Water Quality Compliance Specialist; Environmental Specialist

Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen

The Department of Ecology is hiring a Water Quality Compliance Specialist (Environmental Specialist
4) within the Water Quality Program.

• Northwest Region Office in Shoreline, WA.
• Salary includes a 5% premium pay due to the location in King County.
• Must live within a commutable distance from Shoreline upon hire.

• Eligible for telework and flexible schedule options.
• Minimum of one day per week required in the office.
• Requires routine field work throughout the NW Region counties multiple times a week.
• Schedules may change based on position needs.

• Applications must be received by March 15, 2026.
• The position will remain open until filled. The agency reserves the right to hire at any time after applications begin. Late applications may not be considered.

As an experienced stormwater inspector, you will conduct compliance inspections at industrial facilities, hatcheries, wineries, and bridge and ferry maintenance projects. You will ensure sites comply with their permits, protect Puget Sound water quality, and reduce toxic contaminants affecting the southern resident orca.

• Plan and lead compliance inspections for a variety of industrial sites and hatcheries; document inspections.
• Monitor and evaluate compliance by reviewing data reports, annual reports, and other required submittals.
• Review pollution prevention plans, best management practices, and provide technical assistance to prevent water pollution.
• Investigate non‑compliance, conduct informal enforcement, and compose draft recommendations for formal enforcement actions.
• Coordinate with permit implementation teams to maintain state‑wide consistency and technical expertise.

• Nine (9) years of experience and/or education in environmental-based work related to the essential functions and key activities of the position.
• Regulatory interpretation & application.
• Compliance assessment & inspection.
• Investigation & evidence development.
• Independent work & task management.
• Demonstrated competence in these skill sets:
• Technical communication & documentation.
• Critical/analytical thinking and problem‑solving.
• Reviewing and writing scientific and regulatory documents.
• Field work, research, studies, and/or scientific data analysis.
• Education in environmental, physical, or natural sciences; environmental planning; or a closely related field.

• 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.

• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license.

• Familiarity with stormwater permits, stormwater management techniques, guidance manuals, and/or regulatory inspections.
• Demonstrated ability to understand and implement state and federal water pollution laws and regulations, permit programs, and policies.

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
.

Ecology seeks diverse applicants. Qualified job seekers from all backgrounds are encouraged 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 and qualifications.
• Resume.

If you need reasonable accommodation during the application or screening process, contact:

• 360‑407‑6186 or careers.gov
• If you are deaf or hard of hearing, call Washington Relay Service at 711 or 1‑800‑833‑6384.

• For specific questions about the position, contact Amy Jankowiak kowiak.gov.
• For assistance applying, inquiries about application status, requests for the full position description, or other questions, contact the Recruitment Team…