Nooksack Basin Specialist (Environmental Specialist 3) (In-Training)

State of Washington • Bellingham, WA

411d • $56,880 - $76,608 • Remote

About The Position

The Nooksack Basin Specialist (Environmental Specialist 3) (In-Training) position at the Department of Ecology in Bellingham, WA, focuses on managing water rights adjudications in the Water Resources Inventory Area (WRIA) 1. This role involves providing technical assistance to the public, conducting research, and processing water right applications. The position offers a career path with on-the-job training, allowing candidates to progress through the Environmental Specialist field. The role includes fieldwork opportunities and collaboration with a dedicated team.

Requirements

• A total of five (5) years of experience and/or education in environmental-based work or related fields for Environmental Specialist 2 level.
• Demonstrated experience interacting with the public in difficult situations.
• Familiarity with technical software and data analysis.
• Education involving a major study in environmental, physical, or natural sciences, or closely related fields.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with Microsoft Excel.
• Knowledge of water rights laws.
• Experience navigating within GIS software.

Responsibilities

• Communicate with water right applicants, the public, local governments, Tribal agencies, and state and federal entities, providing technical recommendations and direction on water right statutes, regulations, and policies.
• Interact with the public to answer questions about adjudication, court claim filings, and water rights.
• Process water right applications, conduct pre-application consultations, and perform office and field investigations.
• Research and examine water right information and guide applicants through the process.
• Prepare written Reports of Examination which result in agency actions for decisions on water right applications and permits.
• Review incoming court claim filings and input information into Washington Adjudication Information System, ensuring completeness and accuracy.
• Develop and prepare technical materials, including maps, to support permit decision-making.

Benefits

• Medical/Dental/Vision for employee & dependent(s)
• Public Employees Retirement System (PERS)
• Vacation, Sick, and other Leave
• 11 Paid Holidays per year
• 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

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support
• Education Level: Associate degree