Salary : $58,584.00 - $78,912.00 AnnuallyLocation : Thurston County - Lacey, WAJob Type: Project (limited duration)Remote Employment: Flexible/HybridJob Number: 2025-WQP1318-04796Department: Dept. of EcologyDivision: Water QualityOpening Date: 07/15/2025Closing Date: ContinuousSalary Information: The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step DescriptionKeeping Washington Clean and EvergreenThe Department of Ecology is hiring a Puget Sound Nutrients Project and Financial Specialist (Environmental Specialist 3) within the This is a project position that is funded until December 31, 2028. This funding is likely to be renewed for the next bi-annual budget cycle.Location:
- Headquarters Office in Lacey, 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.
- You may telework most of your work time with occasional in-person meetings and activities.
- Schedules are dependent upon position needs and are subject to change.
Application Timeline:
- Apply by July 29, 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 the above date may not be considered.
DutiesAs the Puget Sound Nutrients Project and Financial Specialist, you'll work in a multi-faceted role to engage with Puget Sound communities providing technical and financial assistance to advance nutrient removal efforts from wastewater treatment plants. You'll help manage and oversee individual funding awards for nutrient reduction, as well as general wastewater treatment projects primarily in the Puget Sound region. You'll collaborate with Ecology engineers and permit managers, monitor project performance, conduct site visits, and assist with programmatic planning related to Puget Sound Nutrient Reduction grants.What you will do:
- Negotiate and write new funding agreements, in coordination with the Project Manager. Incorporate input from project evaluators, Ecology engineers, financial management staff, and other Ecology subject matter experts. Ensure funding agreements are in accordance with state and federal rules and regulations, and funding source requirements. Finalize agreements in the Ecology Administration of Grants and Loans system.
- Assess project compliance with funding agreement terms, funding program guidelines, agency policy, and state and federal funding program requirements.
- Monitor performance of funded projects through review and processing of quarterly progress reports, payment requests, backup documentation, project deliverables, and performing site visits throughout the project duration, specifically at critical milestone stages.
- Work closely with other Water Quality Program grant and loan managers and wastewater treatment facility engineers in providing for the effective and efficient management of the Puget Sound Nutrient Reduction and Clean Water State Revolving Fund monies.
- Make financial assistance recommendations regarding the development, coordination, and implementation of water quality best management practices involving water pollution prevention and pollution control.
- Collaborate with colleagues in the Financial Management Section to promote funding opportunities.
QualificationsFor detailed information on how we calculate experience, please visit our Required Qualifications:Six (6) years of experience and/or education as described below:
- Experience performing environmental-based work, OR work related to the essential functions and key activities of the position, that includes two or more of the following:
- Financial Management & Oversight - Review and monitor financial transactions, payment requests, and project budgets to ensure appropriate use of funds and adherence to financial guidelines.
- Regulatory & Policy Experience - Interpret and apply relevant laws, policies, and guidelines to ensure projects comply with funding requirements.
- Grant and Contract Administration - Manage the full lifecycle of grants and loans, including application, monitoring, and closeout to support successful project execution and reporting.
- Technical Environmental Experience - Understand basic water quality or wastewater treatment operations and nutrient reduction strategies to provide informed technical assistance and contextualize financial decisions.
- Experience must include demonstrated competence in the following skill sets:
- Using critical / analytical thinking and problem-solving skills to make decisions or determine a course of action.
- Reviewing / assessing information and data to draw conclusions and recommending decisions or actions.
- Conducting research and performing data analysis on both qualitative and quantitative data.
- Education involving a major study in environmental, physical, or one of the natural sciences; environmental or natural science interdisciplinary studies; environmental planning, or related field.
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.
Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment:
- Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
Desired Qualifications:
- Experience working with city or county governments.
- Experience with developing or managing data tracking systems.
- Experience with managing grants and/or contracts.
If you are excited about this role but not sure if your experience aligns perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply. Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At the Department of Ecology, we are dedicated to building a diverse and authentic workplace centered in belonging. You may just be the needed candidate for this or other roles.Supplemental InformationEcology does not use the E-Verify system; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit .Our Commitment to DEIRDiversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Respect (DEIR) are core values central to Ecology's work. We strive to be a workplace where we are esteemed for sharing our authentic identities, while advancing our individual professional goals and collaborating to protect, preserve, and enhance the environment for current and future generations.Diversity: We celebrate and appreciate diversity; our unique perspectives and abilities enrich us all and lead to innovative approaches and solutions.Equity: We champion equity, recognizing that each of us need different things to thrive.Inclusion: We intentionally create and hold space so that we all have meaningful opportunities to participate and contribute to Ecology's work.Respect: We treat each other with respect and dignity, acknowledging the inherent worth of our diverse perspectives and lived experiences, even in times of uncertainty and disagreement.We believe that DEIRis 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.Application ProcessEcology 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 ApplyClick 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 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-###-#### or
- If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 711 or 1-800-###-####.
