Shorelands & Environmental Assistance (SEA) Program Manager (EMS Band 4)

Shorelands & Environmental Assistance (SEA) Program Manager (EMS Band 4)

Salary

$149,464.00 - $157,210.00 Annually

Location

Thurston County - Lacey, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

2026-EXEC4079-05618

Department

Dept. of Ecology

Division

Executive

Opening Date

07/13/2026

Closing Date

Continuous

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Description

Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen

The Department of Ecology is hiring a Shorelands & Environmental Assistance (SEA) Program Manager (EMS Band 4) within the Executive Leadership Team.

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.

• A minimum of three days per week is required in the office.

• Schedules are dependent upon position needs and are subject to change.

Application Timeline:

• Apply by August 09, 2026

• Applications submitted after the date above may not be reviewed unless additional qualified applicants are needed.

Duties

We are looking for a transformational leader who is ready to partner with a dedicated team of professionals to guide Washington's statewide efforts to protect and restore shorelands, wetlands, coastal areas, and floodplains; strengthen community resilience; advance clean energy siting; and support conservation and hazard-mitigation initiatives across diverse landscapes.

In this role, you will serve as the executive leader for the Department of Ecology's Shorelands and Environmental Assistance (SEA) Program-a statewide program that integrates science, planning, policy, permitting, funding, and community partnerships to protect Washington's environment and help communities thrive. You will provide strategic leadership and direction for major state and federal programs, oversee complex regulatory and policy work, and cultivate partnerships that support resilient ecosystems, sustainable community development, and climate preparedness.

Responsibilities include:

• Planning, leading, organizing, and directing the statewide Shorelands and Environmental Assistance Program by negotiating program scope, priorities, resources, and outcomes.
• Overseeing the development and implementation of policies, rules, and guidance that shape statewide shorelands, wetlands, floodplain management, clean energy coordination, and coastal resilience-affecting all 39 counties and numerous regulated entities.
• Leading the program's strategic direction to align shorelands protection, watershed-based planning, coastal management, hazard mitigation, clean energy siting, and community conservation initiatives with Ecology's mission and statewide environmental priorities.
• Administering state and delegated federal programs including the Shoreline Management Act, State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA), the Coastal Zone Management Act, the Clean Water Act Section 401 Water Quality Certification Program, and wetland and floodplain management authorities.
• Managing the program's operating and capital budgets, personnel, and resources to ensure responsible, transparent, and effective stewardship of public funds.
• Hiring, leading, and developing managers, supervisors, and senior policy staff while fostering a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performing workplace that supports diversity, staff engagement, and professional growth.
• Ensuring high-quality, defensible regulatory and scientific outcomes across program functions including planning, permitting, wetlands and flood hazard review, clean energy coordination, coastal hazard mitigation, and community-based conservation.
• Overseeing major statewide initiatives such as Floodplain by Design; Wetland Mitigation Banking; Shoreline Management Act; critical areas ordinances under the Growth Management Act; and the stewardship, research, education, and community science missions of the Padilla Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, the Northwest Straits Commission, and the Washington Conservation Corps.
• Serving as Washington's designated Coastal Manager, representing the state before federal agencies and negotiating on matters related to the Coastal Zone Management Act.
• Coordinating Ecology's disaster response activities related to severe storms, catastrophic floods, wildfires, and other natural hazards through deployment of Washington Conservation Corps resources.
• Building and maintaining strong partnerships with Tribes; federal, state, and local government partners; conservation organizations; environmental justice advocates; regulated entities; and community-based organizations.
• Integrating SEA's work across Ecology programs-especially Water Quality, Water Resources, Toxics Cleanup, Climate Pollution Reduction, and Environmental Assessment-to promote watershed-based, cross-program alignment and effective statewide outcomes.

Who are we looking for?

We are seeking an experienced, collaborative leader ready to guide a diverse, multi-disciplinary program with statewide reach. You will need the ability to:

• Think strategically, anticipate long-term needs, and adapt to emerging opportunities and challenges affecting Washington's shorelands, wetlands, floodplains, and coastal communities.
• Communicate effectively with a wide range of partners-including Tribal governments, local communities, environmental and industry partners, scientists, planners, and elected officials-to support informed decision-making and build durable, trust-based relationships.
• Navigate complex state and federal environmental laws, policies, and regulatory frameworks and translate them into cohesive, strategic program direction.
• Understand the interconnectedness of the program's regulatory, scientific, and community-driven work-and how these efforts impact ecosystems, communities, and statewide resilience.
• Advance equitable, science-based outcomes that protect Washington's environment and support community wellbeing.

A Key Member of Ecology's Executive Leadership Team

This position serves as a key member of the Washington State Department of Ecology's Executive Leadership Team and plays a critical role in advancing the agency's mission to protect, preserve, and enhance Washington's environment for current and future generations.

It is essential that this position model the highest standards of personal, professional, and ethical conduct in support of efficient, effective, and accountable government.

This is a highly visible executive role responsible for providing statewide leadership on shorelands, wetlands, floodplains, coastal management, hazard mitigation, conservation partnerships, and clean energy project coordination. The position represents Ecology's environmental, scientific, and policy interests with Tribal governments, environmental justice advocates, local communities, academic institutions, regulated industries, partner agencies, elected officials, and the public.

As a key member of the Department's Executive Leadership Team, you will:

• Represent the Director and agency leadership before federal, state, local, Tribal, and elected officials; partner agencies; environmental organizations; environmental justice advocates; and the public.
• Serve as a trusted advisor on policy, planning, and regulatory issues affecting shorelands, wetlands, floodplains, coastal areas, and community resilience.
• Provide scientific, policy, and strategic leadership to ensure consistent, equitable, and effective statewide implementation of major environmental laws and programs.
• Collaborate across programs to align statewide planning, permitting, conservation, and hazard-mitigation work with agency and statewide priorities.
• Advocate for a diverse, equitable, inclusive, and respectful workplace culture that supports innovation, accountability, and staff engagement.

Why Join the Team?

This is an opportunity to shape some of Washington's most important environmental and community outcomes. In this role, you will guide the policies, partnerships, and investments that protect shorelines and wetlands, support community resilience, advance clean energy, and prepare Washington for the challenges of climate change. You will work with dedicated colleagues, Tribal and community partners, and leaders across all levels of government to deliver lasting, meaningful benefits for people and places statewide.

This position is an Exempt Management Service (EMS) Band IV position. The minimum and maximum salary for EMS Band IV positions is $100,692 - $173,472.

Qualifications

For detailed information on how we calculate experience and responses to other frequently asked questions, please visit our Recruitment website.

Required Qualifications:

Demonstrated expertise in environmental, physical or natural science, environmental studies, engineering, public administration, planning, public policy, political science, law, or another related qualifying discipline. This expertise can be demonstrated through professional degrees and/or professional and lived experience.

• Demonstrated professional level management experience which includes:
• Strategic Leadership, Budget and Planning - Proven track record setting clear vision and direction to guide managers and staff toward achieving long-term agency- and program goals, including the development of annual and biennial plans and budgets that articulate future direction.
• Ethical and Inclusive Leadership - Demonstrated proficiency in modeling high ethical standards and fostering a diverse, equitable, and respectful workplace to support effective public service.
• Communication and Relationship Building - Proven experience communicating complex information clearly and building strong internal and external partnerships, to include engaging with Tribal governments on natural resources management issues.
• Program and Policy Management - Demonstrated skills in leading and integrating multiple environmental programs to ensure consistent implementation of statewide policies, procedures, and rules.
• Intergovernmental and Partner Coordination - Proven track record collaborating with federal, state, local, and Tribal partners to negotiate agreements and advance shared environmental goals.
• Resource and Workforce Stewardship - Demonstrated proficiency in allocating resources, making staffing decisions, and developing the workforce to support effective program delivery.
• Regulatory and Compliance Oversight - Demonstrated skills in authorizing, issuing, or approving permits, enforcement actions, and legal decisions to ensure compliance with environmental laws.
• Environmental Regulatory Expertise - Proven track record interpreting and applying environmental statutes such as SEPA, SMA, CZMA, and Section 401 to ensure defensible and consistent decisions.
• Watershed and Systems Integration - Experience integrating statutory responsibilities across environmental programs to support watershed-based management and cross-program alignment.
• Rulemaking and Guidance Development - Demonstrated proficiency in developing rules and statewide guidance to achieve consistent, legally sound implementation across diverse jurisdictions.

Desired Qualifications:

• Desired Education: involving a major study in public administration, business administration, environmental management, natural sciences, natural resources, environmental sciences, physical sciences, engineering, planning, or other related field.

• Desired Experience:

• Involvement in scientific/technical services issues in the environmental, natural resource management and/or health protection fields.

• Experience using advanced management, communication, negotiation and consensus building skills with high-level, influential, elected and appointed officials.

• Providing leadership to a large staff of over 100 employees.

• Experience managing diverse fund sources.

• Member of a senior or executive leadership team.

• Advanced knowledge of the Puget Sound Partnership.

