Salary : $74,748.00 - $100,488.00 Annually
Location : Kitsap County - Manchester, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 2026-EAP54225431-06578
Department: Dept. of Ecology
Division: Environmental Assessment
Opening Date: 08/13/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Salary Information: The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step

Description
Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen
The Department of Ecology is hiring two Environmental Laboratory Auditor - Inorganic Chemistry (Chemist 3) positions within the
Location:

Laboratory Accreditation Office in Manchester, WA
Upon hire, you must live within a commutable distance from the duty station.

Schedule:

The positions must work in-person at the Laboratory Accreditation Office on Mondays, our weekly Team Day, with additional on-site days required during onboarding and training.
The positions conduct some fieldwork at laboratories throughout Washington state, mostly in the western region.
After onboarding and training is complete, the positions are eligible for telework and flexible schedule options.
Schedules are dependent upon position needs and are subject to change.

Application Timeline:

Apply by August 27, 2026
Applications submitted after the date above may not be reviewed unless additional qualified applicants are needed.

Duties
As a Chemist 3, you will help protect Washington's environment and public health by accrediting environmental laboratories. In this role, you will perform laboratory assessments for inorganic chemistry testing procedures, with a primary focus on wastewater laboratories at wastewater treatment plant facilities. This position offers meaningful scientific work with opportunities to broaden your technical expertise, support statewide environmental initiatives, and play an important role in maintaining the integrity of Washington's laboratory accreditation program.
What you will do:

Processes applications for laboratory accreditation.
Review quality assurance manuals, standard operating procedures, analytical data, and performance testing results submitted in support of applications for accreditation.
Make recommendations to the Laboratory Accreditation Unit supervisor on whether laboratories can produce accurate and defensible analytical data.
Prepare correspondence informing laboratories of their accreditation status.
Conduct mostly on-site and occasional virtual audits of laboratories, either independently or in collaboration with a microbiology auditor.
Prepare reports of audit findings and recommend corrective actions to improve laboratory procedures.
Track compliance with audit findings.
Provide technical support to wastewater treatment plant laboratories at municipal and industrial facilities.

Qualifications
For detailed information on how we calculate experience and responses to other frequently asked questions, please visit our
Required Qualifications:

Eight (8) years of experience and/or education related to the duties of the position, which must include all the following:

Scientific Method Application (Inorganic Chemistry) - Demonstrated ability to evaluate laboratory procedures, QA/QC, SOPs, and analytical data for inorganic chemistry, to ensure published methods are correctly and consistently used. Follows established protocols and applies discipline-specific knowledge to support laboratory accreditation standards.
Collaborative Communication - Demonstrated ability to work cooperatively with colleagues, partners, and customers while communicating clearly and respectfully in writing and verbally. Shares information openly, documents work effectively, and builds strong, trusting relationships to support shared goals and successful outcomes.
Attention to Detail - Ability to review documents, data, and procedures carefully to ensure accuracy and traceability.
Problem Solving - Ability to identify issues, analyze information, and recommend practical solutions to improve work processes and outcomes.
Technical Assistance - Ability to explain processes, answer questions, and provide guidance to help environmental laboratories understand and meet accreditation standards.

Education involving a major study in chemistry, environmental science, microbiology, or a related scientific field with a minimum of 30 semester hours or 45 quarter hours of college-level chemistry.
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 year of experience AND a PhD.

Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment:

Must be able to obtain and maintain a federal EPASS for the Manchester Lab facility.

Desired Qualifications:

Professional Judgment - Ability to evaluate information and apply guidelines appropriately to make fair, well-supported recommendations.
Adaptability - Ability to adjust to changes in procedures, priorities, or technology to stay effective in the role.
Regulatory Understanding - Ability to apply established standards and requirements to ensure work is completed in compliance with applicable rules.
Audit and Review - Ability to assess work practices and documentation to identify strengths, deficiencies, and needed improvements.
Record Management - Ability to organize and maintain accurate records and documentation to support transparency and accountability.
Technology and Software Use - Ability to use databases, spreadsheets, and standard software tools to document work, analyze information, and communicate effectively.

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 helpful 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.
Supplemental Information
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
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
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 [click to reveal phone number]360-407-6186 or
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 Rebecca Wood at
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

About the Environmental Assessment Program

The mission of the Environmental Assessment Program (EAP) is to measure, assess, and communicate environmental conditions in Washington State. We work to improve the environment for current and future generations through innovative and excellent science and thriving partnerships. These positions are in the Laboratory Accreditation Unit within EAP's Business Operations Section.
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: , , *, *, , , & , , , , , , , *Click here for more information
To learn more about Ecology, please visit our , explore , check out our , and connect with us on , , , , or our
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
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 (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 (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 , 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

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
01

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
Twitter
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.
03

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 or more years
None of the above

Please describe your experience working in a laboratory. In your response, include your position title(s), specific laboratory duties, the names of any test methods you used, and the time periods of your experience.

