Environmental Compliance Specialist - Washington State Ferries

State of Washington•King County - Seattle – Belltown, WA

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is seeking an Environmental Compliance Specialist to support the safe, reliable, and environmentally responsible operation of the Washington State Ferry system. This position is a key technical resource for environmental compliance, ensuring ferry operations, maintenance, and infrastructure projects meet environmental requirements while protecting natural, cultural, and historic resources. The role involves collaboration with project teams, regulatory agencies, and operational staff to minimize environmental risks and support transportation services. This position plays a crucial role in advancing regulatory compliance and environmental stewardship, maintaining public trust, and supporting WSF’s mission of providing dependable ferry service.

Requirements

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.
Conducts environmental audits and field inspections.
Investigates and reports non-compliance events.
Develops corrective actions and continuous improvement measures.
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.
Conducts construction and operational compliance monitoring.
Evaluates environmental controls in active work environments.
Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
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.

Nice To Haves

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.
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.
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.
Conducts and oversees environmental monitoring related to wildlife, habitat, water quality, and construction impacts.
Maintains accurate field documentation and compliance records.
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.
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.

Responsibilities

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.