Environmental Inspector - Underground Storage Tanks (Environmental Specialist 3)

State of Washington•Spokane County – Spokane, WA

10d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Department of Ecology is hiring an Environmental Inspector - Underground Storage Tanks (Environmental Specialist 3) within the Toxics Cleanup Program (TCP). This position is located in the Eastern Region Office in Spokane, WA. The role involves ensuring underground storage tank systems are operated, installed, and closed in compliance with state and federal regulations through inspections, technical assistance, and enforcement. The goal is to reduce leaks from underground storage tanks and prevent soil, groundwater, and air contamination. This position combines field work, problem-solving, and collaboration, using professional judgment to support compliance, educate regulated parties, and promote healthy communities and natural resources statewide.

Requirements

Six years of experience and/or education related to the duties of the position.
Critical and Analytical Thinking – Ability to evaluate complex environmental information, field observations, and technical data to identify issues, compare options, and determine effective compliance or environmental protection actions.
Judgment and Decision Making – Demonstrated competence in assessing risks, impacts, and regulatory requirements to make timely, well-supported decisions that uphold program objectives and regulatory consistency.
Communication of Rules and Procedures – Skilled with explaining environmental regulations, program requirements, and procedural steps to ensure clear understanding and improved compliance by regulated parties and the public.
Communication and Collaboration – Ability to coordinate with internal teams, other organizations, and regulated entities to share information, problem-solve, and support consistent program implementation.
Systems and Equipment Interpretation – Demonstrated competence in understanding how environmental systems, equipment, or operational processes function to accurately assess performance, compliance, or potential environmental risk.
Data and Documentation Management – Skilled with organizing, reviewing, and interpreting technical data, inspection records, and reports to support accurate tracking, defensible documentation, and program reporting.
Investigation and Field Assessment – Experience in conducting field inspections, gathering evidence, and documenting findings to establish compliance status and support follow-up or enforcement actions.
Technical Assistance – Ability to provide clear guidance on environmental requirements, operational practices, and compliance expectations to help regulated parties improve performance and reduce environmental risk.
Education involving a major study in environmental, physical, or one of the natural sciences; environmental or natural science interdisciplinary studies; environmental planning, or an academic discipline related to the duties of the position.
Examples of how to qualify: 6 years of experience. 5 years of experience AND 30-59 semester or 45-89 quarter college credits. 4 years of experience AND 60-89 semester or 90-134 quarter college credits (Associate’s degree). 3 years of experience AND 90-119 semester or 135-179 quarter college credits. 2 years of experience AND a Bachelor’s degree. A Master’s degree or above.

Nice To Haves

Underground Storage Tank (UST) Systems Knowledge – Experience in evaluating the design, components, and operation of UST systems to accurately assess compliance and system performance.
Compliance and Enforcement Experience – Demonstrated competence in conducting compliance evaluations, issuing enforcement actions, or supporting legal processes to achieve improved regulatory adherence.
Scientific Data Analysis – Strong ability to review, interpret, and synthesize technical or scientific data to support environmental decision-making and identify compliance trends.
Regulation Interpretation and Reporting – Experience in interpreting environmental regulations and preparing reports or compliance documentation to support program requirements and regulatory clarity.
Data Management Software Proficiency – Skilled with using databases, spreadsheets, and related software tools to organize information, interpret inspection findings, and support program reporting needs.

Responsibilities

Travel to various facilities to conduct UST inspections in accordance with EPA technical compliance guidance, independently applying professional judgment to identify violations and determine appropriate corrective actions.
Perform UST system installation, retrofit, and decommissioning inspections to ensure work meets regulatory and environmental protection standards.
Issue enforcement actions consistent with the UST Inspector Enforcement Manual and follow up with responsible parties to return facilities to compliance.
Investigate complaints of suspected leaking underground storage tanks, documenting findings and recommending next steps.
Provide technical assistance and education to UST owners, operators, contractors, and internal staff on UST regulations, forms, and compliance requirements.
Serve as a regional point of contact for external customers on UST-related questions and issues.
Coordinate with owners, operators, contractors, and local governments on complex UST projects, and contribute to special projects such as developing or updating guidance, tools, and resources for inspectors.
Maintain accurate and complete UST files and databases by reviewing submittals, documenting compliance data, and supporting performance measures related to UST compliance.