Evaporator Regulatory Lead; Environmental Specialist

The salary listed above includes the scheduled 2% general salary increase that goes into effect on July 1, 2026.

The Department of Ecology is hiring a 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.
• 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 one in-office day per week and two site visits per month are required.
• Schedules are dependent upon position needs and are subject to change.

• Apply by May 3, 2026.
• This position will remain open until filled. The agency reserves the right to make a hire at any time after application review begins. Applications received after the date above may not be considered.

In this role, you will oversee permitting and regulatory compliance for the 242-A Evaporator, a key system for handling high‑level and highly toxic waste at the Hanford Site. You will lead a team of engineers and chemists, review technical documents, develop permit requirements, and collaborate with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and other agencies.

This position is ideal for someone with strong regulatory expertise, experience in technical review and permitting, and the ability to coordinate across multiple organizations. You will gain experience in nuclear waste management, environmental compliance, and public engagement while supporting critical regulatory work that protects Washington’s environment.

• Oversee the development, review, and compliance of the 242‑A Evaporator permit to ensure adherence to state and federal regulations, including RCRA, air, and hazardous waste requirements.
• 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, ensuring alignment with the Tri‑Party Agreement.
• Lead and coordinate a team of engineers and chemists, providing guidance on technical reviews, off‑normal events, 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.

• 9 years of experience and/or education as described below:
• At least two of the following experience areas:
  • Reviewing and interpreting technical or regulatory documents for compliance, accuracy, and completeness.
  • Developing, implementing, or overseeing technical procedures, policies, or permits.
  • Coordinating multi‑disciplinary 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, Negotiation, and Oversight.
  • Technical Guidance.
  • Critical/analytical thinking and problem‑solving.
  • Reviewing and assessing information and data to draw conclusions.
  • Conducting research and performing data analysis.
• Education in environmental, physical, or natural sciences; or related disciplines.
• Examples of how to qualify:
  • 9 years of experience.
  • 8 years of experience AND 30–59 semester or 45–89 quarter college credits.
  • 7 years of experience AND 60–89 semester or 90–134 quarter credits (Associate’s degree).
  • 6 years of experience AND 90–119 semester or 135–179 quarter credits.
  • 5 years of experience AND a Bachelor’s degree.
  • 3 years of experience AND a Master’s degree or higher.

• Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
• Must meet U.S. Department of Energy requirements to acquire and maintain a…