Commercial and Industrial Air Quality Inspector (Environmental Specialist 3)

Commercial and Industrial Air Quality Inspector (Environmental Specialist 3)

Salary

$59,760.00 - $80,496.00 Annually

Location

Spokane County - Spokane, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

2026-AQ5434-05898

Department

Dept. of Ecology

Division

Air Quality

Opening Date

07/17/2026

Closing Date

Continuous

Salary Information

The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Description

Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen

The Department of Ecology is hiring a Commercial and Industrial Air Quality Inspector (Environmental Specialist 3) within the Air Quality Program (AQP)

Location:

• Eastern Region Office in Spokane, 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 one day per week is required in the office.
• Schedules are dependent upon position needs and are subject to change.

Application Timeline:

• Apply by July 30, 2026.
• Applications submitted after the date above may not be reviewed unless additional qualified applicants are needed.

Duties

Do you envision clean, healthy air and climate for all of Washington? Would you enjoy working with a dynamic team to communicate requirements to commercial and industrial facilities located in Eastern Washington?

Ecology's Air Quality Program is looking for an inspector to join our Commercial Industrial Unit. In this role, you will work with a variety of businesses to ensure they are operating within state and federal air quality regulations, and you'll have the opportunity to provide education and technical assistance to facilities as they navigate these requirements. This position conducts inspections throughout the twelve-county Eastern Region and coordinates with the Air Quality Program's Central Region to inspect sources that operate in both regions.

What you will do:

• Conduct Compliance Inspections; Independently plan, prioritize, and perform scheduled and unannounced on-site inspections of minor industrial air pollution sources to determine compliance with state and federal air quality regulations and permit conditions.
• Perform File & Data Reviews; Review permits, emission data, facility records, and prior inspection files to identify applicable requirements, compliance issues, and questions in advance of site visits.
• Determine Regulatory Compliance; Evaluate industrial processes, equipment, and emissions and use applicable laws, regulations, and permits to make objective compliance determinations.
• Provide Technical Assistance; Educate facility staff on air quality requirements, control technologies, best practices, permit conditions, and corrective actions needed for compliance.
• Document Inspections & Maintain Records; Prepare written inspection reports, document observations, submit field data, and maintain accurate records in electronic and paper systems consistent with agency policies.
• Conduct Enforcement Actions; Initiate and support enforcement actions when violations are identified; collaborate with agency staff and the Attorney General's Office, and testify in hearings as required.
• Manage Source Registration Information; Update and maintain source information in the registration system; notify facilities of overdue reports or fees; track compliance obligations.

Qualifications

For detailed information on how we calculate experience, please visit our Recruitment website.

Required Qualifications:

Six (6) years of experience and/or education as described below:

Experience in performing environmental-based work, OR work related to the position, that includes two or more of the following:

• Compliance Experience - Determining the compliance or status of an organization or group against a set of expectations, metrics or standards.
• Regulatory Experience -Analyzing and understanding rules, regulations or laws and comparing business or operational activities in comparison.
• Communications -Communicating complex requirements to individuals or organizations in a professional manner.

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 a related academic discipline.

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.
• no experience needed AND a Master's degree or higher.

Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment:

• Must possess and maintain a valid drivers license.

Desired Qualifications:

• Regulatory & Technical Review - Ability to review and understand environmental regulations and complex technical documents.
• Data & Records Management - Ability to maintain complete and accurate data and records within timelines and using required procedures
• Multitasking & Adaptability - Ability to multitask effectively in an ever-changing, fast-paced environment
• Mechanical Experience - Ability to understand and apply knowledge of mechanical processes

If you are excited about this role and meet the required qualifications, we encourage you to apply. Desired qualifications reflect additional knowledge, skills, or experience that are nice to have but not required. Studies have shown that some applicants, especially women and people of color, are less likely to apply unless they meet every listed qualification. At the Department of Ecology, we are dedicated to building a diverse and authentic workplace centered in belonging, and we welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and unique perspectives.

