Hydrogeologist; Hydrogeologist ; In Training

Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen

Environmental Assessment Program – Staff Hydrogeologist (Hydrogeologist 3, In‑Training)

Central Region Office, Union Gap, Washington. Candidates must live within a commutable distance of the duty station.

Salary includes 7.5% assignment pay.

• Hydrogeologist 2: $5,531 – $7,443 monthly.
• Hydrogeologist 3: $6,565 – $8,825 monthly.

• Eligible for telework and flexible schedule options.
• Field work required. Mondays and Wednesdays are in‑office days; other days without field work may be teleworked.

• Apply by May 17, 2026.

Provide field and office support in developing and implementing scientifically credible, well‑coordinated monitoring programs for Central and Eastern Washington water resources. Serve as field lead for the Lower Yakima Valley Groundwater Management Area Land Use and Groundwater Study efforts, manage groundwater monitoring for the Lower Yakima Valley Ambient Groundwater Monitoring Network, analyze datasets, write reports, and maintain data in the Environmental Information Management System (EIM).

• Analyze data using advanced statistical and hydrologic modeling techniques, formulate and justify conclusions, and provide recommendations.
• Report status and results of studies to management, staff, the public, and interest groups.
• Direct and prepare technical reports and present findings at scientific conferences, universities, and advisory groups.
• Train other staff in water quality modeling, research, and investigative techniques.
• Attend professional meetings, conferences, and seminars.

• Minimum of five years of professional experience in hydrogeology, hydrology, geology, or a closely related field.
• Experience in groundwater investigations, including aquifer characterization, groundwater flow analysis, and contaminant fate and transport.
• Technical writing, reporting, and publication experience.
• Hands‑on experience with environmental data management and metadata standards; ability to upload and manage datasets in EIM or equivalent systems.
• Field sampling experience with QA/QC practices, including purge methods, low‑flow sampling, and chain‑of‑custody.
• Possession of a valid Washington State Geologist license and Hydrogeologist Specialty license (required for Hydrogeologist 3 level).

Major study in hydrogeology, hydrology, geology, or a closely allied field.

• Knowledge of state and federal water laws and standards.
• HAZWOPER 40‑hour Certification and current 8‑hour refresher.

We are dedicated to diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect. All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply.

The Washington State Department of Ecology is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals.