• Job Description

  Req#: 5299603
  Salary : $67,992.00 - $91,464.00 Annually
  Location : Thurston County - Lacey, WA
  Job Type: Project (limited duration)
  Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
  Job Number: 2026-WQP1136-02917
  Department: Dept. of Ecology
  Division: Water Quality
  Opening Date: 04/09/2026
  Closing Date: Continuous
  Salary Information: The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step
  
  Description
  
  Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen
  The Department of Ecology is hiring a National Estuary Program Project Specialist (Environmental Specialist 4) within the .
  This is a project position that is funded until June 30, 2028. This funding is highly likely to be renewed for the next bi-annual budget cycle.
  Location:
  
  • Headquarters Office in Lacey, WA.
  • Upon hire, you must live within a commutable distance from the duty station.
  
  
  Schedule:
  
  • This position is eligible for telework and flexible schedule options.
  • You may telework most of your work time with occasional in-person meetings and activities.
  • Schedules are dependent upon position needs and are subject to change.
  
  
  Application Timeline:
  
  • Apply by April 26, 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.
  
  Duties
  You will have the opportunity to collaborate with, and learn from, a dynamic team of environmental professionals that are focused on Puget Sound recovery efforts. The type of projects that are funded with National Estuary Program (NEP) financial assistance are planning and direct implementation of stormwater best management practices, as well as research directed towards understanding emerging contaminants of concern. You will collaborate with Ecology's NEP planners, as well as other state agency participants in planning efforts for Puget Sound recovery, and will provide direct assistance to funding recipients to ensure that projects provide the maximum water quality value.
  
  What you will do:
  
  • Provide ongoing financial oversight of NEP-funded projects by reviewing payment request for eligible costs in compliance with state and federal requirements.
  • Negotiate and write new funding agreements.
  • Proactively identify issues with project scope, schedules, or budgets that could affect project implementation.
  • Coordinate with subject matter experts to ensure quality assurance requirements are met.
  • Maintain tracking data for all active projects, including status, budget expended/remaining, and other information as needed for planners and management.
  • Work within a team environment to identify emerging issues that influence NEP project prioritization.
  • Provide training and technical assistance to teammates, and internal and external partners.
  
  
  Qualifications
  For detailed information on how we calculate experience and responses to other frequently asked questions, please visit our
  
  Required Qualifications:
  Nine (9) years of experience and/or education as described below:
  
  • Experience in performing environmental-based work, OR work related to the essential functions and key activities of the position, that includes one or more of the following:
    • Financial Management - Ability to manage project funds and financial information to ensure expenditures are accurate, allowable, and compliant with agreements and regulations.
    • Project Oversight - Ability to monitor and guide projects to ensure they are implemented effectively, meet objectives, and achieve intended outcomes.
    • Technical Guidance - Ability to provide clear technical and administrative guidance to support project planning, implementation, and program administration.
    • Communication - Ability to convey program requirements, expectations, and results clearly to partners and the public through meetings, workshops, and trainings.
    • Policy Support - Ability to apply and provide input on policies, procedures, and guidelines to ensure consistent and effective program management.
  • Experience must include demonstrated competence in the following skill sets:
    • Using critical / analytical thinking and problem-solving skills to make decisions or determine a course of action.
    • Reviewing / assessing information and data to draw conclusions and recommending decisions or actions.
    • Conducting research and performing data analysis on both qualitative and quantitative data.
  • Education involving a major study in environmental, physical, or one of the natural sciences; environmental or natural science interdisciplinary studies; environmental planning, or a related field.
  
  Examples of how to qualify:
  
  • 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.
  
  Desired Qualifications:
  
  • Experience administering grants.
  • Experience with stormwater related work.
  • Experience developing or managing data tracking systems.
  
  
  If you are excited about this role but not sure if your experience aligns perfectly with every desired qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply. Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At the Department of Ecology, we are dedicated to building a diverse and authentic workplace centered in belonging. You may just be the needed candidate for this or other roles.
  Supplemental Information
  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 .
  
  Our Commitment to DEIR
  
  Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Respect (DEIR) are core values central to Ecology's work. We strive to be a workplace where we are esteemed for sharing our authentic identities, while advancing our individual professional goals and collaborating to protect, preserve, and enhance the environment for current and future generations.
  Diversity: We celebrate and appreciate diversity; our unique perspectives and abilities enrich us all and lead to innovative approaches and solutions.
  Equity: We champion equity, recognizing that each of us need different things to thrive.
  Inclusion: We intentionally create and hold space so that we all have meaningful opportunities to participate and contribute to Ecology's work.
  Respect: We treat each other with respect and dignity, acknowledging the inherent worth of our diverse perspectives and lived experiences, even in times of uncertainty and disagreement.
  We believe that DEIRis both a goal and an action. We are on a journey, honoring our shared humanity and taking steps to demonstrate our commitment to a vision where each of us is heard, seen, and valued.
  