Questions?
- For specific questions about the position location options, schedule, or duties, please contact Seth Elsen at
- 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 [email protected]
About the Water Quality ProgramThe Water Quality Program vision is for Washington's communities to work together and with us to sustain healthy, thriving watersheds and provide cool, clean water to fish, shellfish, wildlife, people, and businesses. As part of the Financial Management Section, you will see policy and public funding meet boots-on-the-ground to do the work to realize this vision.About the Department of EcologyAs 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.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 our website, explore , check out our Strategic Plan, and connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, or our blog.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. Once all the position(s) from the recruitment announcement are filled, the recruitment may only be used to fill additional open positions for the next sixty (60) days.#LI-HybridMore 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 BenefitsEmployees 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 CompensationState 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 SecurityAll 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 ForgivenessIf 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 (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 (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 , 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 LeaveWashington 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, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.Additional LeaveLeave SharingFamily and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)Leave Without PayPlease visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.Updated 07-21-202501 How did you hear about this job?
- Community Based Organization
- Community / Technical College
- Ecology Employee
- Ecology Recruiter
- Ecology Jobs Page
- Facebook
- Job Board
- Job Fair
- LinkedIn
- Newspaper
- Other State Agency
- Other Website
- Professional Association
- Twitter
- University Job Board
- WorkSource
- Other
02 If you selected Community Based Organization, Community / Technical College, Job Board, Job Fair, LinkedIn Group, Newspaper, Other State Agency, Other Website, Professional Association, University Job Board, WorkSource, or Other, please share which one. 03 Have you ever worked for the Department of Ecology in any capacity including: Permanent, Non-permanent, Project, Intern, or Volunteer?
04 How many years of experience do you have performing environmental-based work, OR work related to the duties of the position, that includes two or more of the following: o Financial Management & Oversight - Review and monitor financial transactions, payment requests, and project budgets to ensure appropriate use of funds and adherence to financial guidelines. o Regulatory & Policy Experience - Interpret and apply relevant laws, policies, and guidelines to ensure projects comply with funding requirements. o Grant and Contract Administration - Manage the full lifecycle of grants and loans, including application, monitoring, and closeout to support successful project execution and reporting. o Technical Environmental Experience - Understand basic water quality or wastewater treatment operations and nutrient reduction strategies to provide informed technical assistance and contextualize financial decisions.Please include any experience gained through employment, internships, and/or volunteer positions. Note that experience gained from academic coursework, class projects, or other degree requirements is assessed in later questions.
- One year
- Two years
- Three years
- Four years
- Five years
- Six or more years
- None of the above
05 Which of the following areas of experience do you possess? (select all that apply)
- Performing environmental-based work.
- Financial Management & Oversight - Review and monitor financial transactions, payment requests, and project budgets to ensure appropriate use of funds and adherence to financial guidelines.
- Regulatory & Policy Experience - Interpret and apply relevant laws, policies, and guidelines to ensure projects comply with funding requirements.
- Grant and Contract Administration - Manage the full lifecycle of grants and loans, including application, monitoring, and closeout to support successful project execution and reporting.
- Technical Environmental Experience - Understand basic water quality or wastewater treatment operations and nutrient reduction strategies to provide informed technical assistance and contextualize financial decisions.
06 Please provide additional details to support your responses to questions 4 and 5 above. The following information is needed: position title(s), specific duties, and periods of employment. Make sure your response specifically addresses the qualification above. An incomplete answer, including please see resume may remove you from further consideration. 07 What is your level of education?
- 30-59 semester or 45-89 quarter college credits
- 60-89 semester or 90-134 quarter college credits (AA degree)
- 90-119 semester or 135-179 quarter college credits
- Bachelor's degree
- Master's degree
- Ph.D.
- None of the above
08 If you have college credits or a degree, please list your major(s) or field(s) of study and any degree(s) earned. If you don't have this education, put N/A. 09 The State of Washington and the Department of Ecology, play a vital role in fostering a Diverse, Equitable, Inclusive, and Respectful (DEIR) workplace and contributing to equitable outcomes for the communities we serve. We view DEIR 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. We believe it is everyone's job to contribute to a DEIR workplace.What experiences have you had working with people whose backgrounds are very different from your own? What impact did those experiences have on how you worked? 10 Are you able to obtain and maintain a valid driver's license?
11 I understand that Ecology does not use the E-Verify system and is unable to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT).
Required Question
