Hydrogeologist

Hydrogeologist 4 – Nuclear Waste Program

Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen

The Department of Ecology is hiring a Hydrogeologist 4 within the Nuclear Waste Program. The role provides expert guidance on groundwater and vadose zone conditions that inform cleanup and regulatory decisions at the Hanford Tank Farms. This position offers the opportunity to work on complex hydrogeologic challenges, influence long‑term environmental outcomes, and serve as the program’s technical authority on leak evaluations and groundwater impacts.

Richland Field Office in Richland, WA. Upon hire, the employee must live within commutable distance from the duty station.

Salary includes 7.5% assignment pay due to required licensure.

Eligible for telework and flexible schedule options. Telework most of the work time, with at least one in‑office day every other week and occasional fieldwork to observe sampling or drilling activities. Schedules are subject to position needs.

• Evaluate DOE and contractor determinations of past and present single‑shell tank (SST) leaks.
• Review RCRA facility investigations, scientific studies, remediation plans, sampling plans, and other compliance documents related to groundwater, vadose zone, and surface water contamination at the Hanford Site.
• Develop hydrogeologic recommendations for project managers, the senior groundwater specialist, other site‑wide specialists, and section managers.
• Evaluate permit requests for groundwater wells and monitoring.
• Review engineering reports and annual RCRA and CERCLA groundwater reports.
• Work collaboratively with chemists, engineers, toxicologists, and regulatory specialists to support environmental remediation.
• Review and interpret vadose zone and groundwater fate‑and‑transport modeling to inform cleanup and closure planning for the SST farms.
• Plan, organize, and lead regulatory aspects of hydrogeologic investigations of subsurface conditions.

• Possession of a Washington State Geologist license and a Washington State Hydrogeologist specialty license.
• Nine (9) years of experience and/or education in hydrogeology, hydrology, geology, or a closely allied profession.
• Demonstrated competence in the following skillsets:
  • Advanced knowledge of physical and natural sciences to evaluate vadose zone, groundwater, and surface water quality, quantity, and basin‑wide management.
  • Data analysis and interpretation of complex monitoring data to assess trends, risks, and compliance.
  • Critical thinking and application of state and federal regulations, including Water Code, Ground Water Quality Standards, and Dangerous Waste Regulations.
  • Communication and technical writing skills for preparing and reviewing high‑level technical reports, bulletins, and guidance documents.
  • Regulatory interpretation and compliance, including advanced technical review of RCRA permitting, CERCLA decisions, groundwater well installation requests, and monitoring systems.
  • Education involving a major study in hydrogeology, hydrology, geology, or a closely allied field.
• Examples of how to qualify (experience + education thresholds):
  • 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 college credits (Associate’s degree).
  • 6 years of experience AND 90‑119 semester or 135‑179 quarter college credits.
  • 5 years of experience AND a Bachelor’s degree.
  • 3 years of experience AND a Master’s degree.
  • 2 years of experience AND a Ph.D.

• Must possess a Washington State Geologist license and a Washington State Hydrogeologist specialty license.
• Must meet U.S. Department of Energy requirements to acquire and maintain a badge for access to the Hanford Site.
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license.

Individuals interested in applying and who believe they meet licensing requirements for the State of Washington based on reciprocity are responsible for ensuring they meet those requirements prior to submitting application materials. Licensing information can be found at the WA State Licensing (DOL) Official Site.

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.

This position is covered by a bargaining unit for which the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) is the exclusive representative.