• Job Description

  Req#: 5369570
  Salary : $82,857.00 - $111,409.00 Annually
  Location : King County - Seattle - Belltown, WA
  Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
  Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
  Job Number: 26DOT-WSF-91019
  Department: Dept. of Transportation
  Division: Washington State Ferries
  Opening Date: 06/08/2026
  Closing Date: 6/22/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
  
  Description
  About WSDOT
  
  The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal agency with a global reputation for excellence. Our dedicated workforce plans, designs, builds, and operates an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state. In addition to maintaining over 20,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, manages the world's longest floating bridge, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!
  
  Washington State Ferries (WSF) is an essential part of Washington's transportation network. Every year, we carry nearly 20 million passengers across Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands on more than 400 sailings a day. Our dedicated teams with over 2,100 people work together to serve our communities and shape the future of ferry travel.
  The Opportunity
  
  WSF, a division of WSDOT, is currently seeking an Environmental Compliance Specialist to support the safe, reliable, and environmentally responsible operation of the Washington State Ferry system. This position serves as a key technical resource for environmental compliance, helping ensure ferry operations, maintenance activities, and infrastructure projects meet applicable environmental requirements while protecting natural, cultural, and historic resources. Through collaboration with project teams, regulatory agencies, and operational staff, this role helps minimize environmental risks and supports the successful delivery of transportation services across the state. By advancing regulatory compliance and environmental stewardship, this position plays an important role in maintaining public trust and supporting WSF's mission of providing dependable ferry service to the communities it serves.
  
  As we navigate a once-in-a-generation transformation to decarbonize our system - guided by our core values Serve, Respect, Trust, Grow Navigate, and bold strategic priorities Service Excellence, Improved Communication and Empowered People - there's never been a more meaningful time to come aboard at Washington State Ferries.
  What to Expect
  
  Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, you/the Environmental Compliance Specialist will:
  
  • Lead environmental compliance and monitoring for marine transportation construction projects.
  • Serve as a technical expert on environmental regulations, permits, and compliance requirements.
  • Manage environmental documentation, reporting, permit implementation, and commitment tracking.
  • Review and approve environmental compliance, erosion control, and spill prevention plans.
  • Conduct inspections, monitoring, and reporting to ensure regulatory and contractual compliance.
  • Support ESA, MMPA, and marine mammal monitoring requirements.
  • Lead stormwater management, permit compliance, and pollution prevention programs.
  • Oversee spill prevention, response planning, training, and emergency response support.
  • Uphold WSF's strategic priorities (Service Excellence, Improved Communication, and Empowered People) and values (Serve, Grow, Trust, Respect, and Navigate), ensuring they are embedded in WSF's culture through leadership actions
  
  Qualifications
  
  To be considered for this opportunity, the following are required:
  
  • Environmental Regulatory & Technical Expertise
    • Demonstrates advanced knowledge and application of environmental laws, permits, and compliance systems governing transportation and marine operations
    • Interprets and applies federal, state, and local environmental regulations (ESA, MMPA, stormwater, spill prevention, etc.).
    • Develops, reviews, and approves environmental plans (SWPPP, TESC, SPCC).
    • Oversees monitoring programs, testing, and reporting requirements.
    • Ensures contractor and operational compliance with permits and regulatory approvals.
    • Provides technical guidance on marine mammal monitoring and in-water work compliance.
  • Compliance Assurance & Risk Management
    • Conducts environmental audits and field inspections.
    • Investigates and reports non-compliance events.
    • Develops corrective actions and continuous improvement measures.
  • Analytical Problem Solving & Decision Making
    • Analyzes monitoring data and environmental performance metrics.
    • Responds effectively to unforeseen site conditions or regulatory changes.
    • Evaluates contractor compliance using technical documentation and field observation.
  • Field Operations & Safety Integration
    • Conducts construction and operational compliance monitoring.
    • Evaluates environmental controls in active work environments.
  • Growth Mindset
    • Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
  • Service-Oriented
    • Demonstrates a willingness to take action to meet the needs of others.
    • Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) within six months.
    • First Aid, CPR, and AED certification within six months.
    • HAZWOPER 40-hour certification within six months.
    • Certified Erosion and Sediment Control Lead (CESCL) within six months.
    • AHERA Building Inspector certification within six months.
    • Forage Fish Survey Training within one year.
  
