Washington State

Description

Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen

The Environmental Assessment Program (EAP) within the Department of Ecology is looking to fill an EAP Eastern Operations Section, Modeling/TMDL/Groundwater Unit Supervisor (WMS Band 1) position.

Location:

• This position is located in our Central Region Office (CRO) in Union Gap, WA.
• Upon hire, you must live within a commutable distance from the duty station.

Schedule:

• This position is eligible for telework and flexible schedule options.
• A minimum of three days per week is required in the office.
• Schedules are dependent upon position needs and are subject to change.

Application Timeline:

• Apply by: July 17, 2025
• This position will remain open until filled. The agency reserves the right to make a hire at any time after application review begins. Applications received after July 17th may not be considered.

Duties

What makes this role unique?

In this role, you will contribute to the agency and program missions by managing and directing the Eastern Operations Modeling/TMDL/Groundwater Unit staff, which conduct Surface water, Groundwater, and Effectiveness Monitoring studies. You will be responsible for developing and implementing scientifically credible, well-coordinated monitoring programs designed to meet multiple agency objectives involving the management and regulation of Eastern Washington freshwater resources. You will also manage highly technical staff of research scientists, biologists, and engineers in-charge of independently planning, developing, directing, conducting and/or overseeing hydrologic/hydrogeologic projects for surface water and/or groundwater investigations. You will make decisions that are guided by familiar and reliable policies, published guidelines and regulations with established limits, and broad departmental policies and actions. These decisions require judgments that are usually made in known and familiar areas where there are reliable precedents and regulations and the judgment is tactical. Occasionally you will make decisions that require analysis in unknown or unexplored areas and recommend actions that may impact programs at a strategic level.

What you will do:

• Manage recruiting and hiring of unit staff in accordance with the collective bargaining agreement by and between the State of Washington and Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) and with civil service rules.
• Plan, lead, organize, and control the work performed by the unit. Ensure appropriate and optimal use of the unit's resources and enhance the effectiveness of employees through timely appraisal and professional development opportunities. Support effective communications throughout the agency. Maintain the highest standards of personal/professional and ethical conduct and support the state's goals for a diverse workforce.
• Plan and schedule unit workload, coordinate annual planning, establish priorities, assign tasks, facilitate intra- and inter-program project teams, monitor status of unit tasks and commitments, and ensure timeliness of employee assignments.
• Evaluate unit staffing needs, initiate personnel actions, prepare position descriptions and essential functions analyses, recommend staff hires, arrange training and professional development opportunities, evaluate staff performance, and initiate or recommend corrective actions.
• Manage unit budget and monitor expenditures; approve leave, timesheets, training requests, travel expense vouchers, and purchasing requests.
• Assure the timely completion of required or appropriate scientific reports, technical publications, Environmental Indicators, and other required products. Provide a detailed review of QAPPs, memoranda, and technical reports to ensure the scientific validity of research methods, SOPs, findings, and recommendations. Ensure that staff findings and recommendations are consistent with state and federal laws, regulations, policies, and guidelines.
• Prepare unit goals and objectives; communicate section, program, and agency activities to unit staff; communicate staff recommendations to management; coordinate monitoring activities with other unit supervisors; and prepare the unit's monthly report.
• Serve as lead contact for policy and program development for the MTG Unit and serve as a program liaison on inter-program and inter-agency work groups; and coordinate with relevant governmental, professional, and industry officials.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

Years of required experience indicated below are full-time equivalent years. Full-time equivalent experience means that any experience where working hours were less than 40 hours per week will be prorated in order to meet the equivalency of full-time. We would calculate this by looking at the total hours worked per week, divide this by 40, and then multiply by the total number of months worked. Examples of the proration calculations are:

• 30 hours worked per week for 20 months: (30/40) x 20 months = 15 months full-time equivalent
• 20 hours worked per week for 12 months: (20/40) x 12 months = 6 months full-time equivalent

Experience for both required and desired qualifications can be gained through various combinations of formal professional employment, education, and volunteer experience. See below for how you may qualify.

A total of nine years of experience and/or education, as listed below.

Experience: Professional research or work experience in watershed management, watershed health, water quality monitoring, water quality assessment, groundwater monitoring, or similar environmental work.

Education: With a major study in a natural science field.

All experience and education combinations that meet the requirements for this position:

Possible Combinations

College credit hours or degree – as listed above.

Years of required experience – as listed above.

Combination 1

No college credit hours or degree.

9 years of experience.

Combination 2

30-59 semester or 45-89 quarter credits.

8 years of experience.

Combination 3

60-89 semester or 90-134 quarter credits (AA degree).

7 years of experience.

Combination 4

90-119 semester or 135-179 quarter credits.

6 years of experience.

Combination 5

A Bachelor's Degree.

