Hydrogeologist

Hydrogeologist 1 – Environmental Assessment Program (EAP)

The Department of Ecology seeks a Hydrogeologist 1 to support environmental assessment within the Environmental Assessment Program (EAP).

Headquarters Office in Lacey, WA. Must live within commuting distance of the duty station upon hire.

This position may work telework with flexible schedule options and a combination of field work and office work. Telework is possible for most office duties; occasional in‑person meetings may be required. Schedules are subject to change based on position needs.

Apply by June 14, 2026. Applications after this date may not be reviewed unless additional qualified applicants are needed.

In this role, you will experience a mix of fieldwork, data analysis, and scientific investigation, working in rivers, lakes, and stream systems as well as in office and laboratory settings, collecting and interpreting data to help the state understand changing water quality and hydrologic conditions. You will manage multiple monitoring efforts, handle complex environmental datasets, support modeling, and communicate findings.

• Collect freshwater and marine water samples according to established field procedures and quality‑assurance requirements.
• Operate, calibrate, maintain, and troubleshoot field instruments and sampling equipment.
• Compile, process, and analyze hydrologic, meteorological, and water‑quality datasets using R, Python, MATLAB, GIS, or similar tools.
• Support water‑quality and TMDL modeling efforts by preparing datasets, reviewing model output, and assisting with visualization and interpretation.
• Prepare clear technical documentation, including field notes, reports, data summaries, and figures, and communicate results through written and oral presentations.
• Manage field logistics: pre‑sampling notifications, bottle orders, sample submission forms, and coordination with laboratory staff.
• Load, review, and maintain environmental data in agency databases to ensure accuracy and completeness.
• Participate in multiple monitoring or research projects, supporting study design, implementation, quality assurance, and reporting activities.

Minimum five (5) years of experience and/or education in hydrogeology, hydrology, geology, watershed or marine water modeling technical support, or closely allied profession. Proficiency in at least one of R, Python, or MATLAB is required.

• Field Data Collection – Ability to safely collect accurate water‑quality and hydrologic data in the field following QA procedures.
• Data Compilation and Analysis – Ability to compile, process, and analyze environmental data to support scientific conclusions.
• Technical Tools and Software – Ability to develop, modify, and run scripts for data processing, modeling, and mapping; use R, Python, MATLAB, GIS, or similar software.
• Equipment Operation and Maintenance – Ability to safely operate, calibrate, and maintain field instruments; proficiency with boats, including uncrewed autonomous vessels, in rivers and lakes.
• Communication – Ability to convey findings in writing and presentations.
• Time and Workload Management – Ability to plan, prioritize, and organize work to meet field schedules, project timelines, and reporting deadlines.

Education in hydrogeology, hydrology, geology, or closely allied fields. Must be proficient in at least one of R, Python, or MATLAB.

• 5 years of experience.
• 4 years of experience AND 30–59 semester (or 45–89 quarter) college credits.
• 3 years of experience AND 60–89 semester (or 90–134 quarter) credits (Associate’s degree).
• 2 years of experience AND 90–119 semester (or 135–179 quarter) credits.
• 1 year of experience AND a Bachelor’s degree.
• Master’s degree or above.

• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license.

• Proficiency in freshwater hydrological and water‑quality measurement techniques.
• Proficiency in numerical and spatial data analysis, familiarity with watershed or marine modeling, and understanding of the TMDL program and watershed management issues.
• Computer scripting (Python, R, MATLAB) for mapping, statistical/spatial analysis, and data visualization.
• Application of standard methods for determining discharge, contaminant extent, and boundary conditions for estuarine or stream flow.

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, gender identity, disability, and other diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply.