The Pollution Liability Insurance Agency (PLIA) provides an effective and efficient government funding model that helps owners and operators meet financial responsibility and environmental cleanup requirements for underground storage tanks.

As the Hydrogeologist 4, you will serve as an agency hydrogeologic expert, providing oversight and technical direction for specialized environmental cleanup processes.  You will oversee independent hydrogeologic investigations of petroleum-contaminated sites, provide technical peer review for your colleagues, and assist in the technical training of agency staff.

If you are ready for this unique opportunity to support economic and environmental improvement across the state, we encourage you to apply!

Some of what you will be doing:

• Provide direction to agency site managers, and oversight for specialized environmental and hydrogeologic cleanup processes.
• Present expert testimony when needed.
• Coordinate and provide technical review of hydrogeologic projects, plans and reports.
• Recommend approval for further steps necessary to move projects toward closure that meet the substantive requirements of the Model Toxics Control Act (MTCA).
• Meet with agency site managers to direct cleanup review tasks.
• Provide professional implementation of state cleanup laws and regulations.
• Provide training and technical peer review for agency site managers.
• Develop and implement effective and engaging technical trainings under the direction of senior technical staff.

Bachelor’s Degree involving major study in hydrogeology, hydrology, geology, or closely allied field.

AND

Five (5) years professional experience as a Hydrogeologist, Hydrologist, Geologist, or closely allied profession at the Hydrogeologist 2 level, higher or equivalent.

OR

Master’s Degree with major study in hydrogeology, hydrology, geology, or closely allied field will substitute for two years of experience.

OR

Ph.D. Degree will substitute for three years of experience if major research was in hydrogeology, hydrology, geology, or closely allied field.

• Possession of a valid Washington State Geologist License with Hydrogeologist endorsement.
• Expert knowledge relating to hydrogeology, hydrology, geology, well hydraulics and construction standards, field surveying techniques and mapping, water sampling and monitoring techniques and procedures.
• Technical skill in the practices and principles of hydrogeologic investigations.
• Knowledge of the MTCA and/or soil remediation methods for contaminated site cleanups.
• Skilled in groundwater modeling applications.
• Skilled in the interpretation and application of applicable rules, regulations, and policies.
• Skilled in evaluating information obtained and making definitive decisions regarding compliance with state requirements.
• Responds positively to change, embracing and using new practices or values to accomplish goals and solve problems.
• Adapts approach, goals, and methods to achieve solutions and results in dynamic situations.
• Copes well and helps others deal with the ongoing demands of change.
• Integrates executive direction into every decision and consultation.
• Builds relationships with teammates so that coaching efforts are received in a positive, developmental manner.
• Sees opportunities for creative problem solving while staying within the parameters of good practice. Generates unique but workable and useful solutions to difficult problems.
• Focuses on the customer’s business results, rather than own. Goes beyond basic service expectations to help customers implement complete solutions.
• Asks for and uses feedback to improve performance. Seeks and acquires new competencies, work methods, ideas, and information that will improve own efficiency and effectiveness on the job.
• Respects and maintains confidentiality.
• Identifies resources and potential solutions that are practical and effective. Knows and explains where, when, and how to implement those options.
• Knows and supports teammates’ work and deliverables. Helps teammates who need or ask for support or assistance.
• Ability to establish and enhance collaborative working relationships with a wide variety of internal and external stakeholders.
• A valid Washington State Driver’s License.
• Must be able to maintain strict confidentiality and ethical behavior at all times.

Preferred/Desired Qualifications:

Master’s degree in hydrogeology, hydrology, geology, or closely allied field

AND

10 years professional experience as a Hydrogeologist, Hydrologist, Geologist, or closely allied profession at the Hydrogeologist 2 level, higher or equivalent.

• Skilled in fate and transport modeling.
• Possess good communications skills, both written and oral.
• Accept personal responsibility for the quality and timeliness of work.

A letter of interest, describing how you meet the specific qualifications for this position;
A current resume, detailing experience, and education; and
A list of at least three (3) professional references with current telephone numbers.

READ THE FOLLOWING INSTRUCTIONS COMPLETELY:

The initial screening will be solely based on the contents and completeness of the “duties summary” section of your application in Careers.wa.gov, completeness of the application material submitted, and the supplemental questionnaire.

A resume will not substitute for completing the “duties summary” section of the application. Responses to the supplemental questionnaire regarding work experience must be reflected in the “duties summary” section of the application.

By submitting materials you are indicating that all information is true and correct. The state may verify information. Any untruthful or misleading information is cause for removal from the applicant pool or dismissal if employed.

VETERAN’S PREFERENCE

Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications and wish to claim Veteran’s Preference MUST attach a copy of their DD214, or other verification of military service. Please blackout any personally identifiable data such as social security numbers.

For additional information on Veteran’s Preference and guidance on how to determine if you are eligible, click here.

We thank you and are grateful for your service

Should you have any questions regarding this position or the online application, contact Lolo Arevalo at (360) 407-8074 or jobs@des.wa.gov

The State of Washington in committed to creating a diverse and inclusive culture. We encourage women, veterans, people of color, and persons with disabilities to apply. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation or any other characteristic protected by law.

Persons with a disability who need assistance with their application or that need this announcement in an alternative format, may call (360) 664-1960 or toll free (877) 664-1960. TTY users should first call 711 to access the Washington Relay Service.