Lacey or Shoreline

Oil Spill Drill Specialist (Environmental Planner 3)

Hybrid$72,804 - $97,944/yrPosted 3 weeks ago

Job details

Location: Lacey or Shoreline
Work type: Hybrid
Compensation: $72,804 - $97,944/yr
Posted: 3 weeks ago
Apply on: governmentjobs.com

About this role

About the Department

Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen

The Department of Ecology is hiring an Oil Spill Drill Specialist (Environmental Planner 3) within the Spill Prevention, Preparedness, and Response Program.

Location Options:

This position can be based at any of the following duty stations:

Headquarters Office in Lacey, WA.
Northwest Region Office in Shoreline, WA.

Upon hire, you must live within a commutable distance from the selected duty station.

Note: If the selected duty station is the Northwest Region Office in Shoreline, the salary will include an additional 5% premium pay due to its location in King County. Salary range: $6,067 - $8,162 monthly.

Schedule:

This position is eligible for telework and flexible schedule options.
A minimum of one day per week is required in the office.
Schedules are dependent upon position needs and are subject to change.

Application Timeline:

Apply by October 18, 2026
Applications submitted after the date above may not be reviewed unless additional qualified applicants are needed.

Position Duties

In this role, you will manage multiple oil spill drills at different stages of completion while ensuring each one meets detailed regulatory expectations. You will interpret complex requirements, develop realistic and effective drill scenarios, and evaluate performance with consistency and fairness. You will also balance simultaneous deadlines, coordinate with many organizations, and ensure accurate documentation, all of which require strong organization and sustained focus. You also review drill evaluation reports prepared by others, which means you must pay close attention to detail, use sound judgment, and maintain high quality across a significant amount of information.

In this position, you shape Washington’s oil spill readiness by designing and evaluating drills that directly influence preparedness and environmental protection. You will work closely with operators of facilities, pipelines, railroads, vessels, and specialized response contractors, giving you an inside view into the broader response community. Each drill you design or evaluate brings new scenarios, technologies, and problem-solving opportunities, keeping your work dynamic and intellectually engaging. You will also support real-world spill responses through your participation on the Incident Management Team and involvement in spill events, connecting your preparedness work to real outcomes on the ground.

What you will do:

Design, coordinate, and manage multiple oil spill drills to verify the effectiveness of contingency plans.
Establish drill objectives, scope, scenarios, and evaluation criteria that meet regulatory requirements.
Evaluate drill performance objectively and document findings, trends, and lessons learned.
Conduct final reviews of drill evaluations to ensure accuracy, clarity, quality, and consistent data entry.
Facilitate meetings with regulated industry, contractors, and other involved groups, providing technical guidance throughout the drill design process.
Provide administrative support to the Unit Supervisor, including drill data reporting, quality assurance, and development of team resources.
Participate in spill response activities as part of the Incident Management Team and through the Preparedness Pager Duty roster.
Track, schedule, and ensure completion of all required drills and design meetings within annual and triennial cycles.

Minimum Qualifications

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

Required Qualifications:

8 years of experience and/or education related to the duties of the position, which includes the following:

Communication – Ability to clearly share information to support effective collaboration. Ability to work respectfully with others and maintain professionalism to support a productive work environment.
Critical Thinking and Judgment – Ability to assess information and apply sound judgment to make effective decisions and solve problems.
Time and Task Management – Ability to organize and prioritize work to manage multiple responsibilities and meet deadlines.
Documentation – Ability to document work and maintain accurate records.
Project and Activity Coordination – Ability to plan, organize, and guide work activities to ensure tasks and required events are completed on schedule.
Evaluation and Quality Review – Ability to objectively review processes, activities, and documents to ensure accuracy, clarity, and effectiveness.
Facilitation and Interested Party Engagement – Ability to lead discussions with internal and external partners to share information, resolve issues, and support program goals.
Data and Information Management – Ability to use databases and tracking systems to maintain accurate records and support reporting needs.
Field Operations – Ability to safely work in field environments (including but not limited to oil handling facilities, vessels, and near spill sites) and use personal protective equipment.

Education: Involving a major study in environmental science, law, or policy; geography; public administration with an environmental emphasis; emergency management; or closely related field.

Examples of how to qualify:

8 years of experience.
7 years of experience AND 30-59 semester or 45-89 quarter college credits.
6 years of experience AND 60-89 semester or 90-134 quarter college credits (Associate’s degree).
5 years of experience AND 90-119 semester or 135-179 quarter college credits.
4 years of experience AND a Bachelor’s degree.
2 years of experience AND a Master’s degree.
1 years of experience AND a Ph.D.

Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment:

This position is part of the Spills Program Incident Management Team (IMT) and Crisis Management Team and is required to complete and maintain continual training as required by the Program for IMT position qualifications. This training will be provided after employment begins.
40-hour HAZWOPER certification and annual 8-hour refresher. This training will be provided after employment begins.
Must be able to obtain and maintain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC). This can be obtained after employment begins at no cost to the employee.
Hold and maintain eligibility and certification to permit travel to and from Canada, including passport or Enhanced Driver’s License.

Desired Qualifications:

Incident Command System (ICS) – Knowledge of the ICS and the national response system framework. Experience applying these principles to oil spill responses
Oil Spill Drill Design and Evaluation
Oil Spill Planning and Preparedness

If you are excited about this role and meet the required qualifications, we encourage you to apply. Desired qualifications reflect additional knowledge, skills, or experience that are nice to have but not required. Studies have shown that some applicants, especially women and people of color, are less likely to apply unless they meet every listed qualification. At the Department of Ecology, we are dedicated to building a diverse and authentic workplace centered in belonging, and we welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and unique perspectives.

Other Qualifications

Ecology does not use the E-Verify system; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov.

Our Commitment to DEIR

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Respect (DEIR) are core values central to Ecology's work. We strive to be a workplace where we are esteemed for sharing our authentic identities, while advancing our individual professional goals and collaborating to protect, preserve, and enhance the environment for current and future generations.

Diversity: We celebrate and appreciate diversity; our unique perspectives and abilities enrich us all and lead to innovative approaches and solutions.

Equity: We champion equity, recognizing that each of us need different things to thrive.

Inclusion: We intentionally create and hold space so that we all have meaningful opportunities to participate and contribute to Ecology’s work.

Respect: We treat each other with respect and dignity, acknowledging the inherent worth of our diverse perspectives and lived experiences, even in times of uncertainty and disagreement.

We believe that DEIR is both a goal and an action. We are on a journey, honoring our shared humanity and taking steps to demonstrate our commitment to a vision where each of us is heard, seen, and valued.

Application Process

Ecology seeks diverse applicants: We view diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect through a broad lens including race, ethnicity, class, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, immigration status, military background, language, education, life experience, physical disability, neurodiversity, and intersectional identities. Qualified job seekers from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

How to Apply

Click “Apply” at the top of this page. Complete the entire application, including full work history and responses to all supplemental questions, and attach:

Cover letter, describing your interest in and qualifications for this position
Resume

Because we base our selection on the information you provide, it is in your best interest to complete the application thoroughly. A resume will not substitute for the “work experience” section of the application or vice versa. Applications with blank fields or supplemental question responses with comments such as “see resume” may be considered incomplete.

For detailed application information, please visit our Recruitment website.

Application Attestation: By submitting an application, you are affirming that the information contained in your application and on all attachments is complete and truthful. The state may verify this information, and any false or misleading answers may result in rejection of your application or dismissal if employed.

Need an Accommodation?

If you need reasonable accommodation during the application and/or screening process, including this job announcement in an alternate format:

Please contact us at 360-407-6186 and select #2 for Recruitment or email [email protected]
If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 711 or 1-800-833-6384.

Questions?

For specific questions about the position location options, schedule, or duties, please contact Matt Bissell at [email protected]
If you need assistance applying for this job, are inquiring about the status of your application, would like to request the full position description, or have any other questions, please contact the Recruitment Team at [email protected]

About the Spill Prevention, Preparedness, and Response Program

The Spills Program's mission is to protect, preserve, and restore Washington's environment. Our vision is to create a zero spills world. The Spill’s Program’s Preparedness Section works with our regulated and response community to prepare for worst-case scenarios across the state through contingency planning, regional and area planning, drills and exercise, and equipment inspection. By joining the Preparedness Section, you are joining a team of high performing professionals to protect Washington’s environment.

