Staff Scientist (Natural Resource Scientist 2)

Staff Scientist (Natural Resource Scientist 2)

Salary

$67,704.00 - $91,104.00 Annually

Location

Thurston County - Lacey, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

2026-EAP4393-09129

Department

Dept. of Ecology

Division

Environmental Assessment

Opening Date

11/05/2026

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 Staff Scientist (Natural Resource Scientist 2) within the Environmental Assessment Program.

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 day per week is required in the office during the training period. The telework schedule can be re-evaluated after the training period.

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

Application Timeline:

• Apply by November 19, 2026

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

Duties

As a staff scientist in the Toxics Studies Unit (TSU), you will be responsible for: (1) assisting in the coordination EAP's Environmental Information Management database by providing data entry, user support, training, and quality control of data entries and submittals, (2) working with TSU's senior scientist to assist in providing technical expertise to the Water Quality Program on the toxics portion of the statewide water quality assessment, and (3) providing intermittent assistance in the field collecting samples to assess toxics in the environment.

What you will do:

• Support the lead senior scientist with the technical assessment for toxics in tissue and water using Ecology's Water Quality Assessment Automation (WQAA) application.
• In coordination with the lead toxics senior scientist, transform, sort, clean, and filter toxics assessment data files for upload into Ecology's Water Quality Assessment Tracking System database (WATS).
• Train and mentor existing and new EAP staff in EIM data management techniques.
• Assist in the development of training materials for new staff by direction of Ecology's EIM lead.
• Act as the first point of contact and lead on assisting program staff with EIM data submittal requirements and process. Respond promptly to requests or questions about data submittals from program staff. Requires familiarity with all EIM systems and resources as well as applicable associated program resources.
• Performs testing, with oversight by the lead toxics senior scientist, on the WQAA application to implement enhancements and bug-fixes.
• Assist the senior toxics scientist in responding to comments and feedback on draft water quality assessment results.

Qualifications

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

Required Qualifications:

A total of 7 years of experience and/or education related to the duties of the position, which includes the following:

• Teamwork and Collaboration - Ability to work effectively with coworkers and partners to support shared scientific and data management goals.
• Clear Communication - Ability to explain information in a way others can understand to support consistent processes and informed decision-making.
• Problem Solving - Ability to identify issues, evaluate options, and recommend solutions to maintain data accuracy and improve systems.
• Data Management - Ability to organize, clean, and prepare environmental data to ensure it is complete, accurate, and ready for database upload.
• Training and Coaching - Ability to teach staff how to use systems and follow data processes so they can work more confidently and independently.
• Documentation and Guidance - Ability to create clear instructions and reference materials to help staff understand data standards and submission requirements.
• Environmental Data Analysis - Ability to review and interpret environmental data to support accurate assessments of toxics in water and tissue.
• Database System Use - Ability to use agency data systems to enter, track, and review environmental data according to program requirements.
• Data Integration - Ability to combine field, lab, and contract data into complete datasets to support uploads and program reporting.
• Software Proficiency - Ability to use standard office software and collaboration tools to prepare documents, manage data, and communicate with staff.

Education involving a major study in natural science, data management, or related field.

Examples of how to qualify:

• 7 years of experience.

• 6 years of experience AND 30-59 semester or 45-89 quarter college credits.

• 5 years of experience AND 60-89 semester or 90-134 quarter college credits (Associate's degree).

• 4 years of experience AND 90-119 semester or 135-179 quarter college credits.

• 3 years of experience AND a Bachelor's degree.

• 1 years of experience AND a Master's degree.

• a Ph.D.

Desired Qualifications:

• Knowledge of scientific research methods.
• Working knowledge of chemical properties and analytical methods.
• Experience in managing large databases.
• Adaptability - Ability to adjust to changing tools, procedures, and priorities to keep work moving smoothly.
• Service Orientation - Ability to respond promptly and helpfully to staff questions to ensure timely and accurate data submissions.
• Program Representation - Ability to represent program needs and perspectives in workgroups to support system improvements and consistent practices.
• Workload Coordination - Ability to manage multiple data and system tasks to meet deadlines and produce reliable assessment results.
• Application Testing - Ability to test system changes and identify issues to help improve reliability and user experience.

