What are the responsibilities and job description for the Streamflow Hydrologist (Hydrogeologist 2) position at State of Washington Dept. of Ecology?
Description
Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen
The Department of Ecology is hiring a Streamflow Hydrologist (Hydrogeologist 2) within the Environmental Assessment Program.
Location:
- Central Region Office in Union Gap, WA.
- Upon hire, you must live within a commutable distance from the duty station.
Schedule:
- 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.
Application Timeline:
- Apply by July 30, 2026
- Applications submitted after the date above may not be reviewed unless additional qualified applicants are needed.
Duties
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, reviewing data for completeness and overall quality and providing field support to keep stations on-line and reporting accurate information.
What you will do:
- Using sound scientific principles, select measurement points that are representative of the measurement 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 the change 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 and/or making upgrades as necessary.
- Act as a resource to other agencies and groups that require technical assistance in regards to stream discharge measurement.
Qualifications
For detailed information on how we calculate experience and responses to other frequently asked questions, please visit our Recruitment website.
Required Qualifications:
Six years of experience and/or education as described below:
Experience: in hydrogeology, hydrology, geology or closely allied profession
Experience must include demonstrated competence in the following skill sets:- 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.
Education: involving a major study in hydrogeology, hydrology, geology or closely allied field.
Examples of how to qualify:
- 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.
Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment:
- Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
Desired Qualifications:
- Communication – Ability to clearly share information verbally and in writing to support accurate, effective, and professional interactions.
- Workload & Time Management – Ability to plan, organize, and prioritize tasks to meet deadlines and maintain steady workflow.
- Professional Conduct – Ability to maintain a calm, respectful, and professional demeanor to support a positive and inclusive work environment.
- Project Coordination – Ability to organize field logistics, equipment, and schedules to support efficient and successful project execution.
- Scientific Judgment – Ability to interpret environmental data and apply scientific principles to provide objective recommendations.
- Hydrologic Monitoring– Ability to operate, maintain, and troubleshoot stream gages and related equipment to collect reliable hydrologic data.
- Telemetry & Data Systems – Ability to install, operate, and maintain telemetry and data logger systems to support continuous data collection.
- Environmental Sampling – Ability to use scientific instruments and sampling methods to collect water quality or biological data that support environmental assessments.
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 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 or careers@ecy.wa.gov
- 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 Scott Tarbutton at Scott.Tarbutton@ecy.wa.gov
- 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 careers@ecy.wa.gov
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. This position is in the Modeling/TMDL/Groundwater Unit within Eastern Operations Section and will be in the Central Region Office in Union Gap.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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Benefits:
Health Insurance, Vacation & Paid Time Off, Retirement PlanSalary : $67,704 - $91,104