About the Department of Ecology

As the State of Washington’s environmental protection agency, we are deeply committed to protecting, preserving, and enhancing Washington’s environment for current and future generations. Joining Ecology means becoming part of a team dedicated to protecting and sustaining healthy land, air, water, and climate in harmony with a strong economy. A career in public service at Ecology allows you to help solve some of the most challenging problems facing our state, while keeping your health and financial security a priority. We combine one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation with a strong commitment to life/work balance. We invest in our employees to create and sustain a working environment that encourages creative leadership, effective resource management, teamwork, professionalism, and accountability.

Ecology employees may be eligible for the following: Medical/Dental/Vision for employee & dependent(s), Public Employees Retirement System (PERS), Vacation, Sick, and other Leave*, 11 Paid Holidays per year*, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, Tuition Waiver, Long Term Disability & Life Insurance, Deferred Compensation Programs, Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP), Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA), Employee Assistance Program, Commute Trip Reduction Incentive, Combined Fund Drive, SmartHealth *Click here for more information

To learn more about Ecology, please visit our website, explore Working at Ecology, check out our Strategic Plan, and connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, or our blog.

Equal Opportunity Employer: 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.

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

Note: This recruitment may be used to fill other positions of the same job classification across the agency. Once all the position(s) from the recruitment announcement are filled, the recruitment may only be used to fill additional open positions for the next sixty (60) days.

#LI-Hybrid

Benefits

More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.

We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.

Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.

Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.

Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.

Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.

To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.

Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.

Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.

The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.

Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.

Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.

Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.

Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.

Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.

Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.

Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.

Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.

Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.

Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

As provided in WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.

Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.

Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.

Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.

Additional Leave
Leave Sharing
Parental Leave
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 01-07-2026

Supplemental Questions

How did you hear about this job?

Community Based Organization
Community / Technical College
Ecology Employee
Ecology Recruiter
Ecology Jobs Page
Facebook
Job Board
Job Fair
LinkedIn
Newspaper
Other State Agency
Other Website
Professional Association
University Job Board
WorkSource
Other

If you selected Community Based Organization, Community / Technical College, Job Board, Job Fair, LinkedIn Group, Newspaper, Other State Agency, Other Website, Professional Association, University Job Board, WorkSource, or Other, please share which one.

Have you ever worked for the Department of Ecology in any capacity including: Permanent, Non-Permanent, Project, Intern, or Volunteer?

How many years of experience do you have related to the duties of this position? Please include any experience gained through employment, internships, and/or volunteer positions. Note that experience gained from academic coursework, class projects, or other degree requirements is assessed in later questions.

One year
Two years
Three years
Four years
Five years
Six years
Seven years
Eight years
None of the above

Please provide additional details to support your response above. The following information is needed: position title(s), specific duties, and periods of employment. Make sure your response specifically addresses the qualification above. An incomplete answer, including "please see resume" may remove you from further consideration.

What is your level of education involving a major study in environmental science, law, or policy; geography; public administration with an environmental emphasis; emergency management; or closely related field?

30-59 semester or 45-89 quarter college credits
60-89 semester or 90-134 quarter college credits (Associate's degree)
90-119 semester or 135-179 quarter college credits
Bachelor's degree
Master's degree
Ph.D.
None of the above

If you have college credits or a degree, please list your major(s) or field(s) of study and any degree(s) earned. If you don't have this education, put N/A.

The State of Washington and the Department of Ecology, play a vital role in fostering a Diverse, Equitable, Inclusive, and Respectful (DEIR) workplace and contributing to equitable outcomes for the communities we serve. We view DEIR through a broad lens including: race, ethnicity, class, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, immigration status, military background, language, education, life experience, physical disability, neurodiversity, and intersectional identities. We believe it is everyone's job to contribute to a DEIR workplace. What experiences have you had working with people whose backgrounds are very different from your own? What impact did those experiences have on how you worked?

Are you able to obtain and maintain a valid driver's license?

I understand that Ecology does not use the E-Verify system and is unable to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT).

How would you rate your ability to clearly share information, collaborate respectfully with others, and maintain clarity and professionalism under stressful conditions?

None: No exposure to professional communication expectations or respectful collaboration practices.
Foundational: Basic awareness of communication principles; can share simple information but may need support to communicate respectfully or maintain clarity during stress.
Intermediate: Communicates effectively in routine situations with some guidance; developing the ability to stay clear, respectful, and professional when situations become stressful or complex.
Advanced: Independently communicates clearly, respectfully, and professionally across diverse situations; consistently maintains clarity and constructive interactions even under stressful conditions.
Expert: Recognized resource for communication; models and mentors respectful, high-clarity communication and leads challenging or high-pressure discussions with professionalism.