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 and select #2 for Recruitment or email 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 James Medlen at James.Medlen@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 Environmental Assessment Program

The mission of the Environmental Assessment Program (EAP) is to measure, assess, and communicate environmental conditions in Washington State. We work to improve the environment for current and future generations through innovative and excellent science and thriving partnerships. This position is based out of Ecology headquarters in the Environmental Assessment Programs Statewide Coordination Section, Toxics Studies Unit. The Toxics Studies unit mission is as follows: Our team identifies and assesses toxic contaminants in Washington's environment through scientific monitoring & research, to support informed decisions that protect human health, wildlife, and the natural resources of Washington.

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 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 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.

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
• 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 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 with a major study in natural science, data management, or related field?

• 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

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

I understand that Ecology does not use the E-Verify system and is unable to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT).

• Yes
• No

10

Please rate your experience working with coworkers, program staff, technical teams, and external partners to support shared scientific, environmental, or data management work.

• None: No experience working with others on scientific, environmental, or data management projects.
• Foundational: Have participated in team projects and understand the importance of coordinating work with others, but have had limited responsibility for collaborative tasks.
• Intermediate: Regularly work with others to complete assignments, share information, and coordinate activities with some guidance.
• Advanced: Independently build and maintain productive working relationships, coordinate efforts across groups, and contribute to successful project outcomes.
• Expert: Lead complex collaborative efforts, resolve challenges between groups, and guide others in effective teamwork practices.

11

Please rate your experience explaining technical, scientific, or data-related information in a way that others can understand and use.

• None: No experience communicating technical, scientific, or data-related information to others.
• Foundational: Can share basic information and ask clarifying questions but have limited experience explaining technical topics.
• Intermediate: Routinely communicate procedures, findings, or requirements to others with some guidance.
• Advanced: Independently explain complex information clearly to a variety of audiences and support informed decisions.
• Expert: Recognized as a trusted resource who develops communication approaches, mentors others, and translates highly complex topics into understandable information.

12

Please rate your experience identifying problems, evaluating options, and recommending solutions related to data, systems, or work processes.

• None: No experience identifying or resolving data, system, or process issues.
• Foundational: Can recognize basic issues and contribute ideas for resolving them with guidance.
• Intermediate: Regularly investigate issues, compare potential solutions, and assist with implementing improvements.
• Advanced: Independently analyze root causes, develop effective solutions, and implement improvements with successful outcomes.
• Expert: Lead complex problem-solving efforts, establish solution strategies, and mentor others in analytical approaches.

13

Please rate your experience organizing, cleaning, validating, and preparing environmental or scientific data for use in databases or reporting.

• None: No experience managing environmental, scientific, or technical datasets.
• Foundational: Have basic exposure to data organization or quality review through training, coursework, or limited work assignments.
• Intermediate: Perform routine data cleaning, validation, and preparation tasks with some guidance.
• Advanced: Independently ensure data quality, resolve data issues, and prepare complete datasets for database use or reporting.
• Expert: Lead development of data management practices, establish quality standards, and provide guidance on complex data issues.

14

Please rate your experience training, coaching, or supporting others in the use of systems, tools, or data-related processes.

• None: No experience training or coaching others.
• Foundational: Have provided occasional guidance or demonstrated basic tasks to coworkers or peers.
• Intermediate: Regularly train others on procedures, systems, or processes with established materials and guidance.
• Advanced: Independently develop and deliver training, answer questions, and help others increase their skills and confidence.
• Expert: Lead training programs, mentor trainers, and establish approaches for workforce learning and knowledge transfer.

15

Please rate your experience developing written instructions, reference materials, or guidance documents related to data or technical processes.

