Senior Hydrogeologist (Hydrogeologist 4)(In Training)

State of Washington•Multiple Locations Statewide, WA

6d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Department of Ecology is hiring a Senior Hydrogeologist (Hydrogeologist 4)(In Training) within the Water Quality Program. This role offers the opportunity to apply hydrogeologic background to meaningful work that supports Washington’s communities and environment. The position allows for work on emerging groundwater topics such as reclaimed water use, land-application practices, and industrial wastewater treatment, while contributing to important permitting decisions that help protect water quality across the state. The role involves collaborating closely with colleagues across the Water Quality Program, individuals at regulated facilities, and community members. The work supports keeping Washington’s water resources safe, sustaining local communities, and encouraging responsible growth.

Requirements

Possession of a valid Washington State Geologist and/or Hydrogeologist Specialty license (for Hydrogeologist 3 level).
Possession of a valid Washington State Hydrogeologist Specialty license (for Hydrogeologist 4 level).
Seven years of professional experience and/or education, including Hydrogeologic Analysis, Regulatory & Permitting Application, Field Investigation & Sampling, Compliance & Enforcement Evaluation, Technical Communication, Technical Document Review, and Independent Professional Judgment (for Hydrogeologist 3 level).
Nine years of professional experience and/or education, including Hydrogeologic Analysis, Regulatory & Permitting Application, Field Investigation & Sampling, Compliance & Enforcement Evaluation, Technical Communication, Technical Document Review, and Independent Professional Judgment (for Hydrogeologist 4 level).
Education involving a major study in hydrogeology, hydrology, geology, or closely related field.
Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license or provide alternate reliable transportation for travel within the state of Washington.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with environmental legislation and regulations at the federal, state, and local level.
Experience with oral and written communication of complex issues and interpreting technical documents for a variety of audiences.
Experience or demonstrated familiarity with groundwater analysis and land treatment techniques at industrial facilities.

Responsibilities

Support the preparation and review of wastewater discharge permits (State Waste Discharge (SWD) & National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES)) for industrial facilities, ensuring permits help protect water quality and meet regulatory requirements.
Use hydrogeology and geology knowledge to assess submitted hydrogeological reports and documents, helping ensure they meet relevant state and federal standards.
Integrate state Groundwater Quality Standards into wastewater discharge permits by interpreting monitoring data, conducting statistical and hydrogeologic assessments, and contributing to permit conditions and compliance decisions.
Collaborate with facility staff and consultants to address complex environmental questions related to regulatory requirements, treatment technologies, permit conditions, and water quality investigations, providing clear guidance and supporting solutions.
Apply understanding of groundwater, reclaimed water, and industrial wastewater systems to support permit compliance inspections, document findings, and communicate results in ways that promote safe and effective practices.
Work alongside other Ecology hydrogeologists to review, interpret, and enhance internal and external guidance for land treatment practices, contributing to the ongoing improvement of program resources.