environment that combines professionalism with fun, humor and even a little bit of silliness each day!
Hope House Colorado Early Learning Center Educational Philosophy:
In support of our mission and vision, the Hope House Colorado Early Learning Center believes all children are a gift from God and are created in His image. This belief is at the heart of our philosophy and desire to nurture the whole child in a play-based learning environment that is a fun, engaging, and nurturing place of belonging for children of Hope House teen moms and staff, ranging in ages from 6 weeks to 5 years old. We believe that learning is best supported when built on a strong social-emotional foundation in an environment where children feel seen, heard, loved, and valued and ultimately free to be who God created them to be. We believe in a family centered approach, working in partnership with families to help children build a strong, secure, social-emotional foundation allowing them to realize their full potential.
Salary Range
$52,000 - $64,000
Benefits
Employees who are regularly scheduled to work 24 hours per week or more are eligible for the below benefits
Health Benefits : Employees may elect medical, dental, vision & life insurance plans.
Simple IRA : Employees may choose to make salary reduction contributions through HHC’s Simple IRA plan and HHC will match the employee’s contribution up to a maximum of 3% of the employee’s annual salary.
Vacation : Upon hire, employees earn 4.62 hours of vacation per paycheck up to 120 hours (3 weeks) in a year. Accruals are adjusted to increase vacation earned per hours worked based on length of employment with HHC.
Holidays : HHC observes twelve (12) holidays throughout the year. Salaried employees are paid for these holidays according to the nationally recognized observation day for each holiday. In addition, salaried employees are currently gifted the week of Christmas off, to be scheduled at the discretion of their supervisor.
Sick Leave : HHC provides eligible employees with Paid Sick and Safe Leave (PSSL) and Public Health Emergency Leave (PHEL) in accordance with the requirements of Colorado's Healthy Families and Workplaces Act (HFWA).
Mental Health Days: Employees are given two (2) mental health days per year to use at their discretion.
Employer Based Childcare: Full-time (40-hours per week or more) Hope House Colorado employees are eligible to enroll their children in the Hope House Colorado Early Learning Center. Exceptions may be considered for part-time staff and part-time childcare needs on a case-by-case basis.
Hope House Colorado is a qualifying employer for the federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program! HHC provides employees with free assistance navigating the PSLF program to submit their federal student loans for forgiveness
Job Application Deadline
May 21, 2026
Washington State Department of Ecology
Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen
The Department of Ecology is hiring a Shoreland, Wetland, Aquatic Resource Specialist (Environmental Specialist 4 ) within the Shorelands & Environmental Assistance (SEA) 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.
This position requires frequent fieldwork.
Schedules are dependent upon onboarding schedules, position needs and are subject to change.
Application Timeline:
Apply by May 26, 2026
This position will remain open until filled. The agency reserves the right to make a hire at any time after application review begins. Applications received after the date above may not be considered.
Duties
This Shoreland, Wetland, and Aquatic Resource Specialist position serves as the Eastern Region’s senior technical expert for evaluating projects that affect wetlands, shorelands, and state-regulated aquatic resources. In this role, you will independently apply Section 401 of the Clean Water Act, the Water Pollution Control Act (RCW 90.48), and the Shoreline Management Act (SMA) to ensure consistent, scientifically sound, and legally defensible project decisions. You will guide local governments, applicants, and partner agencies on complex regulatory requirements; conduct advanced field assessments; and lead enforcement for wetlands and RCW 90.48 violations across 13 counties.
You will also coordinate state-level review of shoreline and aquatic resource proposals, analyze SEPA/NEPA documents, and negotiate project modifications to achieve regulatory compliance and environmental protection. As the region’s senior specialist, you will collaborate with tribes, federal agencies, local governments, and the Attorney General’s Office to resolve conflicts, support enforcement actions, and ensure effective, coordinated implementation of statewide policies.
