Mine Reclamation Specialist, Environmental Specialist 3 (ES3)
Recruitment #2025-8-7192/7949
Full-time, Permanent, Represented positions (WFSE)
Location: Spokane and Wenatchee, WA
Partial Telework flexibility may be available and considered
Salary: $4,882.00 – $6,576.00 Monthly
Review of applications is ongoing. We reserve the right to make a hiring decision or close this recruitment at any time after 9/2/25. It is in your best interest to submit materials as soon as possible.
Want to join something GREAT and make a difference?
The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has an exciting opportunity within our Washington Geological Survey Division as a Surface Mine Reclamation Specialist, Environmental Specialist 3 (ES3).
Are you a geologist or natural science professional looking for an opportunity that will help contribute to protecting the environment and also 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 two Surface Mine Reclamation Specialists (Inspectors) for central and northeastern Washington. These positions are 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. Each inspector is the subject matter expert 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 candidates with solid geological skills suitable for a role that requires self-direction, practical time-management skills, and excellent verbal and written communication skills. This is mainly a field-based position, with intermittent telework and office work required. Most of the permit site inspections will be relatively easy to access (although some may require long driving times or occasional overnight travel) and performed in conjunction with a permit holder and/or consultant, although the candidate must be willing to periodically work long days, alone, and in remote areas. The Program is set up to accommodate its Inspectors to live within the geographic areas for which they are responsible, to minimize the need for overnight travel. However, as noted above, 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 evaluate and adjust 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 compliance actions. They also collaborate with the Program’s Regulatory Geologists, Assistant Director, and administrative support staff 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 local jurisdiction’s subsequent use.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in geology, engineering geology, hydrogeology, or related field;
OR an equivalent combination of education and/or experience. Experience to include mining- and reclamation-related field experience, including the identification of slope stability and erosion hazards and hazardous mineral potential. - Proficient with Microsoft Office software to produce reports, letters, and other documents.
- Proficiency with GPS, clinometer, Apple iOS, rangefinder, and other equipment needed for field inspections.
- Experience using ArcGIS.
- Knowledgeable in geologic principles and processes, especially in relation to mining activities.
- Commitment to fostering and supporting an environment that honors diversity, equity, 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:
- This position requires: Field 75%, Office 25% with the ability to work in uneven terrain, in all weather conditions. Mine inspections are conducted year-round at active surface mines. SMRP Surface Mine Reclamation Specialists are expected to walk the mine site to inspect for compliance with RCW, permit, and perform a preliminary evaluation of slope stability issues.
- This position requires occasional (up to 4 times/month) overnight travel within the area of coverage or to trainings/meetings in other regions within the state.
- A valid, unrestricted driver’s license and 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 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, 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!