Assistant Environmental Permitting Supervisor - Environmental Planner 4 - Permanent - *04597-25

State of Washington$75K — $101K *
Education, Government & Non-Profit
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Hold a degree in environmental planning, natural resource science, fisheries, or related field (Master’s, Bachelor’s, or Associate’s) with progressive professional experience.
  • Have 3 years (Master’s), 5 years (Bachelor’s), or 7 years (Associate’s) of relevant professional experience plus at least 1 year of supervisory experience.
  • Demonstrate experience in land use planning, environmental permitting, or natural resource management.
  • Possess a valid driver’s license for field-based site reviews and travel.
  • Show familiarity with developing policies and navigating regulatory frameworks related to environmental compliance.

Responsibilities

  • Assist senior management with identifying and shaping policies, regulations, and key initiatives.
  • Determine permitting requirements for capital projects by scheduling, budgeting, and preparing complete permit packages.
  • Maintain environmental law and regulation compliance by implementing permitting requirements and best management practices.
  • Lead multidisciplinary teams through strategic planning, policy development, and internal training initiatives.
  • Act as the primary liaison with federal, state, local, and tribal partners to support collaboration across projects.
  • Conduct strategic analysis of new and evolving regulatory policies and initiatives affecting permitting processes.

Benefits

  • Access to comprehensive health benefits including medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance.
  • Enrollment options in a medical flexible spending account with tax-deferred dollars.
  • Participation in retirement programs via the Washington Public Employees’ Retirement System and Deferred Compensation Program.
  • Paid holidays, sick leave, annual vacation leave, and additional personal leave options per collective bargaining agreements.
  • Dependent care assistance and options for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance through payroll deduction.
  • Employee assistance programs and wellness initiatives, as well as military and bereavement leave benefits.
Full Job Description
Salary: $6,259.00 - $8,415.00 Monthly
Location : Thurston County - Olympia, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number: 2025-04597
Department: Dept. of Fish and Wildlife
Opening Date: 07/02/2025
Closing Date: 7/16/2025 11:59 PM Pacific

Description
Title- Assistant Environmental Permitting Supervisor (AEPS)

Classification- Environmental Planner 4

Job Status- Full-Time/PermanentWDFW Program- Capital and Asset ManagementProgram (CAMP) - Environmental Permitting SectionDuty Station- Olympia, Washington - Thurston County

Hybrid/Telework- This position is currently approved to work from home up to four (4) days per week, at the discretion of the supervisor.
Learn more about being a member of Team WDFW!
Photo Caption: Restoration Project - Photo Credit: WDFW
We are seeking an experienced and strategic leader to serve as the Assistant Environmental Permitting Supervisor (AEPS). In this key role, you will lead high-profile initiatives related to land use planning and capital projects across the state, acting as the primary liaison to federal, state, local, and tribal partners. As a senior planner, you'll coordinate strategic planning and policy implementation, provide internal leadership across multidisciplinary teams, and supervise a team of environmental planners and interns. Your work will directly support environmental permitting efforts that protect fish and wildlife habitats, align with agency goals, and foster collaboration across a wide network of stakeholders.
What to Expect-

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Assistant Environmental Permitting Supervisor will be responsible for:
Statewide Project Permit Review and Requirements
  • Assist Senior and Executive Management in identifying new policies and regulations, new direction of existing policies and regulations, and significant initiatives that could most affect Liaison to state, local, federal, and other external entities, as well as work areas that would be improved by new policy, new direction, or initiative development.
  • Determine permitting requirements for CAMP-assigned projects. Determine scheduling and budget of project goals and needs. Prepare and submit permit application packages, including supporting permit documents.
  • Maintain environmental law, regulation, and permit compliance through oversight, facilitation, and compliance with environmental elements of project implementation, including permitting requirements, special evaluations, and Best Management Practices (BMP) usage.
  • Work within the Mid-Management Team (MMT) or other identified entity to develop and maintain a consistent state-wide approach to new policies, new direction on existing policies, and significant initiatives.
  • Serve as Liaison and Regulation Policy Lead for projects/issues/processes that are impacted by new or redirected regulation policies or significant initiatives.
  • As lead, conduct strategic analyses concerning agency or externally developed regulation policies, redirected policies, or significant initiatives.

