Environmental Assistant – Transportation Planning Specialist 2



Environmental Assistant – Transportation Planning Specialist 2

Salary

$56,856.00 - $76,416.00 Annually

Location

Clark County – Vancouver, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Job Number

21DOT-SWR-40815

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Southwest Region

Opening Date

10/20/2021

Closing Date

11/3/2021 11:59 PM Pacific

Description



About WSDOT
Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is the steward of an integrated, multimodal transportation system that helps to ensure people and goods move safely and efficiently throughout the state. In addition to building, maintaining, and operating the state highway system, WSDOT operates the largest ferry system in the nation, manages the world's longest floating bridge, and recently completed the world's widest tunneling project. 
 
The Opportunity
WSDOT has an exciting opportunity for a motivated professional who is passionate about the environment to join the Southwest Region Environmental Services team in Vancouver, WA. The Environmental Assistant will directly support the transportation needs of Washington State and be a part of the exciting work WSDOT is doing to meet environmental stewardship goals. This position will be responsible for providing environmental support to projects for scoping, design, construction, and post-construction efforts to meet National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) environmental review and permitting requirements. You will also aid in planning and conducting transportation studies related to biological resources and other environmental technical disciplines to meet regulatory requirements. You will have the opportunity to perform site visits, collaborate with engineers, biologists, archaeologists, landscape architects and assist in finding creative environmental solutions.

What to Expect
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, you will:

  • Prepare and contribute to the development of environmental documentation and permit applications (Environmental Review Summaries, Environmental Classification Summaries, SEPA checklists, Joint Aquatic Resource Permit Applications, Hydraulic Project Approvals, Shoreline Permit applications, Land Use Permit Applications, etc).
  • Communicate scheduled completion dates to customers (Environmental Coordinators or design/construction team) for tasks and/or projects you are responsible for.
  • Develop scope, schedule, and budget for the required environmental processes during the project scoping/definition phase. 
  • Collect field data as needed to support permit and other requirements, including wetland delineations, wetland reports, and preparing Endangered Species Act (ESA) documentation.
  • Organize project files and other office resource files as needed. Maintain hard copy and electronic files for projects directly assigned. 
  • Support the Environmental Coordinators and Biology staff with environmental compliance before and during construction. 
  • Conduct field reviews of environmental conditions including sensitive areas, review temporary sediment erosion control plans, spill prevention and control countermeasures (SPCC) plans, spill prevention and control countermeasures (SPCC) plans and review best management practices (BMP) installations for region construction projects as assigned. 
  • Monitor assigned projects to ensure environmental compliance during construction and make professional recommendations based on field reviews. 
  • Assure that all environmental laws, rules, regulations, and policies are followed on all aspects of the construction program by providing data entry and management of environmental commitments in the Commitment Tracking System (CTS) database and development of environmental special provisions. 
  • Prepare environmental commitment notebooks for preconstruction meetings. 
  • Perform construction site fish exclusion activities for maintenance and construction permit compliance.
  • Attend meetings, training and conferences as needed for professional development and coordinate with other environmental professionals within WSDOT for continued professional development.
  • Provide input and support the development of relevant procedures and guidance. 
  • Conduct formal and informal training on current and developing environmental issues as requested by regional personnel. 

Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity, the following are required:
  • Ability to effectively communicate with various internal and external customers, both verbally and in writing.
  • Ability to use of various software programs including Word, Excel, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). 
  • Ability to use field equipment including shovels, machetes, augers, electroshocking backpack, dip nets and hand tools.
  • Ability to travel within the Southwest Region for projects site visits or meetings with stakeholders and occasional statewide travel for training.
  • Basic knowledge and understanding of how the following laws and regulations apply to transportation projects: 
    1. National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)
    2. State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA)
    3. Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act
    4. Endangered Species Act
    5. Clean Water Act 

In addition to the above qualifications, one of the following is also required:
  • Bachelor’s Degree involving major study in landscape architecture, environmental studies, planning, biology, or natural or physical sciences AND one (1) year of professional experience in the fields listed above. Professional experience involving transportation and/or engineering issues will also be considered qualifying experience, OR 
  • Associate Degree in one of the fields listed above AND two (2) years of professional experience in the fields listed above, OR
  • Four (4) years of professional experience in the fields listed above, OR
  • Master’s Degree in the academic fields listed above.
 
