Wastewater Operator Certification Program Assistant (Environmental Specialist 3)

Wastewater Operator Certification Program Assistant (Environmental Specialist 3)

Salary

$59,760.00 - $80,496.00 Annually

Location

Thurston County - Lacey, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

2026-WQ4186-05279

Department

Dept. of Ecology

Division

Water Quality

Opening Date

06/30/2026

Closing Date

Continuous

Salary Information

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

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Description

The salary listed above includes the scheduled 2% general salary increase that goes into effect on July 1, 2026.

Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen

The Department of Ecology is hiring a Wastewater Operator Certification Program Assistant (Environmental Specialist 3) within the Water Quality 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 two days per week is required in the office.

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

Application Timeline:

• Apply by July 14, 2026

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

Duties

Within the Water Quality Program, you will support the mission by assisting Wastewater Treatment Plant Operators maintain certification and grow in their careers through professional growth classes, testing and education. You will be responsible for evaluating and making determinations on Wastewater Operator applications, growth and development continuing education credits, database management, and offering technical assistance to operators and facility managers.

What you will do:

• Review professional growth training requests for relevancy and credit.

• Coordinate and communicate with external training providers about the criteria for courses to be included in the OpCert Program.

• Track and review training and operator certification applications and materials to determine completeness and correctness.

• Maintain and utilize the Operator Certification database in collaboration with the OpCert Lead and IT.

• Provide environmental technical assistance to certified operators, trainers, and applicants by phone, email, and at meetings regarding operator certification regulations and policy.

• Provide technical assistance to permit writers and others in the section for websites, SharePoint, and database functions.

Qualifications

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

Required Qualifications:

Six (6) years of experience and/or education related to the duties of the position, which includes the following:

• Communication and Customer Assistance - Experience in explaining technical or procedural information clearly to help others understand requirements and take needed actions.
• Program and Workflow Management - Experience in organizing tasks and information to keep program activities accurate, timely, and on track.
• Regulatory Analysis and Compliance - Experience in interpreting rules and reviewing applications to make accurate, consistent compliance decisions.
• Data and Information Management - Experience in maintaining and analyzing data to ensure accuracy and support informed program decisions.
• Technology and Systems Proficiency - Experience in using software, databases, and digital tools to support daily program operations.

Education involving a major study in environmental, physical, or one of the natural sciences; environmental or natural science interdisciplinary studies; environmental planning, or an academic discipline related to the duties of the position.

Examples of how to qualify:

• 6 years of experience.

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

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

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

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

• A Master's degree or above.

Desired Qualifications:

• Accuracy and attention to detail when transcribing a large number of documents.
• Advanced Microsoft Office and Excel skills for merging documents and conducting mailings.
• Ability to provide excellent customer service via phone and email to a high rate of incoming requests for assistance.

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 Katie Rathmell at Katie.Rathmell@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 Water Quality Program

The mission of the Water Quality Program is to ensure that all aquatic life, and communities in the watershed, experience cool, clean water to refresh and sustain us in a changing climate. Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTPs) serve an essential function to protect public health and the environment, including Washington's rivers, lakes, streams, and Puget Sound.

This position, in the Permit and Technical Services (PTS) Section, supports this mission by assisting Wastewater Treatment Plant Operators (WWTPOs) to attain professional certification and maintain their certificates through professional growth opportunities.

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.

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 related to the duties of this position, which include the following: • Communication and Customer Assistance - Experience in explaining technical or procedural information clearly to help others understand requirements and take needed actions. • Program and Workflow Management - Experience in organizing tasks and information to keep program activities accurate, timely, and on track. • Regulatory Analysis and Compliance - Experience in interpreting rules and reviewing applications to make accurate, consistent compliance decisions. • Data and Information Management - Experience in maintaining and analyzing data to ensure accuracy and support informed program decisions. • Technology and Systems Proficiency - Experience in using software, databases, and digital tools to support daily program operations. • Process Improvement and Problem Solving - Experience in identifying issues and recommending improvements to make program workflows more efficient and effective. Please include any experience gained through employment, internships, and/or volunteer positions. Note that experience gained from academic coursework, class projects, or other degree requirements is assessed in later questions.

