Shoreland, Wetland, Aquatic Resource Specialist (Environmental Specialist 4)

State of Washington•Spokane County – Spokane, WA

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Department of Ecology is hiring a Shoreland, Wetland, Aquatic Resource Specialist (Environmental Specialist 4) within the Shorelands & Environmental Assistance (SEA) program. This position serves as the Eastern Region’s senior technical expert for evaluating projects that affect wetlands, shorelands, and state-regulated aquatic resources. In this role, you will independently apply Section 401 of the Clean Water Act, the Water Pollution Control Act (RCW 90.48), and the Shoreline Management Act (SMA) to ensure consistent, scientifically sound, and legally defensible project decisions. You will guide local governments, applicants, and partner agencies on complex regulatory requirements; conduct advanced field assessments; and lead enforcement for wetlands and RCW 90.48 violations across 13 counties. You will also coordinate state-level review of shoreline and aquatic resource proposals, analyze SEPA/NEPA documents, and negotiate project modifications to achieve regulatory compliance and environmental protection. As the region’s senior specialist, you will collaborate with tribes, federal agencies, local governments, and the Attorney General’s Office to resolve conflicts, support enforcement actions, and ensure effective, coordinated implementation of statewide policies.

Requirements

Nine (9) years of experience and/or education as described below:
Professional level experience in wetland, riparian, and aquatic resource evaluation; shoreline and critical areas permitting; environmental compliance and enforcement; and providing technical assistance to local governments, applicants, and partner agencies.
Demonstrated ability to accurately interpret and validate wetland delineations, rating forms, functional assessments, and mitigation proposals; applies ecological principles to evaluate resource conditions and project impacts.
Applies regulatory knowledge and analytical skills to determine whether proposals comply with Section 401, RCW 90.48, the Shoreline Management Act, and local Critical Areas Ordinances; evaluates permit applications for completeness, accuracy, and technical adequacy.
Performs independent field investigations to identify the ordinary high water mark (OHWM), assess shoreline and wetland site conditions, and collect reliable field data to support regulatory determinations and technical recommendations.
Identifies potential non-compliance with environmental regulations, gathers facts, evaluates evidence, and communicates clear, actionable guidance to applicants, landowners, and local governments to support voluntary compliance and corrective measures.
Prepares thorough documentation for enforcement actions, contributes to case strategy, and supports legal processes by providing technical expertise, clear written records, and effective communication with the Attorney General’s Office and other partners.
Collaborates effectively with local governments, state and federal agencies, tribes, and applicants to support project review; analyzes environmental documents (SEPA/NEPA) and develops well-reasoned, evidence-based comments on potential impacts.
Must possess and maintain a valid driver license.

Nice To Haves

Upon hire, must live within a commutable distance from the duty station.
Willingness and ability to occasionally work in excess of 40 hours per week and travel throughout the Eastern Region and less frequently across the state.

Responsibilities

Conduct senior-level review of wetland delineations, functional assessments, mitigation plans, ordinary high water mark (OHWM) determinations, and shoreline/aquatic resource proposals for accuracy and regulatory compliance.
Coordinate Ecology’s permitting response for Section 401 Water Quality Certifications and for projects regulated under RCW 90.48 and the Shoreline Management Act.
Lead investigations and enforcement actions for wetlands and state-regulated aquatic resource violations, preparing documentation and representing Ecology in hearings and legal proceedings.
Provide expert technical assistance to local governments implementing Critical Areas Ordinances and Shoreline Master Programs, ensuring consistent interpretation and application of regulations.
Review SEPA/NEPA documents and provide clear, well-supported comments on environmental impacts related to wetlands, water quality, and shorelines.
Collaborate with applicants, tribes, federal and state agencies, and internal program staff to resolve technical issues and negotiate project changes that meet environmental and legal requirements.
Maintain accurate project documentation in SPTS, ERTS, SEPA, and related databases, supporting compliance tracking and agency transparency.