Job Details
Spill Responder (Environmental Specialist 3)
2026-03-31 State of Washington all cities,AK
Description:
The Spill Response team is trained to the 80-Hour Hazardous Materials Specialist level.In this role, you will respond to a variety of scenarios such as clandestine drug labs, highway accidents, industrial accidents, sunken vessels, and oil spills. You will work with a variety of partners at the local, State, Tribal, and Federal levels, as well as industry and private response contractors. We maintain a rapid, aggressive, and well-coordinated response posture and take pride in our work!
Preventing spills is always our first goal, but despite our efforts, spills still happen. The goal of our spill preparedness work is to reduce environmental impacts of spills. We require oilhandlers in Washington to be ready for a rapid, aggressive, and well-coordinated response to spills. We also require those responsible for spills to compensate the state for spill damages by restoring natural resources.
What you will do:
For detailed information on how we calculate experience, please visit our
Required Qualifications:
Six years of combined experience and/or education.
Experience: Performing environmental-based work, OR work related to any of the following:
Examples of how to qualify:
ICS 100:
ICS 200:
ICS 700:
ICS 800:
Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment:
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 .
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:
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:
The Spills Program's mission is to protect, preserve, and restore Washington's environment. Our vision is to create a zero spills world.
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.
Diversity, 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.
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.
Ecology employees may be eligible for the following: Medical/Dental/Vision for employee & dependent(s), Public Employees Retirement System (PERS), , 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, 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-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 (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 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, 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 Leave
Leave Sharing
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 01-07-2026
01
How did you hear about this job?
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 position, that includes one or more of the following:• Incident Command and Emergency Response LeadershipExperience serving as an initial Incident Commander or State On-Scene Coordinator, applying Incident Command System (ICS) principles to manage complex oil and hazardous materials incidents involving multiple agencies and competing priorities.• Advanced Spill Response and Hazardous Materials OperationsSkill in planning, directing, and performing hands-on response actions for oil spills, hazardous substance releases, abandoned waste, and illegal drug manufacturing facilities, including containment, cleanup, and mitigation in high-risk environments.• Hazard Identification, Sampling, and Field AnalysisKnowledge of hazardous substance identification, sampling techniques, field testing, and hazard classification, including safe handling of unknown materials and interpretation of monitoring data against health-based and regulatory standards.• Dangerous Waste Management and Regulatory ComplianceKnowledge of federal and state dangerous waste regulations and ability to ensure compliant waste handling, storage, transportation, disposal, inventory tracking, reporting, and emergency response planning.• Interagency and Law Enforcement CoordinationSkill in coordinating and leading response activities with local, state, federal, and tribal partners, including law enforcement agencies.• Emergency Spill Response OperationsAbility to independently respond to oil spills, hazardous substance releases, abandoned waste, and other environmental and human health emergencies, performing containment, control, and cleanup actions in accordance with established procedures.• Incident Command System ParticipationSkill in functioning effectively within the Incident Command System as an Incident Commander for routine incidents or as a Command/General Staff member or technical specialist during complex responses under direction.• Hazard Identification and Field SafetyKnowledge of hazardous materials recognition, site safety principles, and hazard assessment, including safe work practices in IDLH environments and proper use of Levels B and C personal protective equipment.• Sampling, Monitoring, and Waste HandlingExperience in collecting environmental and waste samples, operating field monitoring instruments, interpreting results using established guidance, and safely packaging, labeling, and transporting hazardous and dangerous waste for disposal.• Regulatory Knowledge and ApplicationKnowledge of applicable state and federal spill response and dangerous waste regulations, with the ability to apply regulations, guidance, and standard operating procedures to incident response and compliance activities.• Contractor and Responsible Party ManagementExperience observing, documenting, and/or supporting response actions conducted by spillers and environmental response contractors, escalating issues or non-compliance to supervisors as appropriate.• Technical Communication and DocumentationSkill in preparing clear, accurate, and timely incident documentation, reports, and data entries, and communicating technical information effectively to supervisors, response partners, and regulated parties.• Equipment Operation and ReadinessDemonstrated ability to safely operate and maintain spill response equipment, vehicles, boats, and monitoring instruments, and to maintain personal gear and assigned equipment in a state of readiness for emergency response.• Teamwork, Reliability, and AdaptabilityExperience working effectively as part of a response team, with the ability to adapt to rapidly changing conditions, maintaining professionalism under stress, and supporting inclusive, respectful working relationships.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.
05
Please provide additional details to support your response 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.
06
What is your level of education?
07
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.
08
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?
09
Are you able to meet all the Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment?
10
I understand that Ecology does not use the E-Verify system and is unable to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT).
Required Question
Salary : $58,584.00 - $78,912.00 Annually
Location : Spokane County - Spokane, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 2026-SPPR5006-02027
Department: Dept. of Ecology
Division: Spill Prevention, Preparedness and Response
Opening Date: 03/09/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Salary Information: The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step
Description
Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen
The Department of Ecology is hiring a Spill Responder (Environmental Specialist 3) within the
Location:
- Eastern Region Office in Spokane, WA.
