Commercial and Industrial Air Quality Inspector (Environmental Specialist 3)

State of Washington•Spokane County – Spokane, WA

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Department of Ecology is hiring a Commercial and Industrial Air Quality Inspector (Environmental Specialist 3) within the Air Quality Program (AQP) in Spokane, WA. This position is eligible for telework and flexible schedule options, with a minimum of one day per week required in the office. The role involves working with commercial and industrial facilities in Eastern Washington to ensure compliance with state and federal air quality regulations, providing education and technical assistance. The inspector will conduct inspections throughout the twelve-county Eastern Region and coordinate with the Air Quality Program’s Central Region for sources operating in both regions.

Requirements

Six (6) years of experience and/or education in environmental-based work, OR work related to the position, that includes two or more of the following: Compliance Experience, Regulatory Experience, Communications.
Demonstrated competence in using critical / analytical thinking and problem-solving skills to make decisions or determine a course of action.
Demonstrated competence in reviewing / assessing information and data to draw conclusions and recommending decisions or actions.
Demonstrated competence in 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 academic discipline.
Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.

Nice To Haves

Ability to review and understand environmental regulations and complex technical documents.
Ability to maintain complete and accurate data and records within timelines and using required procedures.
Ability to multitask effectively in an ever-changing, fast-paced environment.
Ability to understand and apply knowledge of mechanical processes.

Responsibilities

Conduct Compliance Inspections: Independently plan, prioritize, and perform scheduled and unannounced on-site inspections of minor industrial air pollution sources to determine compliance with state and federal air quality regulations and permit conditions.
Perform File & Data Reviews: Review permits, emission data, facility records, and prior inspection files to identify applicable requirements, compliance issues, and questions in advance of site visits.
Determine Regulatory Compliance: Evaluate industrial processes, equipment, and emissions and use applicable laws, regulations, and permits to make objective compliance determinations.
Provide Technical Assistance: Educate facility staff on air quality requirements, control technologies, best practices, permit conditions, and corrective actions needed for compliance.
Document Inspections & Maintain Records: Prepare written inspection reports, document observations, submit field data, and maintain accurate records in electronic and paper systems consistent with agency policies.
Conduct Enforcement Actions: Initiate and support enforcement actions when violations are identified; collaborate with agency staff and the Attorney General’s Office, and testify in hearings as required.
Manage Source Registration Information: Update and maintain source information in the registration system; notify facilities of overdue reports or fees; track compliance obligations.