Environmental Inspector - Underground Storage Tanks; Environmental Specialist

Environmental Inspector - Underground Storage Tanks (Environmental Specialist
3)

Location: Eastern Region Office in Spokane, WA. Must live within a commutable distance from the duty station.

Schedule: Eligible for telework and flexible schedule options. A minimum of three days per week in the office or field during the first six months of onboarding is required. Subsequent flexible schedule options may be available upon successful completion of the probationary period.

Application Timeline: Apply by July 26, 2026.

• Travel to facilities to conduct UST inspections in accordance with EPA technical compliance guidance and independently apply professional judgment to identify violations and determine corrective actions.
• Perform UST system installation, retrofit, and decommissioning inspections to ensure work meets regulatory and environmental protection standards.
• Issue enforcement actions consistent with the UST Inspector Enforcement Manual and follow up with responsible parties to return facilities to compliance.
• Investigate complaints of suspected leaking underground storage tanks, document findings, and recommend next steps.
• Provide technical assistance and education to UST owners, operators, contractors, and internal staff on UST regulations, forms, and compliance requirements.
• Serve as a regional point of contact for external customers on UST‑related questions and issues.
• Coordinate with owners, operators, contractors, and local governments on complex UST projects, contributing to special projects such as developing or updating guidance, tools, and resources for inspectors.
• Maintain accurate and complete UST files and databases by reviewing submittals, documenting compliance data, and supporting performance measures related to UST compliance.

• Six years of experience and/or education related to the duties of the position. Six years can be achieved through a combination of experience, education, and related certifications.
• Critical and Analytical Thinking – evaluate complex environmental information, field observations, and technical data to identify issues, compare options, and determine effective compliance or environmental protection actions.
• Judgment and Decision Making – assess risks, impacts, and regulatory requirements to make timely, well‑supported decisions that uphold program objectives and regulatory consistency.
• Communication of Rules and Procedures – explain environmental regulations, program requirements, and procedural steps clearly to regulated parties and the public.
• Communication and Collaboration – coordinate with internal teams, other organizations, and regulated entities to share information, problem‑solve, and support consistent program implementation.
• Systems and Equipment Interpretation – understand how environmental systems, equipment, or operational processes function to assess performance, compliance, or potential environmental risk.
• Data and Documentation Management – organize, review, and interpret technical data, inspection records, and reports to support accurate tracking, defensible documentation, and program reporting.
• Investigation and Field Assessment – conduct field inspections, gather evidence, and document findings to establish compliance status and support follow‑up or enforcement actions.
• Technical Assistance – provide clear guidance on environmental requirements, operational practices, and compliance expectations to help regulated parties improve performance and reduce environmental risk.

• Underground Storage Tank (UST) Systems Knowledge – evaluate design, components, and operation of UST systems to accurately assess compliance and system performance.
• Compliance and Enforcement Experience – conduct compliance evaluations, issue enforcement actions, or support legal processes to improve regulatory adherence.
• Scientific Data Analysis – review, interpret, and synthesize technical or scientific data to support environmental decision‑making and identify compliance trends.
• Regulation Interpretation and Reporting – interpret environmental regulations and prepare reports or compliance documentation to support program requirements and regulatory clarity.
• Data Management Software Proficiency – use databases, spreadsheets, and related software tools to organize information, interpret inspection findings, and support program reporting needs.

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.