• One year
• Two years
• Three years
• Four years
• Five years
• Six or more years
• None of the above

05

Which statement best describes your current proficiency in explaining technical or procedural information clearly to help others understand requirements and take needed actions?

• None - I have not explained technical or procedural information to customers or coworkers.
• Foundational - I can share basic information and may assist others under supervision, but I rely on guidance to ensure clarity and accuracy.
• Intermediate - I can explain most technical or procedural information clearly by following established guidance, seeking help for complex or unfamiliar situations.
• Advanced - I independently communicate complex or technical requirements in ways that are easy for others to understand and use, consistently ensuring accuracy.
• Expert - I provide communication guidance to others, support staff in clarifying technical information, and help shape communication practices or materials.

06

Which statement best describes your current proficiency in organizing tasks, managing timelines, and keeping program activities accurate and on track?

• None - I have not been responsible for managing program tasks or workflows.
• Foundational - I can complete assigned tasks and follow basic workflow steps with supervision to stay on track.
• Intermediate - I manage my tasks and deadlines effectively, keeping work organized and accurate, occasionally seeking direction for complex scheduling or prioritization.
• Advanced - I independently coordinate tasks, timelines, and workflow steps to ensure accuracy, timely completion, and smooth program operations.
• Expert - I guide others in workflow planning, develop or refine work processes, and help ensure program-wide consistency and efficiency.

07

Which statement best describes your current proficiency in interpreting rules and reviewing applications to make accurate, consistent compliance decisions?

• None - I have not reviewed applications or interpreted regulations for compliance.
• Foundational - I have basic exposure to regulatory requirements and can assist with straightforward reviews under close guidance.
• Intermediate - I interpret rules and apply them accurately in most situations, seeking clarification for complex or unusual compliance questions.
• Advanced - I independently review applications, interpret regulations, and make accurate, consistent compliance decisions across varied scenarios.
• Expert - I support others in interpreting regulations, handle highly complex compliance matters, and contribute to guidance or process development.

08

Which statement best describes your current proficiency in maintaining, verifying, and analyzing data to support program decisions?

• None - I have not worked with program data or data systems.
• Foundational - I can enter, retrieve, or review data with supervision and understand basic data accuracy requirements.
• Intermediate - I maintain accurate data, perform basic analysis, and verify information, seeking guidance on complex datasets or analytical needs.
• Advanced - I independently ensure data accuracy, perform analyses, and use information to support reliable program decisions or reporting.
• Expert - I advise others on data standards or analysis methods, troubleshoot data issues, and help improve systems or data-management processes.

09

Which statement best describes your current proficiency in using software, databases, and digital tools to support daily program operations?

• None - I have limited or no experience using the systems or tools required in this program.
• Foundational - I can complete basic tasks in required systems with supervision or training and am developing comfort with core tools.
• Intermediate - I use standard tools and systems effectively and can complete most tasks independently, seeking help with advanced features.
• Advanced - I independently and efficiently use systems, databases, and digital tools to complete complex tasks or troubleshoot common issues.
• Expert - I support others in system use, assist with troubleshooting or advanced functions, and help improve digital workflows or system practices.

10

Which statement best describes your current proficiency in identifying issues, analyzing root causes, and recommending workflow improvements?

• None - I have not been involved in identifying or resolving workflow issues.
• Foundational - I can recognize straightforward issues and report them, relying on guidance to analyze causes or suggest solutions.
• Intermediate - I identify workflow problems, analyze contributing factors, and offer practical improvement ideas with some support.
• Advanced - I independently analyze workflow issues, identify root causes, and recommend or implement effective improvements.
• Expert - I lead or guide process-improvement efforts, support others in developing problem-solving skills, and help strengthen program-wide efficiency.

11

Please provide additional details to support your responses to questions 4-10 above. The following information is needed: position title(s), specific duties, and periods of employment. Make sure your response specifically addresses the qualifications above. An incomplete answer, including "please see resume" may remove you from further consideration.

12

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 or above
• None of the above

13

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.

14

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?

15

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