• Advanced knowledge of the Clean Water Act.

• Working knowledge of State Environmental Policy Act

• Experience and a successful record of accomplishment working with state agencies, city, county and federal governments.

• Experience as a second-level supervisor.

• Experience leading or managing in a large agency or organization.

• Working in or collaborating with state government.

• Experience working with or applying policy decisions from the Washington Health Disparities Map.

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.

Our Commitment to DEIR

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.

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 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.

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 Jake Barkman at Jake.Barkman@ecy.wa.gov

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

About the Shorelands & Environmental Assistance Program

The mission of the Shorelands & Environmental Assistance Program is to foster conservation and restoration of shorelines, wetlands, and floodplains with special emphasis on community-based conservation. This position is responsible for administering and managing state and delegated federal programs, including the state Environmental Policy Act, Shoreline Management Act, Growth Management Act, Wetland Protection and the Federal Coastal Zone Management Act, Section 401 of the Clean Water Act, and management of the Padilla Bay National Estuarine Reserve.

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.

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 Incentive, 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.

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

#LI-Hybrid

More than Just a Paycheck!

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

We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. 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 related to the duties of this position? 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
• Seven years
• Eight years
• Nine or more years
• None of the above

05

What is your level of education?

• 30-59 semester or 45-89 quarter college credits
• 60-89 semester or 90-134 quarter college credits (Associates degree)
• 90-119 semester or 135-179 quarter college credits
• Bachelors degree
• Masters degree
• Ph.D.
• None of the above

06

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.

07

How would you rate your ability to set clear long term vision and direction for teams or programs, including developing annual and biennial plans and budgets that guide future agency priorities?

• None: No experience contributing to or setting organizational direction or long-term plans.
• Foundational: Basic awareness of strategic planning concepts; limited exposure to vision setting or planning processes.
• Intermediate: Participates in developing plans or budgets with guidance; contributes components to strategic direction.
• Advanced: Independently creates strategic plans or budgets that inform organizational direction and align staff toward long term goals.
• Expert: Recognized leader who defines agency level strategy, mentors others in strategic planning, and sets long term vision across programs.

08

How would you rate your ability to model high ethical standards and foster a diverse, equitable, and respectful workplace environment?

• None: No exposure to ethical leadership or equity related practices.
• Foundational: Basic awareness of ethics and DEI concepts; limited involvement in related activities.
• Intermediate: Consistently applies ethical standards and participates in DEI efforts with some guidance.
• Advanced: Independently promotes ethical decision making and proactively builds an inclusive team culture.
• Expert: Serves as a role model and authority on ethics and inclusion, leading agency wide initiatives and mentoring others.

09

How would you rate your ability to clearly communicate complex information and build strong internal and external partnerships, including engaging with Tribal governments on natural resource issues?

• None: No experience communicating complex information or engaging partners.
• Foundational: Basic communication skills; limited exposure to partnership or Tribal engagement.
• Intermediate: Communicates effectively with guidance; participates in partnership building including occasional Tribal engagement.
• Advanced: Independently communicates complex information clearly and maintains productive partnerships, including consistent engagement with Tribes.
• Expert: Widely recognized for strategic communication and relationship building; leads major partnerships and mentors others in Tribal and partner engagement.

10

How would you rate your ability to lead and integrate multiple environmental programs to ensure consistent implementation of statewide policies, procedures, and rules?

• None: No exposure to environmental program or policy management.
• Foundational: Basic awareness of program structures and policy implementation.
• Intermediate: Manages program elements with guidance; participates in coordinating policy implementation.
• Advanced: Independently leads programs and ensures consistent statewide implementation of policies and procedures.
• Expert: Sets direction for integrated program management and mentors others on statewide policy alignment.

11

How would you rate your ability to collaborate with federal, state, local, and Tribal partners to negotiate agreements and advance shared environmental goals?

• None: No exposure to intergovernmental or multiple-partner coordination.
• Foundational: Basic awareness of intergovernmental processes; limited interaction with partners.
• Intermediate: Participates in coordination efforts and helps develop agreements with guidance.
• Advanced: Independently collaborates with multiple levels of government and successfully negotiates agreements.
• Expert: Recognized authority who leads complex multi jurisdictional negotiations and shapes broad environmental collaborations.

12

How would you rate your ability to allocate resources, make staffing decisions, and develop a workforce that supports effective program delivery?

• None: No exposure to resource or workforce decisions.
• Foundational: Basic understanding of staffing or budgeting concepts; limited involvement.
• Intermediate: Makes some resource or staffing recommendations with guidance; participates in workforce development.
• Advanced: Independently allocates resources, manages staffing decisions, and actively develops staff capabilities.
• Expert: Sets agency level workforce strategies, optimizes resource allocations across programs, and mentors leaders in stewardship.

