Construction Stormwater Inspector (Environmental Specialist 3)
The Department of Ecology is recruiting for a Construction Stormwater Inspector (Environmental Specialist 3) in the Water Quality Program in our Southwest Regional Office in Lacey, WA.
This position plays a key role in reducing the impacts of stormwater pollution to our State's waters. Over 1,000 construction sites in the Southwest Region are covered by the Construction Stormwater General Permit. This position uses technical assistance and compliance actions to ensure dischargers are in compliance with state water quality requirements so impacts of water pollution are reduced.
We are looking for applicants who have a passion for protecting human health and the environment, are able to successfully articulate complex environmental requirements to a variety of audiences, are willing to engage in contentious discussions, and have the ability to diffuse conflict when necessary. Successful candidates will be problem solvers by nature, be able to work in a fast-paced environment, and demonstrate they care about both the people and the environment involved.
As an agency, our mission is to protect, preserve, and enhance Washington's environment for current and future generations. We invest in our employees to create and sustain a working environment that encourages creative leadership, effective resource management, teamwork, professionalism, and accountability.
To learn more about The Department of Ecology, please visit our website at www.ecology.wa.gov and follow, like or visit us on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram or our blog.
Agency Mission: The mission of the Department of Ecology is to protect, preserve and enhance Washington's environment, for current and future generations.
Program Mission: The mission of the Water Quality Program is to protect and restore Washington's waters to support healthy watersheds and communities. Our work ensures state waters can support beneficial uses including recreational and business activities, supplies for clean drinking water, and the protection of fish, shellfish, wildlife, and public health.
The Construction Stormwater Inspector conducts investigations to identify construction stormwater discharges. This work includes:
- Responding to and investigating environmental complaints related to construction stormwater
- Inspecting construction sites for compliance with the Construction Stormwater General Permit
- Developing watershed-based inspection regimes, using GIS, water quality impairment data, and other geospatial tools to prioritize sensitive waterbodies to protect from stormwater pollution
- Working with higher level environmental staff to negotiate enforcement actions and other complex agreements
- Communicating and building relationships with non-complying entities in order to work toward voluntary compliance
- Developing partnerships with municipalities, businesses, and interest groups in order to identify and respond to environmental issues
- Being a part of team of water quality professionals working to identify new and innovative means and methods of reducing stormwater pollution
- Contributing to policy and GIS tool development with the Southwest region's construction stormwater team
- Coordinating watershed cleanup actions (e.g. TMDLs) with Ecology's TMDL leads, Municipal Stormwater Permit planners, and water quality assessment staff
This position will remain open until filled. The initial screening will be on July 2, 2019. In order to be considered for the initial screening, please submit an application on or before July 1, 2019. The agency reserves the right to make an appointment any time after the initial screening date.
Required Qualifications:
A Bachelor's degree involving a major study in environmental, physical, or one of the natural sciences, environmental planning or other allied field AND two years of professional level experience in environmental analysis or control or environmental planning.
Additional qualifying experience will substitute, year for year, for education.
A Master's degree in one of the above fields will substitute for one year of the required experience.
OR
A Ph.D. in one of the above fields.
Desired Qualifications:
- CESCL training
- Water quality sampling experience or training
- Experience with environmental regulatory systems
Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment:
Must obtain and maintain a valid driver's license.