Wetland Permitting Specialist - Environmental Planner

Title – Wetland Permitting Specialist

Classification – Environmental Planner 3

Job Status – Full-Time/Permanent

WDFW Program – Capital and Asset Management Program (CAMP)

Duty Station – Olympia, Washington – Thurston County

Hybrid/Telework – The selected candidate may be able to telework up to two days per week at the discretion of the supervisor.

Play a critical part in advancing construction and capital projects by delivering the wetland science and regulatory support required to secure environmental permits.

Through hands‑on fieldwork, technical analysis, and close coordination with permitting teams and regulatory agencies, the position ensures wetland impacts are accurately assessed, mitigation strategies are developed, and compliance requirements are met.

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Wetland Permitting Specialist will,

• Develop, plan, and coordinate activities associated with wetland delineation preparation. Research, analyze, and record data about the project site.
• Perform fieldwork for wetland delineations throughout the state using an Arrow GPS unit and iPad with Field Maps. Analyze soils, vegetation, and hydrology on site.
• Complete data forms and wetland rating forms during and after field activities.
• Draft, prepare, and submit wetland delineation reports and mitigation plans for the preparation of permit application packages.
• Determine eligibility of consultants to perform work for the agency and recommend the selection of those qualified for state planning.

• Perform seining, sampling, and removal of aquatic species from active construction areas.
• Perform water quality sampling including pH, turbidity, and dissolved oxygen, or other site samples.

• Serve as a technical liaison while coordinating with planning personnel in WDFW and other state departments to determine site constraints, local requirements, and wetland delineation requirements for projects.
• Prepare Biological Assessments and Evaluations, Habitat Management Plans, Mitigation Plans, and other biological documents required for permitting.
• Maintain knowledge of current environmental regulations.

Work Setting, including hazards:
Duties are performed in an office setting and at construction and field sites, including in-water work which requires adhering to safety protocol and utilizing personal protective equipment (PPE). Work in inclement weather, walk on uneven terrain including slippery footing, mud, steep slopes, and other challenging field conditions for extended periods. Climb ladders, work from boats, and from elevated locations. This position may involve working in or near water, including tasks that require navigating, negotiating, and performing duties related to water environments.

Typically, 40 hours per week, Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Workload may require additional hours, and the work schedule may require adjustments to meet business needs. A flexible work schedule may be considered, subject to supervisory approval.

Travel throughout the state using an agency-provided vehicle for fieldwork will be required, with long field days and overnight stays likely to occur. Travel may occur on weekends in rare circumstances. Additional travel throughout the state to attend training, meetings, and conferences may occur.

Pickup trucks, computer hardware and software, cell phone/iPad, Arrow GPS unit, Field Maps, ArcGIS Pro/Online, and field sampling…