Central Region Well Construction Coordinator; Hydrogeologist ; In-Training

Central Region Well Construction Coordinator (Hydrogeologist
3) (In-Training)

The Department of Ecology is hiring a Central Region Well Construction Coordinator within the Water Resources Program.

• Central Region Office, Union Gap, WA
• Must live within commutable distance of the duty station upon hire

• Top salary includes 7.5% assignment pay due to licensure

• Eligible for telework and flexible schedule options
• Combination of field and office work; minimum one day per week in office
• Schedules may change based on position needs

• Apply by June 29, 2026
• Late applications may not be reviewed unless needed

• Provide technical assistance to well drillers, owners, government agencies, the public, and Ecology staff.
• Conduct hydrogeologic and other technical analysis of well construction problems, educating on laws and regulations.
• Administer licensing tests for well contractors and manage regional well reports and video scan data.
• Conduct investigations of well construction violations and perform compliance/enforcement actions.
• Prepare formal enforcement documents to ensure compliance with state statutes.
• Testify as an expert witness in Pollution Control Hearings Board or Superior Court hearings on water well construction laws and enforcement.

Pay Range 58: $5,642 - $7,592 monthly (note: does not include assignment pay)

• Six years of experience and/or education related to duties.
• Communication:
  Explain technical and regulatory information clearly.
• Problem Solving:
  Analyze hydrogeologic information and field conditions to identify solutions supporting public safety.
• Regulatory Application:
  Interpret and apply water laws, well construction rules, and policies.
• Investigation:
  Gather facts, evaluate evidence, and document findings for corrective actions.
• Technical Analysis:
  Collect, interpret, and report hydrogeologic and field data.
• Collaboration:
  
  Work effectively with coworkers, external partners, and the public.
• Education:
  
  Major study in hydrogeology, hydrology, geology or closely allied field.

Examples of how to qualify:

• 6 years of experience.
• 5 years of experience and 30–59 semester or 45–89 quarter college credits.
• 4 years of experience and 60–89 semester or 90–134 quarter credits (Associate’s degree).
• 3 years of experience and 90–119 semester or 135–179 quarter credits.
• 2 years of experience and a Bachelor’s degree.
• A Master’s degree or above.

Pay Range 62: $6,696 – $9,002 monthly (includes assignment pay)

• Possession of a valid Washington State Geologist license and Hydrogeologist specialty license.
• Seven years of experience and/or education related to duties.
• Same competencies as above.
• Education:
  
  Major study in hydrogeology, hydrology, geology or closely allied field.

Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment for HG3 Level:

• Possession of Washington State Geologist license and Hydrogeologist specialty license.
• Valid driver’s license.

• Knowledge of geology and hydrogeologic issues in central Washington.
• Experience with Geographic Information Systems software.
• Training and experience in well construction techniques, problems, and alternatives.
• Experience with downhole video, geophysical, or other downhole investigations.
• Experience working around drilling rigs and in the drilling industry, including logging and oversight of well drilling operations.

The Washington State Department of Ecology is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a work environment that 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, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply.

• Medical, dental, and vision care for employees and dependents.
• Public Employees Retirement System (PERS).
• Vacation, sick, and other leave.
• 11 paid holidays per year.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness.
• Tuition waiver.
• Long‑term disability and life insurance.
• Deferred compensation programs.
• Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP).
• Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA).
• Employee Assistance Program.