Environmental Specialist - Transportation Planning Specialist 3

About WSDOT The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal agency with a global reputation for excellence. Our dedicated workforce plans, designs, builds, and operates an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state. In addition to maintaining over 20,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, manages the world's longest floating bridge, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation! The Opportunity WSDOT's North Central Region (NCR) is seeking an Environmental Specialist to support the agency's mission of providing safe, reliable, and environmentally responsible transportation systems. In this role, you will ensure transportation projects comply with local, state, and federal environmental regulations by supporting project scoping and design, preparing environmental documentation, and securing permits and approvals. This position also conducts field investigations, supports construction compliance, and partners with internal teams, regulatory agencies, and tribal partners to advance projects while protecting Washington's natural and cultural resources. What to Expect Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Environmental Specialist will: Identify and track environmental tasks for the design, permitting, and construction of transportation projects. Provide technical support to environmental and regional staff in hazmat, wetlands, cultural resources, and biological resources. Prepare, review, and edit technical documents to demonstrate compliance and obtain environmental permits and approvals. Review project design plans and contracts for consistency with environmental conditions and regulatory commitments. Plan and conduct field investigations and site inspections for maintenance, construction, and environmental mitigation projects. Collect, interpret, analyze, and report field data to support project review and decision-making. Maintain environmental permit files, documentation, and tracking systems in compliance with records retention requirements. Participate in trainings, workshops, and professional development to stay current with environmental policies and permitting requirements. Qualifications To be considered for this opportunity, the following competencies are required :

Environmental Processes and Permitting:

Applied experience analyzing environmental conditions, evaluating project impacts, determining applicable environmental documents, and preparing compliant submittals for local, state, and federal regulatory agencies. Proven competency in coordinating environmental permitting activities with regulatory agencies, project teams, and external stakeholders to ensure compliance with environmental laws, agency guidance, and project timelines.

Communication and Collaboration:

Strong written and verbal communications skills with the ability to communicate clearly and collaborate effectively with diverse audiences.

Time Management and Independent Work:

Ability to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines and work independently in a dynamic environment.

Digital and Technical Proficiency:

Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and virtual collaboration tools; ability to learn and apply new systems or software.

Growth Mindset:

Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.

Service-Oriented:

Demonstrates a willingness to take action to meet the needs of others. In addition to the competencies above, the following are also required : A valid driver's license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles. Ability to travel to perform field and project-related duties. Ability to traverse rough, steep, and uneven terrain in all weather conditions. It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:

Environmental Documentation and Permitting:

Demonstrated experience completing environmental documentation and permitting for transportation projects. Including a strong understanding of NEPA and SEPA processes and document preparation.

Professional Certification:

Current Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) Building Inspector certification or the ability to obtain it within one (1) year of employment. Important Notes This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options. Some local and regional travel is required to review project locations and environmental resources, training, and to meet with tribes, agencies, and jurisdictions for permitting needs. In addition to base salary, employees may be entitled to other forms of compensation depending on the type, duties, or location of the position. For union-represented positions, more information on other forms of compensation can be found in the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreements . Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in Chapter 357-28 of the Washington Administrative Code. This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs. WSDOT 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 . Why WSDOT Work-Life Balance

• We are committed to ensure that our staff experience the reward of public service, while also sustaining a routine that suits each individuals' lifestyle. Employees in this position enjoy a standard daytime schedule, working Monday-Friday only, with weekends off. Paid Leave
• In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees may earn up to 25 paid vacation days per year! Tuition Assistance
• Permanent employees have several options for assistance with education expenses, including tuition reimbursement programs, government discounts at participating colleges throughout the state, and eligibility for federal student loan forgiveness. Plan For Your Future
• WSDOT offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options.

Employees also have their choice of state retirement programs, and much more. Go to State Benefits for more information. Check out this video to learn more: Why WSDOT? How to Apply Applications for this recruitment will be accepted electronically. Your relevant experience may be evaluated to determine salary. Therefore, it is very important that the "Work Experience" portion of the application be completed in as much detail as possible. In order to be considered for this opportunity, please include the following with your online application: An attached Resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date. An attached Cover Letter that further explains your qualifications and indicates why you believe you are a viable candidate for this role. Contact details for a minimum three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job-related competencies. This information can be entered in the "References" section of the online application; does not require an additional attachment. Please click the "APPLY" button to proceed. Note that you will be prompted to either sign in or create an account. This step is required in order to submit an application to this opportunity. WSDOT is an equal opportunity employer. We value the importance of creating an environment in which all employees can feel respected, included, and empowered to bring unique ideas to the agency. Our diversity and inclusion efforts include embracing different cultures, backgrounds and viewpoints while fostering growth and advancement in the workplace. All persons, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, and/ or gender identity, are encouraged to apply. Persons with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the listed Recruiter. WSDOT 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 . Contact Us For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at Daisha.

Jordan@wsdot.wa.gov . Please be sure to reference 26DOT-NCR-24685 in the subject line.