Streamflow Hydrologist; Hydrogeologist

Environmental Assessment Program – Streamflow Hydrologist (Hydrogeologist
2)

The Department of Ecology is hiring a Streamflow Hydrologist (Hydrogeologist
2) within the Environmental Assessment Program. The position is located at the Central Region Office in Union Gap, WA. Upon hire, the employee must live within a commutable distance from the duty station.

• This position is eligible for telework and flexible schedule options.
• This position requires field work. Mondays and Wednesdays are in‑office days; other days that do not involve field work can be teleworked.
• Schedules are dependent upon position needs and are subject to change.

• Apply by July 30, 2026.
• Applications submitted after this date may not be reviewed unless additional qualified applicants are needed.

In this role, you will collect and process credible stream hydrology information for river systems or basins that are reliable, accurate, and timely. You will possess and demonstrate the skills required to install and operate stream gages in the assigned geographical area. You will also evaluate and develop rating curves, review data for completeness and overall quality, and provide field support to keep stations online and reporting accurate information.

• Use sound scientific principles to select measurement points that are representative of stream discharge.
• Develop individual state discharge rating curves for each measurement site by taking flow measurements that define this relationship over the entire flow regime.
• Carry out cross‑section measurements at individual measurement sites so that accurate calculations can confirm the stage‑discharge rating curves developed.
• Track changes in channel cross‑section over time and adjust the stage‑discharge rating table.
• Install, operate, and maintain water stage height telemetry systems.
• Download data loggers and service telemetry systems or make upgrades as necessary.
• Act as a resource to other agencies and groups that require technical assistance with stream discharge measurement.

For detailed information on how we calculate experience and responses to other frequently asked questions, please visit our Recruitment website.

Six years of experience and/or education as described below:

In hydrogeology, hydrology, geology or closely allied profession.

• Teamwork & Collaboration – Ability to work respectfully and cooperatively with others to support shared goals and maintain productive working relationships.
• Adaptability – Ability to adjust to changing field conditions, project demands, and new technologies to remain effective in varied situations.
• Critical Thinking & Problem Solving – Ability to interpret information, troubleshoot issues, and make sound decisions to resolve problems and support program objectives.
• Field Operations – Ability to plan, prepare for, and conduct fieldwork safely and effectively to collect accurate environmental data.
• Hydrologic Measurement & Analysis – Ability to measure stream flow and channel characteristics to develop and update accurate stage‑discharge rating curves.
• Data Quality & Management – Ability to record, review, and maintain accurate data and notes to ensure data integrity and support scientific analyses. Ability to enter, validate, and analyze data using databases and standard office software to support accurate reporting.
• Equipment & Vehicle Operation – Ability to safely operate field equipment, tools, vehicles, and/or boats to access sites and maintain monitoring stations.

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

• 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 college credits (Associate’s degree).
• 3 years of experience AND 90‑119 semester or 135‑179 quarter college credits.
• 2 years of experience AND a Bachelor’s degree.
• A Master’s degree or higher.

• Must possess and maintain a valid driver's…