  Application Process
  
  Ecology seeks diverse applicants: We view diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect through a broad lens including race, ethnicity, class, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, immigration status, military background, language, education, life experience, physical disability, neurodiversity, and intersectional identities. Qualified job seekers from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
  How 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 in and qualifications for this position
  • Resume
  
  Because we base our selection on the information you provide, it is in your best interest to complete the application thoroughly. A resume will not substitute for the "work experience" section of the application or vice versa. Applications with blank fields or supplemental question responses with comments such as "see resume" may be considered incomplete.
  
  For detailed application information, please visit our
  Application Attestation: By submitting an application, you are affirming that the information contained in your application and on all attachments is complete and truthful. The state may verify this information, and any false or misleading answers may result in rejection of your application or dismissal if employed.
  Need an Accommodation?
  
  If you need reasonable accommodation during the application and/or screening process, including this job announcement in an alternate format:
  
  • Please contact us at 360-407-6186 or
  • If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 711 or 1-800-833-6384.
  
  Questions?
  
  • For specific questions about the position location options, schedule, or duties, please contact Eliza Keeley at
  • If you need assistance applying for this job, are inquiring about the status of your application, would like to request the full position description, or have any other questions, please contact the Recruitment Team at careers@ecy.wa.gov
  
  About the Water Quality Program
  
  The mission of the Water Quality Program is to ensure that all aquatic life and communities in the watershed experience cool, clean water to refresh and sustain us in a changing climate. This position is part of the Ecosystem Restoration Unit of the Financial Management Section, and coordinates closely with the Stormwater Unit, and the NEP planners in the Science, Policy and Emerging Issues Section.
  About the Department of Ecology
  
  As the State of Washington's environmental protection agency, we are deeply committed to protecting, preserving, and enhancing Washington's environment for current and future generations. Joining Ecology means becoming part of a team dedicated to protecting and sustaining healthy land, air, water, and climate in harmony with a strong economy. A career in public service at Ecology allows you to help solve some of the most challenging problems facing our state, while keeping your health and financial security a priority. We combine one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation with a strong commitment to life/work balance. We invest in our employees to create and sustain a working environment that encourages creative leadership, effective resource management, teamwork, professionalism, and accountability.
  Ecology employees may be eligible for the following: Medical/Dental/Vision for employee & dependent(s), Public Employees Retirement System (PERS), , Public Service Loan Forgiveness, Tuition Waiver, Long Term Disability & Life Insurance, Deferred Compensation Programs, Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP), Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA), Employee Assistance Program, Commute Trip Reduction Incentives, Combined Fund Drive, SmartHealth *Click here for more information
  To learn more about Ecology, please visit our website, explore , check out our Strategic Plan, and connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, or our blog.
  Equal Opportunity Employer:The Washington State Department of Ecology is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, veterans, military spouses or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply.
  
  Collective Bargaining: This is a position covered by a bargaining unit for which the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) is the exclusive representative.
  Note: This recruitment may be used to fill other positions of the same job classification across the agency. Once all the position(s) from the recruitment announcement are filled, the recruitment may only be used to fill additional open positions for the next sixty (60) days.
  #LI-Hybrid
  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
  
  How did you hear about this job?
  • Community Based Organization
  • Community / Technical College
  • Ecology Employee
  • Ecology Recruiter
  • Ecology Jobs Page
  • Facebook
  • Job Board
  • Job Fair
  • LinkedIn
  • Newspaper
  • Other State Agency
  • Other Website
  • Professional Association
  • Twitter
  • University Job Board
  • WorkSource
  • Other
  
  02
  
  If you selected Community Based Organization, Community / Technical College, Job Board, Job Fair, LinkedIn Group, Newspaper, Other State Agency, Other Website, Professional Association, University Job Board, WorkSource, or Other, please share which one.
  03
  
  Have you ever worked for the Department of Ecology in any capacity including: Permanent, Non-permanent, Project, Intern, or Volunteer?
  • Yes
  • No
  
  04
  
  How many years of experience do you have in performing environmental-based work, OR work related to the essential functions and key activities of the position, that includes one or more of the following:o Financial Management - Ability to manage project funds and financial information to ensure expenditures are accurate, allowable, and compliant with agreements and regulations.o Project Oversight - Ability to monitor and guide projects to ensure they are implemented effectively, meet objectives, and achieve intended outcomes.o Technical Guidance - Ability to provide clear technical and administrative guidance to support project planning, implementation, and program administration.o Communication - Ability to convey program requirements, expectations, and results clearly to partners and the public through meetings, workshops, and trainings.o Policy Support - Ability to apply and provide input on policies, procedures, and guidelines to ensure consistent and effective program management.Experience must include demonstrated competence in the following skill sets:o Using critical / analytical thinking and problem-solving skills to make decisions or determine a course of action.o Reviewing / assessing information and data to draw conclusions and recommending decisions or actions.o Conducting research and performing data analysis on both qualitative and quantitative data.Please include any experience gained through employment, internships, and/or volunteer positions. Note that experience gained from academic coursework, class projects, or other degree requirements is assessed in later questions.
  • Two years
  • Three years
  • Four years
  • Five years
  • Six years
  • Seven years
  • Eight years
  • Nine or more years
  • None of the above
  