It is preferred that qualified candidates also have: 
  • Experience preparing NEPA and SEPA documents and permit applications.
  • Experience using Geographic Information Systems.
  • Certified Erosion and Spill Control Lead (CESCL) Certification.
  • Experience delineating wetlands.
  • Experience identifying native and non-native plants.
  • Experience identifying juvenile salmonids typically found in Washington. Trained and knowledgeable in WSDOT fish moving protocol.
  • Experience completing Endangered Species Act documentation (Biological Assessments and Programmatic forms).
  • Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) Certified Inspector.
 
Important Notes 
  • This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions throughout the Region per business needs.
  • By issuance of proclamation, the Governor of Washington State mandates that all employees who work for executive cabinet agencies (which includes the Department of Transportation) must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. This is a condition of employment with WSDOT. Exemption may be granted for religious or medical purposes, however, accommodations will be subject to approval based on the essential functions required of the position.
 
Why WSDOT 
  • Work-Life Balance – We offer flexible work schedules that allow you time for your life outside of this excellent opportunity.
  • Paid Leave – In addition to 10 paid holidays, full-time employees 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. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, disabled and Vietnam era veterans, as well as people of all sexual orientations and gender identities 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. For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov.
 
Contact us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter, Rachel Giese at GieseR@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 21DOT-SWR-40815 in the subject line.

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, are entitled to three (3) 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 12-31-2022

01
Please select which best describes your education:
  • Master's degree in landscape architecture, environmental studies, planning, biology, natural or physical sciences, transportation, engineering or related field
  • Bachelor's degree in landscape architecture, environmental studies, planning, biology, natural or physical sciences, transportation, engineering or related field
  • Associates degree in landscape architecture, environmental studies, planning, biology, natural or physical sciences, transportation, engineering or related field
  • My degree is in another field
  • I do not have any of the above
02
Please list your degree field is the space below. If no degree, indicate N/A.
03
How many years of professional experience do you have in the field of landscape architecture, environmental studies, planning, biology, natural or physical sciences, transportation, engineering or equivalent experience such as a Transportation Planning Specialist 1 or Transportation Engineer 1?
  • Less than 1 year
  • 1-2 years
  • 2-3 years
  • 3-4 years
  • 4-5 years
  • 5-6 years
  • 6-7 years
  • 7-8 years
  • More than 8 years
04
Do you have experience preparing NEPA and SEPA documentation and/or permit applications?
  • Yes
  • No
05
Do you have experience using Geographic Information Systems (GIS)?
  • Yes
  • No
06
Do you have a Certified Erosion and Spill Control Lead (CESCL) Certification?
  • Yes
  • No
07
Do you have experience delineating wetlands?
  • Yes
  • No
08
Do you have experience identifying native and non-native plants?
  • Yes
  • No
09
Do you have experience identifying juvenile salmonids typically found in Washington?
  • Yes
  • No
10
Do you have experience completing Endangered Species Act documentation?
  • Yes
  • No
11
Do you have an Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) certification?
  • Yes
  • No
12
How did you learn of this employment opportunity?
  • Indeed
  • LinkedIn
  • Direct Email Notification
  • Career Fair
  • Monster
  • WorkSource
  • Handshake
  • AASHTO
  • NACTO
  • APWA
  • WSDOT Employment Site
  • Careers.wa.gov
  • governmentjobs.com
  • Other (specify below)
13
If you selected 'Other' on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:
14
By issuance of proclamation, the Governor of Washington State mandates that all employees who work for executive cabinet agencies (which includes the Department of Transportation) must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Are you willing to accept and comply with this condition of employment?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

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