An incomplete answer, including "please see resume" may remove you from further consideration.

Please select all statements that accurately describe your laboratory and/or auditing experience:

I have worked in an environmental testing laboratory.
I have worked in a wastewater laboratory.
I have performed tests for Biochemical Oxygen Demand.
I have performed tests using a probe/ion selective electrode.
I have performed tests using a spectrophotometer/colorimeter.
I have worked at a wastewater treatment facility (municipal or industrial).
I performed laboratory analyses using EPA Test Methods.
I have performed laboratory analyses using the book "Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater".
I used HACH test methods or equipment.
I have experience with wastewater discharge permits.
I have performed internal audits at a laboratory.
I have been employed as an auditor.
I have been employed as a wastewater plant operator.
None of the above

Which level best describes your current proficiency in evaluating inorganic chemistry laboratory procedures, QA/QC, SOPs, laboratory bench sheets, logs, and analytical data to ensure methods are correctly and consistently followed?

None - I have no experience reviewing inorganic chemistry methods, QA/QC elements, SOPs, laboratory bench sheets, logs, or analytical data.
Foundational - I have basic awareness of inorganic chemistry procedures and quality practices but limited experience evaluating method compliance or data defensibility.
Intermediate - I can review inorganic chemistry procedures, laboratory bench sheets, logs, and supporting data with some guidance and can identify potential deviations, though complex method evaluations may require support.
Advanced - I independently evaluate laboratory procedures, QA/QC practices, SOPs, laboratory bench sheets, logs, and inorganic analytical data to ensure proper method implementation and defensible results.
Expert - I am a subject matter resource who leads or mentors others in laboratory procedure, QA/QC evaluation, review of laboratory bench sheets and logs, and ensuring adherence to regulatory and analytical standards.

Which level best describes your current proficiency in communicating and collaborating with colleagues, partners, or customers in a manner that supports shared goals and clear understanding of technical information?

None - I have not collaborated or communicated technical laboratory related--information with colleagues, partners, and customers.
Foundational - I can share basic information with guidance and communicate respectfully, though my experience explaining collaborating or documenting work to support group efforts is limited.
Intermediate - I work cooperatively with others and communicate technical information clearly in most situations, sharing information and documenting work with some support. I can contribute effectively to collaborative discussions, though complex topics may require assistance.
Advanced - I independently communicate clearly and respectfully, share information openly, document work effectively, and build strong working relationships in collaborative settings.
Expert - I am recognized for fostering positive, respectful communication and collaboration, mentoring others in effective relationship building, information sharing, and documentation practices to strengthen group success.

Which level best describes your proficiency in reviewing documents, data, and procedures to ensure accuracy, completeness, and traceability?

None - I have no experience reviewing technical documents or analytical data for accuracy or traceability.
Foundational - I can check basic information for accuracy with guidance but have limited experience identifying inconsistencies or documentation gaps.
Intermediate - I review technical documents, data, and procedures with some support and can identify common issues, though complex datasets or documentation may require assistance.
Advanced - I independently review technical documents, analytical data, and procedural records with consistent accuracy, ensuring complete and traceable documentation.
Expert - I am relied upon to lead or mentor others in detailed review processes and in maintaining high standards of data integrity and traceability.

Which level best describes your ability to identify issues, analyze information, and recommend practical solutions to improve laboratory work processes and outcomes?

None - I have no experience identifying or resolving issues in laboratory or technical workflows.
Foundational - I can recognize straightforward issues with guidance but have limited experience analyzing root causes or recommending solutions.
Intermediate - I can identify problems and propose solutions with some support, though complex issues may require additional assistance.
Advanced - I independently analyze laboratory or technical issues and recommend practical, defensible solutions that improve processes or outcomes.
Expert - I am recognized for directing or mentoring others in problem-solving and in developing or refining processes to improve quality and efficiency.

Which level best describes your proficiency in explaining laboratory processes, answering technical questions, and providing guidance that helps others understand and carry out inorganic chemistry

None - I have no experience providing technical assistance on laboratory processes or inorganic chemistry work.
Foundational - I can provide basic explanations with guidance but have limited experience assisting others with understanding laboratory tasks or technical requirements.
Intermediate - I can explain laboratory procedures and answer routine technical questions with some support, though more complex guidance or troubleshooting may require assistance.
Advanced - I independently provide clear, accurate explanations of laboratory processes, respond to questions effectively, and help others understand and complete inorganic chemistry-related work.
Expert - I am recognized as a technical resource who offers authoritative guidance, training, and support, helping others strengthen their understanding and performance of laboratory processes and improve analytical quality.

What is your level of education?

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, any degree(s) earned, and indicate the number of college-level chemistry credits you have completed. If you don't have this education, put N/A.
14

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?
15

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

Required Question

Environmental Laboratory Auditor - Inorganic Chemistry (Chemist 3) (2 positions)

Environmental Laboratory Auditor - Inorganic Chemistry (Chemist 3) (2 positions)

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