Surface Mine Reclamation Specialist, Environmental Specialist 3 (ES3) description image

Surface Mine Reclamation Specialist, Environmental Specialist 3 (ES3)

Salary: $55,224.00 – $74,376.00 Annually
Location: Spokane County – Spokane, WA
Job Type: Full Time – Permanent
Job Number: 2024-3-7192-03952
Department: Dept. of Natural Resources
Opening Date: 03/27/2024
Closing Date: 04/16/2024 11:59 PM Pacific
Category: Environmental Services / Land Use / Natural Resources / Forestry / Green-Collar/Environmental
 
 
 
 
 
Surface Mine Reclamation Specialist, Environmental Specialist 3 (ES3) description image
 

Description

Surface Mine Reclamation Specialist, Environmental Specialist 3
Recruitment #2024-3-7192
Full-time, Permanent, Represented position.
Location: Spokane, WA
Flexible Work Hours and Partial Telework flexibility may be available and considered
Salary: $4,602.00 – $6,198.00 Monthly


Want to join something GREAT and make a difference?
Are you a geologist looking for an opportunity that will contribute to protecting the environment and helping ensure a thriving mineral economy throughout Washington state? The Washington Geological Survey’s Surface Mine Reclamation regulatory program administers the Surface Mining Act (RCW 78.44), and we’re looking to hire a Surface Mine Reclamation Specialist (Inspector) for northeastern Washington. The position is critical to help ensure surface mines in Washington state will be reclaimed to a well vegetated, stable, and naturally draining condition, to provide the greatest practical degree of environmental protection, and to prepare the sites for their future use. The inspector is the subject matter experts for surface mine reclamation permits in the coverage area, providing technical assistance and support to permit holders in partnership to achieve compliance with permit conditions and all applicable laws and rules.  

We are seeking a geologist suitable for a role that requires self-direction, strong time-management skills, and excellent verbal and written communication skills. This is mainly a field-based position, with occasional telework and office work required. Most permit site inspections will be relatively easily accessible (although may require long driving times) and performed in conjunction with a permit holder and/or consultant, although the candidate must be willing to occasionally work long days, alone, and in remote areas. The Program has recently restructured in order to accommodate its Inspectors to live within the geographic areas for which they are responsible, in order to minimize the need for overnight travel. However, some overnight travel will be required.

 

Duties

Responsibilities:
Surface Mine Reclamation Specialists (Inspectors) are responsible for inspecting surface mines for compliance with the Surface Mining Act (RCW 78.44) and its associated rule (WAC 332-18), as well as the approved reclamation permit and plan, and evaluates and adjusts performance securities to ensure Department liability is mitigated. Inspectors respond to requests for technical assistance with permit holders, miners, their consultants, and the general public to address various issues at mine sites and oversee initial compliance actions. They also collaborate with the Chief Reclamation Geologist and Assistant Director in preparing and delivering enforcement actions. This work is critical to program function and to achieving compliance, protecting the environment, and establishing final reclamation site conditions appropriate for a site’s approved subsequent use.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications: 

  • Bachelor’s degree in geology, engineering geology, hydrogeology, or related field; 
    OR Four years of mining- and reclamation-related field experience, including the identification of slope stability and erosion hazards and hazardous mineral potential;
    OR a combination of education and/or experience listed in the areas above. 
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office software for the production of reports, letters, and other documents.
  • Proficiency with GPS, clinometer, Apple iOS, rangefinder, and other equipment needed for field inspections.
  • Experience using ArcGIS.
  • Demonstrated commitment to fostering and supporting an environment that honors diversity, equity and inclusion and environmental justice practices.
  • Perform assigned duties in a manner consistent with applicable laws, regulations and public records retention and requests are followed.
  • DNR Core Competencies:
    • Personal Accountability
    • Value Others
    • Compassionate Communication
    • Inspire Others
    • Commitment to Excellence
Special Requirements and Conditions of Employment:
  • Work Setting:  Field 75%, Office 25% – ability to work in uneven terrain, in all weather conditions. Mine inspections are conducted outside year-round. SMR Specialists are expected to walk mine site to inspect for compliance with RCW, permit, and perform preliminary evaluation of slope stability issues.
  • Occasional overnight travel is expected as part of the position.
  • A valid unrestricted driver’s license and have two years of driving experience. This position requires driving as an essential function. Finalists and/or interview candidates will be asked to provide a driving record from all states in which they have held a license during the past three years. 
Desired Qualifications:
  • License to practice geology, engineering geology, and/or hydrogeology in Washington state (LG, LEG, LHG).
  • Proficiency using ArcGIS.
  • Public outreach and regulatory/compliance experience.
Don’t let doubts stop you from applying for this position – If you have any questions about the required qualifications or how your past experience relates to them, please contact us at DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov. A note to potential candidates: Studies have shown that women, trans, non-binary, and Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) are less likely to apply for jobs unless they feel they meet every qualification as described in a job description. We value diversity and inclusion in our organization, and we are looking for the best person for the job. Don’t hesitate to apply! 