• None: No experience creating written instructions or guidance materials.
• Foundational: Have assisted with updating or using existing documentation but have limited experience creating it.
• Intermediate: Prepare routine instructions, procedures, or guidance documents with some review or guidance.
• Advanced: Independently develop clear, accurate, and useful documentation that supports consistent work practices.
• Expert: Establish documentation standards, oversee major guidance development efforts, and mentor others in technical writing.

16

Please rate your experience reviewing and interpreting environmental data, such as water quality, tissue, contaminant, or other environmental monitoring results.

• None: No experience reviewing or interpreting environmental data.
• Foundational: Have basic knowledge of environmental datasets through coursework, training, or limited work assignments.
• Intermediate: Review and interpret environmental data with some guidance and contribute to assessments or reporting.
• Advanced: Independently evaluate environmental datasets, identify patterns or concerns, and support technical conclusions.
• Expert: Recognized authority in environmental data analysis who guides methodology, interpretation, and technical decision-making.

17

Please rate your experience using database systems to enter, track, update, review, or retrieve environmental or scientific data.

• None: No experience using database systems for environmental or scientific data.
• Foundational: Have basic exposure to database systems through training or limited data entry tasks.
• Intermediate: Regularly enter, update, review, and retrieve data using established database procedures with some guidance.
• Advanced: Independently use database systems to manage records, resolve data issues, and ensure data quality.
• Expert: Serve as a primary resource on database use, provide guidance on system processes, and help improve data management practices.

18

Please rate your experience combining information from multiple sources, such as field data, laboratory results, contract deliverables, or monitoring datasets, into complete and usable datasets.

• None: No experience combining data from multiple sources.
• Foundational: Have basic exposure to compiling data from more than one source but with limited responsibility for the final dataset.
• Intermediate: Regularly combine and verify data from multiple sources with some guidance.
• Advanced: Independently integrate complex datasets, resolve inconsistencies, and prepare data for reporting or database upload.
• Expert: Lead large or complex data integration efforts, establish integration methods, and provide guidance on data consistency and quality.

19

Please rate your experience using office software and collaboration tools to prepare documents, manage data, communicate information, and support daily work activities.

• None: No experience using office software or collaboration tools in a work setting.
• Foundational: Can perform basic tasks using common software applications with limited experience.
• Intermediate: Regularly use office and collaboration tools to manage documents, track information, and communicate with others.
• Advanced: Independently use a variety of software tools to manage data, create reports, support collaboration, and improve efficiency.
• Expert: Serve as a resource for advanced software use, develop solutions or guidance for others, and help improve tool utilization across a work group.

20

If you feel you have not already demonstrated your proficiency in the required competencies elsewhere in your application, you are encouraged to use this space to provide any additional details that help illustrate your experience and capabilities in the areas listed below. While this question is optional, providing clear evidence of your competence in these fields will strengthen your application. Please share any additional information that further demonstrates your proficiency in the following required competencies: • Teamwork and Collaboration - Ability to work effectively with coworkers and partners to support shared scientific and data management goals. • Clear Communication - Ability to explain information in a way others can understand to support consistent processes and informed decision making. • Problem Solving - Ability to identify issues, evaluate options, and recommend solutions to maintain data accuracy and improve systems. • Data Management - Ability to organize, clean, and prepare environmental data to ensure it is complete, accurate, and ready for database upload. • Training and Coaching - Ability to teach staff how to use systems and follow data processes so they can work more confidently and independently. • Documentation and Guidance - Ability to create clear instructions and reference materials to help staff understand data standards and submission requirements. • Environmental Data Analysis - Ability to review and interpret environmental data to support accurate assessments of toxics in water and tissue. • Database System Use - Ability to use agency data systems to enter, track, and review environmental data according to program requirements. • Data Integration - Ability to combine field, lab, and contract data into complete datasets to support uploads and program reporting. • Software Proficiency - Ability to use standard office software and collaboration tools to prepare documents, manage data, and communicate with staff.

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