  05
  
  Please provide additional details to support your response above. The following information is needed: position title(s), specific duties, and periods of employment. Make sure your response specifically addresses the qualification above. An incomplete answer, including "please see resume" may remove you from further consideration.
  06
  
  What is your level of education?
  • 30-59 semester or 45-89 quarter college credits
  • 60-89 semester or 90-134 quarter college credits (AA degree)
  • 90-119 semester or 135-179 quarter college credits
  • Bachelor's degree
  • Master's degree
  • Ph.D.
  • None of the above
  
  07
  
  If you have college credits or a degree, please list your major(s) or field(s) of study and any degree(s) earned. If you don't have this education, put N/A.
  08
  
  The State of Washington and the Department of Ecology, play a vital role in fostering a Diverse, Equitable, Inclusive, and Respectful (DEIR) workplace and contributing to equitable outcomes for the communities we serve. We view DEIR through a broad lens including: race, ethnicity, class, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, immigration status, military background, language, education, life experience, physical disability, neurodiversity, and intersectional identities. We believe it is everyone's job to contribute to a DEIR workplace. What experiences have you had working with people whose backgrounds are very different from your own? What impact did those experiences have on how you worked?
  09
  
  I understand that Ecology does not use the E-Verify system and is unable to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT).
  • Yes
  • No
  
  10
  
  Which statement best describes your current proficiency in financial management?
  • None - No exposure or experience: I have not worked with project budgets, financial tracking, or compliance requirements.
  • Foundational - Basic awareness; limited exposure or training: I have basic awareness of financial processes and can assist with simple tasks under close guidance.
  • Intermediate - Performs tasks with some guidance; developing practical experience: I can track expenditures, review allowability, and follow financial procedures with guidance on complex issues.
  • Advanced - Performs tasks independently with consistent, demonstrated competence: I independently manage project budgets, ensure expenditures meet requirements, and produce accurate financial information with minimal oversight.
  • Expert - Recognized subject matter authority who leads, mentors, or sets direction: I provide authoritative financial guidance, develop or refine controls and procedures, and mentor others in financial compliance and stewardship.
  
  11
  
  Which statement best describes your current proficiency in project oversight?
  • None - No exposure or experience: I have not participated in project monitoring or oversight activities.
  • Foundational - Basic awareness; limited exposure or training: I understand basic project components and can support oversight tasks in a limited capacity.
  • Intermediate - Performs tasks with some guidance; developing practical experience: I monitor project progress, track deliverables, and support corrective actions with guidance.
  • Advanced - Performs tasks independently with consistent, demonstrated competence: I independently oversee projects, assess performance, guide course corrections, and ensure objectives are met.
  • Expert - Recognized subject matter authority who leads, mentors, or sets direction: I lead complex oversight efforts, set monitoring approaches, mentor others, and advise on best practices for achieving outcomes.
  
  12
  
  Which statement best describes your current proficiency in providing technical guidance?
  • None - No exposure or experience: I do not provide technical or administrative guidance for project or program work.
  • Foundational - Basic awareness; limited exposure or training: I can share basic information or refer questions but rely on others for detailed guidance.
  • Intermediate - Performs tasks with some guidance; developing practical experience: I provide guidance on routine project and program questions using established procedures, seeking help on complex issues.
  • Advanced - Performs tasks independently with consistent, demonstrated competence: I independently provide clear technical and administrative guidance on a wide range of issues and ensure consistency across projects.
  • Expert - Recognized subject matter authority who leads, mentors, or sets direction: I develop guidance materials, mentor staff, set standards, and serve as a primary technical resource for the program.
  
  13
  
  Which statement best describes your current communication proficiency?
  • None - No exposure or experience: I do not communicate program information to partners or the public.
  • Foundational - Basic awareness; limited exposure or training: I can communicate basic information with support or review from others.
  • Intermediate - Performs tasks with some guidance; developing practical experience: I communicate program requirements and updates clearly in routine situations, with guidance for more complex or high-stakes communication.
  • Advanced - Performs tasks independently with consistent, demonstrated competence: I independently deliver clear, accurate communications in meetings, workshops, and trainings, adapting messages to varied audiences.
  • Expert - Recognized subject matter authority who leads, mentors, or sets direction: I develop communication strategies, lead partner engagement efforts, and coach others on effective communication.
  
  14
  
  Which statement best describes your current proficiency in policy support?
  • None - No exposure or experience: I have not worked with program policies, procedures, or guidelines.
  • Foundational - Basic awareness; limited exposure or training: I understand basic policies and can follow established procedures with supervision.
  • Intermediate - Performs tasks with some guidance; developing practical experience: I apply policies to routine work, identify issues, and provide input with guidance from others.
  • Advanced - Performs tasks independently with consistent, demonstrated competence: I interpret and apply policies independently, recommend improvements, and ensure consistent implementation across work areas.
  • Expert - Recognized subject matter authority who leads, mentors, or sets direction: I help develop or refine policies, advise leadership, and mentor others to ensure clear and consistent program administration.
  
  15
  
  In 250 words or less, please describe your knowledge and/or experience related to stormwater management. If you do not have this, please put "N/A".
  Required Question

• About the company

  The best remote jobs for you

Notice