What you will do:
• Conduct senior-level review of wetland delineations, functional assessments, mitigation plans, ordinary high water mark ( OHWM) determinations, and shoreline/aquatic resource proposals for accuracy and regulatory compliance. • Coordinate Ecology’s permitting response for Section 401 Water Quality Certifications and for projects regulated under RCW 90.48 and the Shoreline Management Act. • Lead investigations and enforcement actions for wetlands and state-regulated aquatic resource violations, preparing documentation and representing Ecology in hearings and legal proceedings. • Provide expert technical assistance to local governments implementing Critical Areas Ordinances and Shoreline Master Programs, ensuring consistent interpretation and application of regulations. • Review SEPA/NEPA documents and provide clear, well-supported comments on environmental impacts related to wetlands, water quality, and shorelines. • Collaborate with applicants, tribes, federal and state agencies, and internal program staff to resolve technical issues and negotiate project changes that meet environmental and legal requirements. • Maintain accurate project documentation in SPTS, ERTS, SEPA, and related databases, supporting compliance tracking and agency transparency.
Qualifications
For detailed information on how we calculate experience, please visit our Recruitment website .
Required Qualifications:
Nine (9) years of experience and/or education as described below:
Experience: professional level experience in wetland, riparian, and aquatic resource evaluation; shoreline and critical areas permitting; environmental compliance and enforcement; and providing technical assistance to local governments, applicants, and partner agencies.
Experience mentioned above must include demonstrated competencies in the following skill sets---
1. Wetland & Aquatic Resource Evaluation Demonstrates the ability to accurately interpret and validate wetland delineations, rating forms, functional assessments, and mitigation proposals; applies ecological principles to evaluate resource conditions and project impacts.
2. Regulatory Permit Analysis
Applies regulatory knowledge and analytical skills to determine whether proposals comply with Section 401, RCW 90.48, the Shoreline Management Act, and local Critical Areas Ordinances; evaluates permit applications for completeness, accuracy, and technical adequacy.
3. Shoreline Boundary & Field Assessment Performs independent field investigations to identify the ordinary high water mark (OHWM), assess shoreline and wetland site conditions, and collect reliable field data to support regulatory determinations and technical recommendations.
4. Compliance Assessment & Guidance Identifies potential non-compliance with environmental regulations, gathers facts, evaluates evidence, and communicates clear, actionable guidance to applicants, landowners, and local governments to support voluntary compliance and corrective measures.
5. Enforcement Case Support Prepares thorough documentation for enforcement actions, contributes to case strategy, and supports legal processes by providing technical expertise, clear written records, and effective communication with the Attorney General’s Office and other partners.
6. Interagency & Environmental Review Coordination Collaborates effectively with local governments, state and federal agencies, tribes, and applicants to support project review; analyzes environmental documents (SEPA/NEPA) and develops well-reasoned, evidence-based comments on potential impacts.
Education: involving major study in environmental, physical, or one of the natural sciences, environmental planning or other closely allied scientific 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 or higher.
Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment:
Must possess and maintain a valid driver license.
Willingness and ability to occasionally work in excess of 40 hours per week and travel throughout the Eastern Region and less frequently across the state.
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 Jeremy Sikes at Jeremy.Sikes@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 Shorelands and Environmental Assistance (SEA) Program
The mission of the SEA Program is to create community conservation partnerships to protect and restore our shorelands, wetlands, and floodplains.
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 (Download PDF reader) , 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 Shoreland, Wetland, Aquatic Resource Specialist (Environmental Specialist 4 ) within the Shorelands & Environmental Assistance (SEA) 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.
This position requires frequent fieldwork.
Schedules are dependent upon onboarding schedules, position needs and are subject to change.
Application Timeline:
Apply by May 26, 2026
This position will remain open until filled. The agency reserves the right to make a hire at any time after application review begins. Applications received after the date above may not be considered.
Duties
This Shoreland, Wetland, and Aquatic Resource Specialist position serves as the Eastern Region’s senior technical expert for evaluating projects that affect wetlands, shorelands, and state-regulated aquatic resources. In this role, you will independently apply Section 401 of the Clean Water Act, the Water Pollution Control Act (RCW 90.48), and the Shoreline Management Act (SMA) to ensure consistent, scientifically sound, and legally defensible project decisions. You will guide local governments, applicants, and partner agencies on complex regulatory requirements; conduct advanced field assessments; and lead enforcement for wetlands and RCW 90.48 violations across 13 counties.