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 or careers@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 Gail Wright at Gail.Wright@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

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Respect (DEIR) are core values central to Ecologys 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 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, Combined Fund Drive, SmartHealth *Click here for more information

To learn more about Ecology, please visit our website, explore Working at Ecology, 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. Thats 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, 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

Parental Leave

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
• 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?

• Yes
• No

04

How many years of experience do you have performing environmental-based work OR work related to the position, that includes two or more of the following: 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
• 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 in environmental, physical, or one of the natural sciences; environmental or natural science interdisciplinary studies; environmental planning, or a related academic discipline.?

• 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
• Bachelors degree
• Masters degree
• Ph.D.
• 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 dont 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 everyones 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 obtain and maintain a valid drivers license?

• 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

11

How would you rate your experience evaluating organizational compliance against established standards, expectations, or metrics?

• None - I have no experience evaluating compliance or determining status against standards.
• Foundational - I have basic awareness of compliance concepts and limited exposure to evaluating compliance.
• Intermediate - I can evaluate compliance with some guidance and have performed compliance reviews with developing practical skill.
• Advanced - I independently conduct compliance evaluations and consistently demonstrate accurate, reliable assessments.
• Expert - I am recognized as a compliance authority who leads evaluations, mentors others, or sets compliance assessment practices.

12

How would you rate your experience analyzing rules, regulations, or laws and determining how they apply to organizational operations?

• None - I have no experience interpreting regulations or comparing them to operations.
• Foundational - I have basic awareness of regulatory concepts and limited exposure to regulatory review.
• Intermediate - I can analyze regulations with some guidance and apply them to operations with developing skill.
• Advanced - I independently interpret and apply regulations to operational activities with consistent accuracy.
• Expert - I am a recognized regulatory subject matter authority who advises, mentors, or establishes regulatory interpretation practices.

13

How would you rate your experience clearly communicating complex or technical requirements to individuals or groups in a professional setting?

• None - I have no experience communicating complex requirements.
• Foundational - I have basic awareness of communication approaches and limited exposure to explaining complex requirements.
• Intermediate - I can communicate complex requirements with some guidance and am developing skill in tailoring messages.
• Advanced - I independently and effectively communicate complex requirements with consistent clarity and professionalism.
• Expert - I am recognized as a communication authority who mentors others or leads the development of communication strategies for complex requirements.

14

How would you rate your ability to use critical and analytical thinking to solve problems, make decisions, or determine a course of action?

• None - I have no experience applying critical or analytical thinking in decision-making.
• Foundational - I have basic awareness of analytical thinking approaches with limited exposure to structured problem-solving.
• Intermediate - I apply analytical thinking with some guidance and am developing practical experience solving problems.
• Advanced - I independently use critical thinking to solve problems and make decisions with consistent, demonstrated competence.
• Expert - I am recognized for advanced analytical capability and regularly mentor, lead, or shape decision-making processes.

15

How would you rate your experience reviewing and assessing information or data to draw conclusions and recommend actions?

• None - I have no experience reviewing data or drawing conclusions for decision-making.
• Foundational - I have basic awareness of data review practices and limited exposure to assessing information.
• Intermediate - I can review and interpret information with some guidance and am developing skill in forming recommendations.
• Advanced - I independently assess information and data to draw accurate conclusions and make reliable recommendations.
• Expert - I am recognized as an authority in analysis and regularly lead data assessments or mentor others in developing recommendations.

16

How would you rate your experience conducting research and analyzing qualitative or quantitative data?

• None - I have no experience conducting research or analyzing data.
• Foundational - I have basic awareness of research methods and limited exposure to data analysis.
• Intermediate - I conduct research and analyze data with some guidance and am building practical experience with analytical tools.
• Advanced - I independently conduct research and analyze qualitative and quantitative data with consistent accuracy and skill.
• Expert - I am recognized as a subject matter authority who leads research efforts, mentors analysts, or sets standards for data analysis.

Required Question

Employer State of Washington

Address View Job Posting for Agency Information

View Job Posting for Location, Washington, 98504

Website http://www.careers.wa.gov