• Job Description

  Req#: 5276192
  Salary : $75,108.00 - $100,980.00 Annually
  Location : Thurston County - Lacey, WA
  Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
  Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
  Job Number: 2026-AQ5042-02355
  Department: Dept. of Ecology
  Division: Air Quality
  Opening Date: 03/20/2026
  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 Quality Assurance Coordinator (Environmental Specialist 5)within the (AQP)
  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.
  • A minimum of one day per week is required in the office.
  • Schedules are dependent upon position needs and are subject to change.
  
  Application Timeline:
  
  • Apply by April 5, 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
  If you enjoy working as part of a smart, highly collaborative team, applying your knowledge and skills for the betterment of air quality, as well as the occasional day working in the field at monitoring sites across our beautiful state, this may be the perfect job for you. As the Air Quality Program's Quality Assurance Coordinator and the statewide expert in quality assurance, you will lead the Quality Assurance team, research, plan, and oversee the development and implementation of the Air Quality Program quality assurance system, ensuring that our data are a bedrock of credibility for our environmental protection efforts.
  
  What you will do:
  
  
  • Research and evaluate federal and state quality system requirements, share and gather information in collaboration with the statewide air monitoring team to establish and implement quality assurance policy for the Air Quality Program and the Washington State Ambient Air Monitoring Network.
  • Lead 4-person Quality Assurance Team and assign quality assurance activities.
  • Use R, Python and/or other analysis software to develop quality assurance tools and products to assess and describe the quality of highly complex datasets.
  • Identify critical and emerging quality system deficiencies and makes recommendations for improvement to section manager and program management.
  • Write, review, and approve, standard operating procedures (SOPs) and Quality Assurance Project Plans (QAPP).
  • Serve on the Air Quality Program's Monitoring Advisory Committee.
  • Perform thorough qualitative and quantitative review of data generated from the Washington State Ambient Air Monitoring Network to determine its validity.
  • Conduct performance and system audits in the field.
  
  
  Qualifications
  For detailed information on how we calculate experience and responses to other frequently asked questions, please visit our
  
  Required Qualifications:
  
  Ten (10) years of experience and/or education as described below:
  
  Experience: Environmental-based work, OR work related to the position, that includes two or more of the following:
  • Air Monitoring Experience - Proven ability to apply knowledge of air monitoring systems and instrumentation to ensure accurate and reliable measurement of ambient air pollutants.
  • Regulatory Compliance - Proven ability to interpret and apply EPA and state regulations to ensure the air monitoring network meets all required standards.
  • Technical Writing - Documented ability to write and revise SOPs, QA plans, reports, and audit documentation to clearly document processes and ensure standardization.
  • Quality Assurance - Ability to develop, implement, and evaluate quality systems to ensure compliance with federal and state requirements.
  • Audit Management - Ability to plan, conduct, and respond to performance audits to maintain data integrity and regulatory compliance.
  
  Experience must include demonstrated competence in the following skill sets:
  • Critical Thinking & Decision-Making - Ability to use critical and analytical thinking to evaluate situations, solve problems, and determine appropriate courses of action.
  • Data Review & Evaluation - Ability to review and assess information and data to draw sound conclusions and recommend informed decisions or actions.
  • Initiative - Ability to research quality system requirements, seek out and use computer models and other data sources, and to initiate and complete projects
  • Research & Data Analysis - Ability to conduct research and analyze both qualitative and quantitative datasets to support program improvements and evidence-based decision-making.
  
  Education: involving a major study in environmental, physical, or one of the natural sciences; environmental or natural science interdisciplinary studies; environmental planning, or related field.
  Examples of how to qualify:
  
  • 10 years of experience.
  • 9 years of experience AND 30-59 semester or 45-89 quarter college credits.
  • 8 years of experience AND 60-89 semester or 90-134 quarter college credits (Associate's degree).
  • 7 years of experience AND 90-119 semester or 135-179 quarter college credits.
  • 6 years of experience AND a Bachelor's degree.
  • 4 years of experience AND a Master's degree.
  • 3 years of experience AND a Ph.D.
  
  Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment:
  
  Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
  Desired Qualifications:
  • Leadership & Mentorship - Ability to lead and mentor diverse teams by fostering an inclusive, respectful, and equitable work environment that values different perspectives, supports professional growth, and strengthens overall team performance.
  • Team focus - Ability to actively support, encourage, solicit and listen to input, and assist teammates toward positive outcomes in the team's work. Ability to consistently model teamwork principles and set the example.
  • Air Monitoring Equipment- Ability to apply principles of calibration, maintenance, and operation of air monitoring equipment to ensure accurate and reliable data collection.
  • Data Analysis Software - Ability to use R, Python, RShiny, or similar software to analyze, manage, and interpret complex environmental datasets.
  • Regulatory Interpretation & Application - Ability to read, interpret, and apply federal and state laws, regulations, policies, and guidance to ensure compliance and informed decision-making.
  • Exploratory & Statistical Analysis - Ability to perform exploratory data analysis and apply appropriate statistical methods, including non-parametric techniques, to evaluate environmental data.
  • Technical Communication - Ability to interpret and explain complex technical information to non-technical audiences to support understanding and informed decision-making.
  
  If you are excited about this role but not sure if your experience aligns perfectly with every 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.
  
  We believe that DEIR is 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
  
  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 Sean Lundblad 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
  
  The Air Quality Program's mission is to equitably protect and improve air quality for all of Washington. AQP, the Environmental Protection Agency, Tribes, and local clean air agencies maintain a network of air monitoring stations to measure air pollution in Washington. Using continuous monitoring data, we let you know when air pollution reaches unhealthy levels. Based on this near-real-time air quality information, you can change your daily activities to reduce the amount of air pollution you're exposed to. The ambient air monitoring data our employees work with are essential to the Air Quality Program's efforts to:
  
  • Determine if air quality is meeting federal standards
  • Forecast air quality
  • Make daily burn decisions and curtailment calls
  • Assist with permitting activities
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of air pollution control programs
  • Evaluate the effects of air pollution on public health
  
  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 doing environmental-based work?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.
  • One year
  • Two years
  • Three years
  • Four years
  • Five years
  • Six years
  • Seven years
  • Eight years
  • Nine years
  • Ten years or more
  • 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
  
  Please list the experience(s) that you have from the below options and describe how much time you have with and where you gained that experience:Air Monitoring ExperienceRegulatory Compliance ExperienceTechnical Writing ExperienceQuality Assurance ExperienceAudit Management ExperienceIf you do not have any of this experience, please write NA
  09
  
  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. Please tell us, what does it mean for you to have a commitment to DEIR in the workplace? What steps or actions have you taken to demonstrate your commitment previously?
  10
  
  Are you able to obtain and maintain a valid driver's license?
  • Yes
  • No
  
  11
  
  I understand that Ecology does not use the E-Verify system and is unable to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT).
  • Yes
  • No
  
  Required Question

• About the company

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