5 years of experience.

Combination 6

A Master's Degree.

3 years of experience.

Combination 7

A Ph.D.

2 years of experience.

For all education levels, knowledge of and demonstrated experience with the following is required:

• Experience with surface water monitoring/gaging and groundwater investigations/monitoring.
• Ability to apply standard methods in determination of the following:
  • Biological assessment, and surface water.
  • Stream flow and ecosystem characteristics.
• This position also requires knowledge of the principles of management as applied in a scientific work environment, including familiarity with environmental monitoring and assessment methods.

Desired Qualifications:

We highly encourage you to apply even if you do not have some (or all) of the desired experience below.

• Demonstrated skill in writing clear technical reports.
• Ability to deliver oral presentations on technical subject-matter.
• GIS mapping skills.

Note: Having some (or all) of this desired experience may make your application more competitive in a highly competitive applicant pool.

Supplemental Information

Ecology does not use the E-Verify system; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov.

Application Process

Ecology seeks diverse applicants: We view diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect through a broad lens including race, ethnicity, class, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, immigration status, military background, language, education, life experience, physical disability, neurodiversity, and intersectional identities. Qualified job seekers from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

How to Apply

Click “Apply” at the top of this page. Complete the entire application, including full work history and responses to all supplemental questions, and attach:

• Cover letter, describing your interest in and qualifications for this position
• Resume

Because we base our selection on the information you provide, it is in your best interest to complete the application thoroughly. A resume will not substitute for the “work experience” section of the application or vice versa. Applications with blank fields or supplemental question responses with comments such as “see resume” may be considered incomplete.

For detailed application information, please visit our Recruitment website.

Application Attestation: By submitting an application, you are affirming that the information contained in your application and on all attachments is complete and truthful. The state may verify this information, and any false or misleading answers may result in rejection of your application or dismissal if employed.

Need an Accommodation?

If you need reasonable accommodation during the application and/or screening process, including this job announcement in an alternate format:

• Please contact us at 360-407-6186 orcareers@ecy.wa.gov
• If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 711 or 1-800-833-6384.

Questions?

• For specific questions about the position location options, schedule, or duties, please contact Scott Tarbutton at scott.tarbutton@ecy.wa.gov
• If you need assistance applying for this job, are inquiring about the status of your application, would like to request the full position description, or have any other questions, please contact the Recruitment Team at careers@ecy.wa.gov

About the Department of Ecology

As the State of Washington’s environmental protection agency, we are deeply committed to protecting, preserving, and enhancing Washington’s environment for current and future generations. Joining Ecology means becoming part of a team dedicated to protecting and sustaining healthy land, air, water, and climate in harmony with a strong economy. A career in public service at Ecology allows you to help solve some of the most challenging problems facing our state, while keeping your health and financial security a priority. We combine one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation with a strong commitment to life/work balance. We invest in our employees to create and sustain a working environment that encourages creative leadership, effective resource management, teamwork, professionalism, and accountability.

The mission of the Environmental Assessment Program (EAP), within the Department of Ecology, is to measure, assess, and communicate environmental conditions in Washington. EAP works to improve the environment for current and future generations through innovative, excellent science and thriving partnerships.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Respect (DEIR) are core values central to Ecology’s work. We strive to be a workplace known for promoting authenticity and human-centered approaches. We believe we are more able to protect, promote, and enhance the environment when employees are supported to collaborate and advance professionally. We believe that DEIR is both a goal and an action. We are on a journey, honoring our shared humanity and taking steps to demonstrate our commitment to a vision where each of us is heard, seen, and valued.

Ecology employees may be eligible for the following:

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(Download PDF reader),Combined Fund Drive,SmartHealth*Click here for more information

To learn more about Ecology, please visit ourwebsite, explore Working at Ecology, check out our Strategic Plan, and connect with us onLinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, or ourblog.

Equal Opportunity Employer: The Washington State Department of Ecology is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, veterans, military spouses or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply.

Collective Bargaining: This is a position covered by a bargaining unit for which the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) is the exclusive representative.

Note: This recruitment may be used to fill other positions of the same job classification across the agency.

#LI-Hybrid

More than Just a Paycheck!

Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.

We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.

Read about our benefits:

The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.

Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.

Insurance Benefits

Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.

Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.

To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.

Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.

Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.

The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.

Retirement and Deferred Compensation

State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.

Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.

Social Security

All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Holidays

Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.

Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.

Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.

Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.

Sick Leave

Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.

Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

Vacation (Annual Leave)

Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.

Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.

Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

As provided in WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.

Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.

Military Leave

Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.

Bereavement Leave

Most employees whose family member or household member dies, are entitled to three (3) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.

Additional Leave

Leave Sharing

Parental Leave

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 12-31-2022

Read Full Description