Nonpoint Source Water Quality and Shellfish Specialist (Environmental Specialist 3)

The Nonpoint Source Water Quality and Shellfish Specialist position at the Department of Ecology involves implementing water quality improvement plans in priority watersheds, addressing pollution from agricultural activities. Responsibilities include conducting evaluations, providing technical assistance, coordinating initiatives, and ensuring compliance with water quality laws. Candidates should have experience in environmental analysis or planning. The role supports the agency's mission to protect Washington's environment.
About the position

The Nonpoint Source Water Quality and Shellfish Specialist (Environmental Specialist 3) position at the Department of Ecology focuses on implementing water quality improvement plans in priority watersheds, particularly addressing pollution from agricultural and livestock activities. This role offers valuable experience in nonpoint source pollution control, environmental compliance, and water quality assessment, preparing candidates for future advancement in the environmental sector. The position supports the agency's mission to protect and enhance Washington's environment for current and future generations.

Responsibilities
• Conduct watershed evaluations and implement water quality improvement plans in priority watersheds.
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• Provide technical assistance to landowners to help them implement and achieve compliance with water quality laws.
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• Coordinate with multiple partners to execute water quality improvement initiatives and ensure alignment with overall goals.
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• Utilize knowledge of agricultural Best Management Practices to address water quality impairments resulting from agricultural and livestock activities.
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• Investigate and resolve pollution issues identified through watershed assessments or reported complaints, focusing on compliance with Total Maximum Daily Load and water quality standards.
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• Provide technical consultation to agency staff, local, state, federal, and Tribal entities regarding water quality improvement strategies and compliance assurance.
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• Issue enforcement actions, as necessary, to address noncompliance with water quality laws and regulations, while encouraging voluntary compliance and cooperation.

Requirements
• A total of 6 years of experience and/or education in environmental analysis, control, or planning.
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• Experience in environmental analysis or control or environmental planning.
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• Education involving a major study in environmental, physical, or one of the natural sciences, environmental planning or other allied field.
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• Must possess and maintain a valid state driver's license.

Nice-to-haves
• Facilitating complicated discussions to reach a common goal
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• Watershed assessment work, may include water quality monitoring
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• Understanding polluted runoff risks from agriculture

Benefits
• Medical/Dental/Vision for employee & dependent(s)
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• Public Employees Retirement System (PERS)
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• Vacation, Sick, and other Leave
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• 11 Paid Holidays per year
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• Public Service Loan Forgiveness
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• Tuition Waiver
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• Long Term Disability & Life Insurance
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• Deferred Compensation Programs
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• Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP)
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• Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA)
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• Employee Assistance Program
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• Commute Trip Reduction Incentives
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• Combined Fund Drive
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• SmartHealth