You will also coordinate state-level review of shoreline and aquatic resource proposals, analyze SEPA/NEPA documents, and negotiate project modifications to achieve regulatory compliance and environmental protection. As the region’s senior specialist, you will collaborate with tribes, federal agencies, local governments, and the Attorney General’s Office to resolve conflicts, support enforcement actions, and ensure effective, coordinated implementation of statewide policies.
What you will do:
• Conduct senior-level review of wetland delineations, functional assessments, mitigation plans, ordinary high water mark ( OHWM) determinations, and shoreline/aquatic resource proposals for accuracy and regulatory compliance. • Coordinate Ecology’s permitting response for Section 401 Water Quality Certifications and for projects regulated under RCW 90.48 and the Shoreline Management Act. • Lead investigations and enforcement actions for wetlands and state-regulated aquatic resource violations, preparing documentation and representing Ecology in hearings and legal proceedings. • Provide expert technical assistance to local governments implementing Critical Areas Ordinances and Shoreline Master Programs, ensuring consistent interpretation and application of regulations. • Review SEPA/NEPA documents and provide clear, well-supported comments on environmental impacts related to wetlands, water quality, and shorelines. • Collaborate with applicants, tribes, federal and state agencies, and internal program staff to resolve technical issues and negotiate project changes that meet environmental and legal requirements. • Maintain accurate project documentation in SPTS, ERTS, SEPA, and related databases, supporting compliance tracking and agency transparency.
Qualifications
For detailed information on how we calculate experience, please visit our Recruitment website .
Required Qualifications:
Nine (9) years of experience and/or education as described below:
Experience: professional level experience in wetland, riparian, and aquatic resource evaluation; shoreline and critical areas permitting; environmental compliance and enforcement; and providing technical assistance to local governments, applicants, and partner agencies.
Experience mentioned above must include demonstrated competencies in the following skill sets---
1. Wetland & Aquatic Resource Evaluation Demonstrates the ability to accurately interpret and validate wetland delineations, rating forms, functional assessments, and mitigation proposals; applies ecological principles to evaluate resource conditions and project impacts.
2. Regulatory Permit Analysis
Applies regulatory knowledge and analytical skills to determine whether proposals comply with Section 401, RCW 90.48, the Shoreline Management Act, and local Critical Areas Ordinances; evaluates permit applications for completeness, accuracy, and technical adequacy.
3. Shoreline Boundary & Field Assessment Performs independent field investigations to identify the ordinary high water mark (OHWM), assess shoreline and wetland site conditions, and collect reliable field data to support regulatory determinations and technical recommendations.
4. Compliance Assessment & Guidance Identifies potential non-compliance with environmental regulations, gathers facts, evaluates evidence, and communicates clear, actionable guidance to applicants, landowners, and local governments to support voluntary compliance and corrective measures.
5. Enforcement Case Support Prepares thorough documentation for enforcement actions, contributes to case strategy, and supports legal processes by providing technical expertise, clear written records, and effective communication with the Attorney General’s Office and other partners.
6. Interagency & Environmental Review Coordination Collaborates effectively with local governments, state and federal agencies, tribes, and applicants to support project review; analyzes environmental documents (SEPA/NEPA) and develops well-reasoned, evidence-based comments on potential impacts.
Education: involving major study in environmental, physical, or one of the natural sciences, environmental planning or other closely allied scientific 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 or higher.
Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment:
Must possess and maintain a valid driver license.
Willingness and ability to occasionally work in excess of 40 hours per week and travel throughout the Eastern Region and less frequently across the state.
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 Jeremy Sikes at Jeremy.Sikes@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 Shorelands and Environmental Assistance (SEA) Program
The mission of the SEA Program is to create community conservation partnerships to protect and restore our shorelands, wetlands, and floodplains.
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 (Download PDF reader) , 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.