  It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:
  
  • Technical Environmental Compliance
    • Demonstrates ability to develop, implement, and track environmental commitments for complex infrastructure projects.
    • Ensures compliance with permit conditions, mitigation measures, and environmental documentation throughout project lifecycles.
  • Marine Construction & Operations Expertise
    • Applies specialized knowledge of environmental protection requirements in marine and nearshore construction environments.
    • Coordinates environmental monitoring and compliance activities during in-water and shoreline work.
    • Demonstrates understanding of marine construction methods, equipment, and associated environmental impacts.
  • Regulatory Interpretation & Application
    • Interprets and applies environmental laws, regulations, standards, and agency policies governing transportation and marine projects.
    • Provides regulatory guidance to project managers, engineers, and construction staff.
    • Supports environmental permitting, inspections, and interagency coordination.
  • Environmental Monitoring & Field Investigation
    • Conducts and oversees environmental monitoring related to wildlife, habitat, water quality, and construction impacts.
    • Maintains accurate field documentation and compliance records.
  • Safety & Hazardous Materials Management
    • Implements environmental health and safety requirements in field and marine settings. Identifies and manages environmental hazards including hazardous materials, asbestos, and emergency response conditions.
    • Applies incident response procedures and risk mitigation strategies.
    • Promotes safe work practices aligned with regulatory and agency safety standards.
  • Communication & Interdisciplinary Coordination
    • Communicates environmental requirements clearly to engineers, construction personnel, and project managers.
    • Coordinates with regulatory agencies, tribal governments, contractors, and stakeholders.
    • Supports conflict resolution related to environmental compliance issues.
  
  Important Notes
  
  • This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options. While much of the work can be performed remotely, periodic fieldwork is required to support project oversight and compliance activities, with frequency varying based on project schedules and business needs.
  • In addition to the salary range listed, a general wage increase of 2% will be applied for all state employees on July 1, 2026, upon legislative approval.
  • In addition to base salary, employees may be entitled to other forms of compensation depending on the type, duties, or location of the position. For union-represented positions, more information on other forms of compensation can be found in the applicable Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in of the Washington Administrative Code.
  • WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit
  
  Why WSDOT
  
  • Work-Life Balance - We are committed to ensure that our staff experience the reward of public service, while also sustaining a routine that suits each individuals' lifestyle.
  • Paid Leave - In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees may earn up to 25 paid vacation days per year!
  • Tuition Assistance - Permanent employees have several options for assistance with education expenses, including tuition reimbursement programs, government discounts at participating colleges throughout the state, and eligibility for federal student loan forgiveness.
  • Plan For Your Future - WSDOT offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options. Employees also have their choice of state retirement programs, and much more. Go to for more information.
  
  Check out this video to learn more:
  How to Apply
  
  Applications for this recruitment will be accepted electronically. Your relevant experience may be evaluated to determine salary. Therefore, it is very important that the "Work Experience" portion of the application be completed in as much detail as possible.
  
  In order to be considered for this opportunity, please include the following with your online application
  
  • An attached Resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date.
  • An attached Cover Letter that further explains your qualifications and indicates why you believe you are a viable candidate for this role.
  • Contact details for a minimum three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job-related competencies. This information can be entered in the "References" section of the online application; does not require an additional attachment.
  
  Please click the "APPLY" button to proceed. Note that you will be prompted to either sign in or create an account. This step is required in order to submit an application to this opportunity.
  WSDOT is an equal opportunity employer. We value the importance of creating an environment in which all employees can feel respected, included, and empowered to bring unique ideas to the agency. Our diversity and inclusion efforts include embracing different cultures, backgrounds and viewpoints while fostering growth and advancement in the workplace. All persons, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, and/ or gender identity, are encouraged to apply. Persons with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the listed Recruiter.
  
  WSDOT 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
  Contact Us
  For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at Please be sure to reference 26DOT-WSF-91019 in the subject line.
  More than Just a Paycheck!
  Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
  
  We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
  
  Read about our benefits:
  The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
  
  Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
  
  Insurance Benefits
  Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
  
  Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
  
  To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
  
  Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
  
  Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.
  
  The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.
  
  Retirement and Deferred Compensation
  State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.
  
  Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
  
  Social Security
  All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
  
  Public Service Loan Forgiveness
  If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
  
  Holidays
  Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
  
  Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.
  
  Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.
  
  Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.
  
  Sick Leave
  Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.
  
  Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
  
  Vacation (Annual Leave)
  Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.
  
  Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.
  
  Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
  
  As provided in , an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.
  
  Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.
  
  Military Leave
  Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.
  
  Bereavement Leave
  Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.
  
  Additional Leave
  Leave Sharing
  
  Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
  Leave Without Pay
  
  Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
  
  Updated 01-07-2026
  01
  
  Which best describes your experience applying environmental regulations, permits, and compliance requirements to projects or operations?
  • I serve as a recognized technical expert, providing guidance on complex environmental regulations, permits, and compliance requirements and making final compliance determinations.
  • I independently interpret and apply environmental regulations and permit requirements to ensure compliance for projects or operations.
  • I routinely apply established environmental regulations and permit requirements as part of my work responsibilities
  • I have assisted others with implementing environmental regulations or permit requirements.
  • I have no experience applying environmental regulations or permit requirements.
  
