Staff Scientist; Natural Resource Scientist

The Department of Ecology is hiring a Staff Scientist
(Natural Resource Scientist
2) within the Environmental Assessment Program.

• Headquarters Office in Lacey, WA.

• Upon hire, you must live within a commutable distance from the duty station.

• 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.

• Apply by November 19, 2026

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

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.

• 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.

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

• 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…