Washington State Department of Ecology
Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen
The Department of Ecology is hiring a Senior Municipal Stormwater Permit Writer (Environmental Planner 4) 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 May 26, 2026
This position will remain open until filled. The agency reserves the right to make a hire at any time after application review begins. Applications received after the date above may not be considered.
Duties
This is an exciting opportunity to be at the forefront of protecting Washington’s state waters. You will be responsible for stormwater permitting for the state’s largest cities, counties, and public entities including ports. You will work closely with a dedicated team of planners, engineers, scientists, and managers to write legally defensible, science-backed municipal stormwater permits. This is your opportunity to engage with external partners through committees, workgroups, and conferences.
What you will do:
Develops, plans and coordinates the process of updating and writing the Phase 1 municipal stormwater permit with partner engagement.
Assist with the development and writing of the Phase II stormwater permits and the WSDOT permit.
Works with regional planners to implement the MS4 permits including audits, attending jurisdictional planning meetings, and developing programmatic approaches to stormwater treatment.
Establishes and coordinates partner groups that provide recommendations for Department policy decisions and permitting actions.
Drive manual equivalency efforts to ensure Phase I manuals are equivalent to SWMMs.
Run the departmental permit modification workshops to provide information and opportunities for public comment to partners and permittees.
Works with the Attorney General’s office as a technical expert on permit appeals as needed.
Provides independent, expert guidance on programs, policies, and regulations, in coordination with regional staff, to assist local government planning staff with Stormwater programs consistent with permit requirements.
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 as described below:
Experience in land use, urban, regional, environmental, or natural resource planning, and/or program development, landscape architecture, geography, land use or environmental law, public administration with an environmental emphasis, or closely related experience.
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:
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 or above.
1 year of experience as an Environmental Planner 3, at the Department of Ecology .
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 Katie Rathmell at Katie.Rathmell@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 protect and restore Washington’s waters to sustain healthy watersheds and communities. Our work ensures that state waters benefit uses including recreational and business activities, supplies for clean drinking water, and the protection of fish, shellfish, wildlife and public health. The Water Quality Program believes in a healthy work/life balance and is committed to growth and development of staff.
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 Senior Municipal Stormwater Permit Writer (Environmental Planner 4) 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 May 26, 2026
This position will remain open until filled. The agency reserves the right to make a hire at any time after application review begins. Applications received after the date above may not be considered.
Duties
This is an exciting opportunity to be at the forefront of protecting Washington’s state waters. You will be responsible for stormwater permitting for the state’s largest cities, counties, and public entities including ports. You will work closely with a dedicated team of planners, engineers, scientists, and managers to write legally defensible, science-backed municipal stormwater permits. This is your opportunity to engage with external partners through committees, workgroups, and conferences.
What you will do:
Develops, plans and coordinates the process of updating and writing the Phase 1 municipal stormwater permit with partner engagement.
Assist with the development and writing of the Phase II stormwater permits and the WSDOT permit.
Works with regional planners to implement the MS4 permits including audits, attending jurisdictional planning meetings, and developing programmatic approaches to stormwater treatment.
Establishes and coordinates partner groups that provide recommendations for Department policy decisions and permitting actions.
Drive manual equivalency efforts to ensure Phase I manuals are equivalent to SWMMs.
Run the departmental permit modification workshops to provide information and opportunities for public comment to partners and permittees.
Works with the Attorney General’s office as a technical expert on permit appeals as needed.
Provides independent, expert guidance on programs, policies, and regulations, in coordination with regional staff, to assist local government planning staff with Stormwater programs consistent with permit requirements.
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 as described below:
Experience in land use, urban, regional, environmental, or natural resource planning, and/or program development, landscape architecture, geography, land use or environmental law, public administration with an environmental emphasis, or closely related experience.
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:
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 or above.
1 year of experience as an Environmental Planner 3, at the Department of Ecology .
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 Katie Rathmell at Katie.Rathmell@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 protect and restore Washington’s waters to sustain healthy watersheds and communities. Our work ensures that state waters benefit uses including recreational and business activities, supplies for clean drinking water, and the protection of fish, shellfish, wildlife and public health. The Water Quality Program believes in a healthy work/life balance and is committed to growth and development of staff.
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.