  02
  
  Are you able to obtain and maintain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC), First Aid/CPR/AED certification, HAZWOPER 40-hour certification, Certified Erosion and Sediment Control Lead (CESCL) certification, and AHERA Building Inspector certification within six months of hire?
  • Yes
  • No
  
  03
  
  Which best describes your experience conducting field inspections, monitoring activities, or compliance reviews in active construction, industrial, transportation, or marine environments?
  • I independently lead field inspections and compliance reviews, identify issues, and determine appropriate corrective actions.
  • I independently conduct field inspections and monitoring activities and document compliance findings.
  • I regularly participate in field inspections and monitoring activities under general direction.
  • I have limited exposure to field inspections or monitoring activities.
  • I have no experience conducting field inspections or monitoring activities.
  
  04
  
  Which best describes your experience identifying, documenting, and resolving environmental compliance issues?
  • I lead compliance investigations, determine corrective actions, coordinate reporting, and monitor resolution efforts.
  • I independently identify compliance issues, recommend corrective actions, and track resolution.
  • I assist with identifying and documenting compliance issues and corrective actions.
  • I have limited experience supporting compliance reviews or investigations.
  • I have no experience with compliance investigations or corrective actions.
  
  05
  
  Which best describes your experience implementing and tracking environmental commitments, permit conditions, mitigation measures, or regulatory requirements?
  • I lead compliance programs and ensure environmental commitments are integrated and maintained throughout project lifecycles.
  • I independently manage environmental commitments and compliance requirements for projects or operations.
  • I routinely track and document environmental commitments and permit requirements.
  • I have limited experience assisting with compliance tracking activities.
  • I have no experience tracking environmental commitments or permit requirements.
  
  06
  
  Which best describes your experience supporting environmental compliance activities for marine, shoreline, in-water, or transportation-related construction projects?
  • I serve as the lead environmental compliance resource for marine or in-water construction projects and provide technical guidance to others.
  • I independently coordinate environmental compliance activities for marine, shoreline, or transportation construction projects.
  • I participate in environmental compliance activities associated with construction projects.
  • I have limited exposure to environmental compliance activities in construction environments.
  • I have no experience supporting environmental compliance for construction projects.
  
  07
  
  Which best describes your experience conducting, coordinating, or evaluating environmental monitoring activities?
  • I develop, oversee, and evaluate environmental monitoring programs and associated reporting requirements.
  • I independently conduct environmental monitoring activities and analyze results to support compliance decisions.
  • I collect, document, or review environmental monitoring data as part of assigned duties.
  • I have limited experience supporting environmental monitoring activities.
  • I have no experience with environmental monitoring activities.
  
  08
  
  Which best describes your experience responding to unforeseen environmental issues, changing site conditions, or regulatory requirements?
  • I independently evaluate complex issues, develop solutions, and make decisions that guide project or operational compliance.
  • I routinely assess issues and recommend solutions to maintain compliance with environmental requirements.
  • I identify issues and elevate them to others for resolution while supporting implementation of solutions.
  • I have limited experience responding to environmental compliance issues.
  • I have no experience responding to environmental compliance issues.
  
  09
  
  Which best describes your experience implementing stormwater monitoring and permitting procedures?
  • I lead stormwater management and permitting procedures and provide guidance to others.
  • I independently implement stormwater monitoring and permitting procedures within my area of responsibility.
  • I routinely participate in stormwater management and permitting procedures.
  • I have limited exposure to stormwater management and permitting procedures.
  • I have no experience with stormwater management and permitting procedures.
  
  10
  
  Which best describes your experience communicating environmental requirements and coordinating compliance activities with internal and external stakeholders?
  • I serve as the primary environmental liaison and regularly coordinate with regulatory agencies, tribal governments, contractors, and multidisciplinary project teams.
  • I independently coordinate environmental compliance activities with stakeholders and provide guidance on regulatory requirements.
  • I routinely communicate environmental requirements to project teams or stakeholders as part of my work.
  • I have limited experience communicating environmental compliance requirements.
  • I have no experience coordinating environmental compliance activities.
  
  11
  
  How did you learn of this employment opportunity?
  • Indeed
  • LinkedIn
  • Direct Email Notification
  • WSDOT social media (Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, etc)
  • Career Fair
  • Monster
  • WorkSource
  • Handshake
  • AASHTO
  • NACTO
  • COMTO
  • APWA
  • "NOW HIRING" banner/sign
  • Radio advertisement
  • WSDOT Employment Site
  • Careers.wa.gov
  • governmentjobs.com
  • Other (specify below)
  
  12
  
  If you selected 'Other' on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:
  Required Question

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