 

Supplemental Information

Application Requirements:

  • Apply online: at www.careers.wa.gov (Click on the APPLY button above).
  • Letter of interest: describing your specific qualifications to the position and position required, desired, and special requirements.
  • Resume: that details your experience and qualifications.
  • References: at least three professional references with current telephone numbers– you may attach a document, use the References text field in the online application, or include it with your resume.
  • Important: Do not attach any documents that include photos or private information (social security number, year of birth, etc.).
  • Complete all supplemental questions.
  • Candidates who move forward in the recruitment process may be contacted via email at info@governmentjobs.com with interview information/scheduling instructions. Please monitor the email listed in your application materials and check your junk email folder to ensure you receive those communications.
Questions?  Please contact Rian Skov at Rian.Skov@dnr.wa.gov / (360) 704-0963 or e-mail us at DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov.

About the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). 
At DNR we approach our work through the lens of making Washington a better place environmentally and are dedicated to serving Washington’s lands and communities through diversity, equity, and inclusion. 
Our Vision – Our actions ensure a future where Washington’s lands, waters, and communities thrive.
Our Mission – Manage, sustain, and protect the health and productivity of Washington’s lands and waters to meet the needs of present and future generations.
Our Core Values:
  • Safety and Well-Being —Our top priority is the safety of the public and our employees.
  • Public Service —We value and respect the public we serve, and we value and respect the people of the Department of Natural Resources who step up to serve.
  • Innovation and Creative Problem-Solving — We solve our state’s most pressing challenges through innovative thinking, dedication, and bold and creative vision.
  • Leadership and Teamwork —We are committed to building leaders at all levels and building teams for success.
DNR provides excellent benefits, a few of which include:
  • Commitment to organizational health and wellness
  • Work/life balance
  • DNR Employee Resource Groups (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Council, Women’s Employee Resource Group, Veterans Employee Resource Group, etc.)
  • Statewide Employee Business Resource Groups, visit here to learn more
  • Leadership that empowers and supports employees
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Educational and career development aid
  • Public Service Loan Forgiveness Eligibility
  • Opportunities to participate in wildland fire suppression assignments
  • A comprehensive benefits package that includes employer contributions toward health insurance, paid holidays, retirement plans, sick leave, and vacation days. Visit http://careers.wa.gov/benefits.html for more information.
Additional Information:
This recruitment may be extended and may also be used to fill future similar vacancies for up to sixty (60) days.
 
DNR does not use the E-Verify system. For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov.

Veterans wishing to claim Veteran’s preference please attach a copy of your DD-214, NGB-22, or other verification of military service. Please black out your social security number prior to attaching it. We thank you and are grateful for your service!

Equal Opportunity Employer: The Washington State Department of Natural Resources 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. Persons needing accommodation in the application/testing process or this job announcement in an alternative format may call (360) 522-2500 or email DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384.

Once you submit your online application, you can check your status by logging into your account. If you experience technical difficulties creating, accessing or completing your application call NEOGOV toll-free at (855) 524-5627 or email CareersHelp@des.wa.gov.

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