13

How would you rate your ability to authorize, issue, or approve permits, enforcement actions, and legal decisions related to environmental compliance?

• None: No exposure to regulatory or compliance processes.
• Foundational: Basic awareness of permitting or enforcement concepts.
• Intermediate: Performs regulatory tasks with guidance; assists with permit or enforcement reviews.
• Advanced: Independently carries out permitting and enforcement responsibilities and ensures consistent compliance decisions.
• Expert: Recognized subject matter authority who sets regulatory direction and mentors others in compliance oversight.

14

How would you rate your ability to interpret and apply environmental statutes (e.g., SEPA, SMA, CZMA, Section 401) to ensure defensible and consistent decisions?

• None: No exposure to environmental statutes or regulatory interpretation.
• Foundational: Basic understanding of relevant statutes; limited application experience.
• Intermediate: Applies statutes with guidance and prepares components of defensible regulatory decisions.
• Advanced: Independently interprets and applies statutes to produce consistent, defensible decisions.
• Expert: Recognized authority in environmental law application; mentors staff and shapes regulatory interpretation practices.

15

How would you rate your experience integrating statutory responsibilities across environmental programs to support watershed-based management and cross program alignment?

• None: No experience with watershed or cross program integration.
• Foundational: Basic awareness of watershed management concepts.
• Intermediate: Participates in cross program coordination with guidance; contributes to watershed-based efforts.
• Advanced: Independently integrates program responsibilities and leads watershed-based planning or coordination.
• Expert: Recognized leader who establishes integrated watershed approaches across multiple programs and mentors others.

16

How would you rate your proficiency in developing rules and statewide guidance to ensure consistent, legally sound implementation across diverse jurisdictions?

• None: No exposure to rulemaking or guidance development.
• Foundational: Basic understanding of rulemaking concepts.
• Intermediate: Contributes to rule or guidance development with assistance; drafts components.
• Advanced: Independently develops rules and guidance that ensure consistent, defensible implementation.
• Expert: Leads major rulemaking efforts, sets statewide direction, and mentors others in developing legally sound guidance.

17

Please provide additional details to support your responses to questions 7 - 16 above. The following information is needed: specific duties or activities where skills were developed, and the capacity in which they were developed (education, employment, volunteer or lived experience). Make sure your response specifically addresses each of the qualification below: 1. Strategic Leadership, Budget and Planning - Proven track record setting clear vision and direction to guide managers and staff toward achieving long-term agency- and program goals, including the development of annual and biannual plans and budgets that articulate future direction. 2. Ethical and Inclusive Leadership - Demonstrated proficiency in modeling high ethical standards and fostering a diverse, equitable, and respectful workplace to support effective public service. 3. Communication and Relationship Building - Proven experience communicating complex information clearly and building strong internal and external partnerships, to include engaging with Tribal governments on natural resources management issues. 4. Program and Policy Management - Demonstrated skills in leading and integrating multiple environmental programs to ensure consistent implementation of statewide policies, procedures, and rules. 5. Intergovernmental and Partner Coordination - Proven track record collaborating with federal, state, local, and Tribal partners to negotiate agreements and advance shared environmental goals. 6. Resource and Workforce Stewardship - Demonstrated proficiency in allocating resources, making staffing decisions, and developing the workforce to support effective program delivery. 7. Regulatory and Compliance Oversight - Demonstrated skills in authorizing, issuing, or approving permits, enforcement actions, and legal decisions to ensure compliance with environmental laws. 8. Environmental Regulatory Expertise - Proven track record interpreting and applying environmental statutes such as SEPA, SMA, CZMA, and Section 401 to ensure defensible and consistent decisions. 9. Watershed and Systems Integration - Experience integrating statutory responsibilities across environmental programs to support watershed-based management and cross-program alignment. 10. Rulemaking and Guidance Development - Demonstrated proficiency in developing rules and statewide guidance to achieve consistent, legally sound implementation across diverse jurisdictions. The details given in your response to this question will be used to validate your responses to questions 7 - 16. Please provide adequate details to demonstrate your proficiency with each requirement. An incomplete answer, including "please see resume" may remove you from further consideration.

18

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. Please tell us, what does it mean for you to have a commitment to DEIR in the workplace? What steps or actions have you taken to demonstrate your commitment previously?

19

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

Employer State of Washington

Address View Job Posting for Agency Information

View Job Posting for Location, Washington, 98504

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