Evaporator Regulatory Lead; Environmental Specialist

Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen

The Department of Ecology is hiring a 242-A Evaporator Regulatory Lead (Environmental Specialist
4) within the Tank Waste Treatment Section of the Nuclear Waste Program.

• Richland Field Office in Richland, WA.
• Upon hire, you must live within a commutable distance from the duty station.

• This position is eligible for telework and flexible schedule options.
• A minimum of one in-office day per week and two site visits per month are required.
• Schedules are dependent upon position needs and are subject to change.

• Apply by March 23, 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.

In this role, you will oversee permitting and regulatory compliance for the 242-A Evaporator, a key system for handling high-level and highly toxic waste at the Hanford Site. You will lead a team of engineers and chemists, review technical documents, develop permit requirements, and collaborate directly with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and other agencies. You will address complex environmental challenges, guide regulatory decisions, and play a central role in the cleanup of one of the nation’s most challenging nuclear waste sites.

This position is ideal for someone with strong regulatory expertise, experience in technical review and permitting, and the ability to coordinate across multiple organizations. You will gain valuable experience in nuclear waste management, environmental compliance, and public engagement while supporting critical regulatory work that protects Washington’s environment now and for the future.

• Oversee the development, review, and compliance of the 242-A Evaporator permit to ensure adherence to state and federal regulations, including RCRA, air, and hazardous waste requirements.
• Review technical documents and operational data to develop regulatory strategies, alternative approaches, and permit conditions.
• Negotiate permit requirements, cleanup conditions, and variance requests with DOE, contractors, EPA, and other agencies, ensuring alignment with the Tri-Party Agreement.
• Lead and coordinate a team of engineers and chemists, providing guidance on technical reviews, off-normal events, and compliance issues.
• Conduct site visits and field oversight to verify compliance with permits and environmental regulations.
• Respond to public comments and present technical information clearly in meetings and briefings.
• Provide regulatory expertise and testimony as needed for permit decisions or related legal proceedings.
• Coordinate with the Double-Shell Tank Systems regulatory team to support integrated coverage of connected waste systems.

For detailed information on how we calculate experience and responses to other frequently asked questions, please visit the Recruitment website.

9 (nine) years of experience and/or education as described below:

• Performing environmental-based work OR work related to the duties of the position that includes at least two of the following:
• Reviewing and interpreting technical or regulatory documents, reports, or applications for compliance, accuracy, and completeness.
• Developing, implementing, or overseeing technical procedures, policies, or permits.
• Coordinating multi-disciplinary teams or technical specialists to achieve compliance and/or complete project goals.
• Communicating, presenting, or negotiating technical or regulatory information to external agencies, contractors, or the public.
• Experience must include demonstrated competence in the following skill sets:
• Regulatory Knowledge and Application: Ability to interpret and apply environmental laws, regulations, and policies to ensure compliance and support informed, defensible decision-making.
• Permit Development, Negotiation, and Oversight: Ability to develop, review, negotiate, and manage permits to ensure regulated activities meet all applicable requirements.
• Technical Guidance: Ability to lead, mentor, and coordinate technical…