Evaporator Regulatory Lead; Environmental Specialist

Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen

242-A Evaporator Regulatory Lead (Environmental Specialist
4) within the Tank Waste Treatment Section of the Nuclear Waste Program.

• Richland Field Office in Richland, WA.
• Must live within a commutable distance from the duty station.

• Eligible for telework and flexible schedule options.
• Minimum one in‑office day per week and two site visits per month.
• Schedules dependent on position needs and subject to change.

Oversee permitting and regulatory compliance for the 242‑A Evaporator, a key system for handling high‑level and highly toxic waste. Lead a team of engineers and chemists, review technical documents, develop permit requirements, and collaborate with DOE, EPA, and other agencies. Address complex environmental challenges, guide regulatory decisions, and play a central role in the cleanup of one of the nation’s most challenging nuclear waste sites.

• Oversee development, review, and compliance of the 242‑A Evaporator permit to ensure adherence to state and federal regulations.
• Review technical documents and operational data to develop regulatory strategies, alternative approaches, and permit conditions.
• Negotiate permit requirements, cleanup conditions, and variance requests with DOE, contractors, EPA, and other agencies.
• Lead and coordinate a team of engineers and chemists, providing guidance on technical reviews and compliance issues.
• Conduct site visits and field oversight to verify compliance with permits and environmental regulations.
• Respond to public comments and present technical information clearly in meetings and briefings.
• Provide regulatory expertise and testimony as needed for permit decisions or related legal proceedings.
• Coordinate with the Double‑Shell Tank Systems regulatory team to support integrated coverage of connected waste systems.

• Ten (9) years of experience and/or education in environmental, physical, or natural sciences, interdisciplinary environmental or natural science studies, environmental planning, or related academic discipline.
• Experience performing environmental‑based work or work related to the duties, including:
  • Reviewing and interpreting technical or regulatory documents for compliance, accuracy, and completeness.
  • Developing, implementing, or overseeing technical procedures, policies, or permits.
  • Coordinating multidisciplinary teams or technical specialists to achieve compliance and project goals.
  • Communicating, presenting, or negotiating technical or regulatory information to external agencies, contractors, or the public.
• Demonstrated competence in regulatory knowledge and application, permit development and negotiation, technical guidance, critical and analytical thinking, information assessment, and data analysis.

• Knowledge of tank waste systems and RCRA regulations, understanding of tank systems, treatment processes, and hazardous/mixed waste permitting.

• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license.
• Must meet DOE requirements to acquire and maintain a badge for access to the Hanford Site.
• Must complete 40‑hour HAZWOPER training within six months of appointment and annual refreshers.

The Washington State Department of Ecology is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applicants regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or any other protected status.