- Upon hire, you must live within a commutable distance from the duty station.
- This position is eligible for telework and flexible schedule options.
- This position involves field work and office work; You may telework most of your office work time with occasional in-person meetings and activities.
- Schedules are dependent upon position needs and are subject to change.
- Apply by March 18, 2026
- This position will remainopen until filled. The agency reserves the right to make a hire at any time after application review begins. Applications received after the date above may not be considered.
The Spill Response team is trained to the 80-Hour Hazardous Materials Specialist level.In this role, you will respond to a variety of scenarios such as clandestine drug labs, highway accidents, industrial accidents, sunken vessels, and oil spills. You will work with a variety of partners at the local, State, Tribal, and Federal levels, as well as industry and private response contractors. We maintain a rapid, aggressive, and well-coordinated response posture and take pride in our work!
Preventing spills is always our first goal, but despite our efforts, spills still happen. The goal of our spill preparedness work is to reduce environmental impacts of spills. We require oilhandlers in Washington to be ready for a rapid, aggressive, and well-coordinated response to spills. We also require those responsible for spills to compensate the state for spill damages by restoring natural resources.
What you will do:
- Respond to the field as State On-Scene Coordinator at emergency oil and hazardous materials incidents.
- Represent the Department of Ecology at Local Emergency Planning Committee meetings and other opportunities for training and outreach with partner agencies.
- Conduct investigations and issue enforcements, to include monetary penalties, to Spillers.
- Maintain proficiency with a variety of tools, equipment, and processes such as multi-gas meters, personal protective equipment, and the Incident Command System.
For detailed information on how we calculate experience, please visit our
Required Qualifications:
Six years of combined experience and/or education.
Experience: Performing environmental-based work, OR work related to any of the following:
- Incident Command and Emergency Response Leadership
Experience serving as an initial Incident Commander or State On-Scene Coordinator, applying Incident Command System (ICS) principles to manage complex oil and hazardous materials incidents involving multiple agencies and competing priorities. - Advanced Spill Response and Hazardous Materials Operations
Skill in planning, directing, and performing hands-on response actions for oil spills, hazardous substance releases, abandoned waste, and illegal drug manufacturing facilities, including containment, cleanup, and mitigation in high-risk environments. - Hazard Identification, Sampling, and Field Analysis
Knowledge of hazardous substance identification, sampling techniques, field testing, and hazard classification, including safe handling of unknown materials and interpretation of monitoring data against health-based and regulatory standards. - Dangerous Waste Management and Regulatory Compliance
Knowledge of federal and state dangerous waste regulations and ability to ensure compliant waste handling, storage, transportation, disposal, inventory tracking, reporting, and emergency response planning. - Interagency and Law Enforcement Coordination
Skill in coordinating and leading response activities with local, state, federal, and tribal partners, including law enforcement agencies. - Emergency Spill Response Operations
Ability to independently respond to oil spills, hazardous substance releases, abandoned waste, and other environmental and human health emergencies, performing containment, control, and cleanup actions in accordance with established procedures. - Incident Command System Participation
Skill in functioning effectively within the Incident Command System as an Incident Commander for routine incidents or as a Command/General Staff member or technical specialist during complex responses under direction. - Hazard Identification and Field Safety
Knowledge of hazardous materials recognition, site safety principles, and hazard assessment, including safe work practices in IDLH environments and proper use of Levels B and C personal protective equipment. - Sampling, Monitoring, and Waste Handling
Experience in collecting environmental and waste samples, operating field monitoring instruments, interpreting results using established guidance, and safely packaging, labeling, and transporting hazardous and dangerous waste for disposal. - Regulatory Knowledge and Application
Knowledge of applicable state and federal spill response and dangerous waste regulations, with the ability to apply regulations, guidance, and standard operating procedures to incident response and compliance activities. - Contractor and Responsible Party Management
Experience observing, documenting, and/or supporting response actions conducted by spillers and environmental response contractors, escalating issues or non-compliance to supervisors as appropriate. - Technical Communication and Documentation
Skill in preparing clear, accurate, and timely incident documentation, reports, and data entries, and communicating technical information effectively to supervisors, response partners, and regulated parties. - Equipment Operation and Readiness
Demonstrated ability to safely operate and maintain spill response equipment, vehicles, boats, and monitoring instruments, and to maintain personal gear and assigned equipment in a state of readiness for emergency response. - Teamwork, Reliability, and Adaptability
Experience working effectively as part of a response team, with the ability to adapt to rapidly changing conditions, maintaining professionalism under stress, and supporting inclusive, respectful working relationships.
- 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
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 higher.
ICS 100:
ICS 200:
ICS 700:
ICS 800:
Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment:
- Must hold and maintain a valid driver's license and be able to operate a motor vehicle.
- Must pass employment medical surveillance physical and demonstrate and maintain the ability to wear respiratory protection and chemical protective clothing.
- Must pass a physical agilities test.
- Must be able to pass a detailed background check required to obtain and maintain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
- Must successfully complete initial SAFETRAC requirements and other required training outlined in Spills Program Policy and Procedures within 6 months of entering the position.
