Product Stewardship Specialist; Environmental Specialist

Product Stewardship Specialist (Environmental Specialist
5)

Location:

Headquarters Office in Lacey, WA. You must live within commutable distance from the duty station.

Schedule:

Eligible for telework and flexible schedule. A minimum of one day per week is required in the office. Fieldwork is included. Schedules are dependent upon position needs and may change.

Apply by June 14, 2026. Applications submitted after this date may be considered only if additional qualified applicants are needed.

In this senior Environmental Specialist position you will help coordinate and lead engagement on Recycling Reform Act implementation with national, state, and local agencies, elected officials, nonprofit organizations, industry associations, commercial and retail entities in accordance with our mission and statutory direction.

• Conduct high‑level statewide policy development and analysis.
• Manage rule development for Recycling Reform Act implementation.
• Coordinate with Product Stewardship staff to develop internal operating policies.
• Provide technical assistance to local governments, manufacturers, producer responsibility organizations, collection sites, processors, Tribes, and other interested parties.
• Work with the Recycling Reform Act lead to ensure implementation timelines are met.
• Lead or participate in discussions on the Recycling Reform Act and related packaging stewardship programs or legislation.

Required Qualifications

• Ten (10) years of experience and/or education in environmental or product stewardship disciplines.
• Demonstrated competence in regulatory interpretation, research and analysis, collaboration, environmental program knowledge, and facilitation.
• Education in environmental, physical, or natural sciences, environmental planning or a related field.
• Experience-education equivalency that meets the required 10‑year threshold.

Desired Qualifications

• Knowledge of solid waste laws and regulations.
• Knowledge of hazardous waste laws and regulations.
• Knowledge of product stewardship, product take‑back, or extended producer responsibility policies, programs, and principles.
• Experience developing technical reports and outreach materials.
• Understanding of negotiation and mediation processes.
• Experience conducting education and outreach campaigns and interpreting or presenting data.

The Washington State Department of Ecology is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds and do not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or any other protected status.