- Must be prepared for a minimum 3-day field deployment within 1 hour of notification.
- Must hold and maintain eligibility and certification (valid passport or enhanced driver's license) to permit travel to Canada in the event of a transboundary spill.
- This position is required to maintain a personal level of fitness necessary to successfully pass periodic medical surveillance exams, which may include a stress test, as detailed in the Spill Response Procedures.
- This position is identified as an Essential Agency Employee and is expected to work during facility closures and natural disasters.
- This position is required to perform after-hours on-call duty on a rotation.
- Must notify supervisor immediately if the employee is unable to obtain any of the above required licenses or certifications, or if any of the above are revoked, expired or suspended for any reason.
- Must live within a 60-minute commuting distance of the Eastern Region Office.
- Prior hazardous materials, emergency response, or disaster response experience.
- Experienced working in the Incident Command System.
- Hazardous Materials Technician Certification and Hazardous Materials Specialist Certification that meet the requirements of and
- Familiarity with the Northwest Area Contingency Plan.
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 .
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
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-###-####.
- For specific questions about the position location options, schedule, or duties, please contact Sam Hunn 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 ...@ecy.wa.gov
The Spills Program's mission is to protect, preserve, and restore Washington's environment. Our vision is to create a zero spills world.
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.
Diversity, 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.
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.
Ecology employees may be eligible for the following: Medical/Dental/Vision for employee & dependent(s), Public Employees Retirement System (PERS), , 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, 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-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 (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 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, 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 Leave
Leave Sharing
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 01-07-2026
01
How did you hear about this job?
- Community Based Organization
- Community / Technical College
- Ecology Employee
- Ecology Recruiter
- Ecology Jobs Page
- Job Board
- Job Fair
- Newspaper
- Other State Agency
- Other Website
- Professional Association
- 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?
- Yes
- No
04
How many years of experience do you have performing environmental-based work, OR work related to the position, that includes one or more of the following:• Incident Command and Emergency Response LeadershipExperience serving as an initial Incident Commander or State On-Scene Coordinator, applying Incident Command System (ICS) principles to manage complex oil and hazardous materials incidents involving multiple agencies and competing priorities.• Advanced Spill Response and Hazardous Materials OperationsSkill in planning, directing, and performing hands-on response actions for oil spills, hazardous substance releases, abandoned waste, and illegal drug manufacturing facilities, including containment, cleanup, and mitigation in high-risk environments.• Hazard Identification, Sampling, and Field AnalysisKnowledge of hazardous substance identification, sampling techniques, field testing, and hazard classification, including safe handling of unknown materials and interpretation of monitoring data against health-based and regulatory standards.• Dangerous Waste Management and Regulatory ComplianceKnowledge of federal and state dangerous waste regulations and ability to ensure compliant waste handling, storage, transportation, disposal, inventory tracking, reporting, and emergency response planning.• Interagency and Law Enforcement CoordinationSkill in coordinating and leading response activities with local, state, federal, and tribal partners, including law enforcement agencies.• Emergency Spill Response OperationsAbility to independently respond to oil spills, hazardous substance releases, abandoned waste, and other environmental and human health emergencies, performing containment, control, and cleanup actions in accordance with established procedures.• Incident Command System ParticipationSkill in functioning effectively within the Incident Command System as an Incident Commander for routine incidents or as a Command/General Staff member or technical specialist during complex responses under direction.• Hazard Identification and Field SafetyKnowledge of hazardous materials recognition, site safety principles, and hazard assessment, including safe work practices in IDLH environments and proper use of Levels B and C personal protective equipment.• Sampling, Monitoring, and Waste HandlingExperience in collecting environmental and waste samples, operating field monitoring instruments, interpreting results using established guidance, and safely packaging, labeling, and transporting hazardous and dangerous waste for disposal.• Regulatory Knowledge and ApplicationKnowledge of applicable state and federal spill response and dangerous waste regulations, with the ability to apply regulations, guidance, and standard operating procedures to incident response and compliance activities.• Contractor and Responsible Party ManagementExperience observing, documenting, and/or supporting response actions conducted by spillers and environmental response contractors, escalating issues or non-compliance to supervisors as appropriate.• Technical Communication and DocumentationSkill in preparing clear, accurate, and timely incident documentation, reports, and data entries, and communicating technical information effectively to supervisors, response partners, and regulated parties.• Equipment Operation and ReadinessDemonstrated ability to safely operate and maintain spill response equipment, vehicles, boats, and monitoring instruments, and to maintain personal gear and assigned equipment in a state of readiness for emergency response.• Teamwork, Reliability, and AdaptabilityExperience working effectively as part of a response team, with the ability to adapt to rapidly changing conditions, maintaining professionalism under stress, and supporting inclusive, respectful working relationships.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 years or more
- None of the above
05
Please provide additional details to support your response 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.
06
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 or above
- None of the above
07
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.
08
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?
09
Are you able to meet all the Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment?
- Yes
- No
10
I understand that Ecology does not use the E-Verify system and is unable to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT).
- Yes
- No
Required Question