Supervision
  • Provides guidance, direction and information to staff regarding Program/Agency policies, procedures, and directions in a clear and timely manner.
  • Works with staff to develop strategic approach to accomplishing goals, addressing issues and successfully implementing assignments.
  • In collaboration with staff, develops and provides training for professional staff.
  • Provides mentoring to staff to promote and support professional development.

  • Works with individual staff to provide guidance and direction regarding workload control and prioritization.

Program Strategic Planning
  • Position actively engages to assist Senior and Executive Management in Program or Agency level short-term and long-term strategic planning.
  • Position works with Environmental Permitting Manager and other Program staff to develop and bring permitting perspective to Program/Agency strategic planning.
  • The AEPS, with Environmental Permitting Manager, is responsible for communicating and encouraging support for the strategic direction identified by the Program and/or Agency.

Working Conditions:

Work setting, including hazards: Duties are performed in an office setting, construction sites, in-water work (Hatcheries and Wildlife Areas) which includes the following hazards: walking on uneven terrain including slippery footing, mud, and other challenging field conditions; steep slopes for extended periods; inclement weather conditions; must be able to climb ladders, work from boats, and elevated locations. Physical, environmental, or mental demands of key work: Must be able to drive a vehicle to conduct field review of project sites. Physical capacity to work in remote forested and aquatic environments, conducting fish surveys and other related tasks. These activities can occasionally consist of days in excess of 8 hours, for several days in a row. This position may involve working in or near water, including tasks that require navigating, negotiating, and performing duties related to water environments.

Schedule (i.e., hours and days): Monday through Friday, 8 AM - 5 PM Workload may require additional hours, and the incumbent may be expected to adjust the work schedule to meet business needs. A flexible work schedule and remote work will be considered at the incumbent's request, subject to supervisory approval.

Travel: Travel will be required throughout the state to attend training, meetings, and conferences. Travel for fieldwork will also be required. Periods of overnight travel may be required, and work hours may exceed the standard 8 am to 5 pm workday. Travel may comprise up to 20%

Tools: Electroshocking equipment, boots, GPS, clinometer, digital camera, state-assigned work vehicle.

Customer interactions: Agency staff, other government agencies, tribal, private stakeholders, and the public.
Qualifications:
Required Qualifications:

Closely related qualifying experience may be substituted for the required education on a year-by-year basis.
Option 1: A master's degree or above with major emphasis in land use, urban, regional, environmental, or natural resource planning, landscape architecture, geography, land use or environmental law, public administration with an environmental emphasis, or closely related field and three years of professional experience in land use, urban, regional, environmental, or natural resource planning, and/or program development plus one (1) year of supervisor experience.
Option 2: A bachelor's degree in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, or environmental science and five (5) years of professional experience in fish management or fish research, wildlife management or wildlife

research, habitat management or habitat research, natural resource planning, or equivalent field plus one (1) year of supervisor experience.
Option 3: An associate's degree with an emphasis/specialty in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, or

environmental science and seven (7) years of professional experience in fish management or fish research, wildlife management or wildlife research, habitat management or habitat research, natural resource planning, or equivalent field plus one (1) year of supervisor experience.
Licenses: Valid driver's license
Preferred Qualifications:

In addition to the required qualifications, our ideal applicant will possess experience in some or all the following:
  • Successfully developing and delivering educational content to diverse audiences, demonstrating effective teaching and communication skills.
  • Building and maintaining productive partnerships with tribal governments, the public, and local, state, and federal agencies to support collaborative environmental initiatives.
  • Applying knowledge of Pacific Northwest ecological processes to inform habitat assessments, conservation planning, and regulatory reviews.
  • Interpreting and applying environmental regulations, including the Hydraulic Code, Growth Management Act (GMA), State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA), and Shoreline Management Act (SMA), in support of permitting and land use decisions.
  • Managing competing priorities and meeting project deadlines through strong organizational and time management skills.
  • Reviewing and monitoring environmental permits to ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, supporting environmentally responsible development and resource protection.
  • Proven success in delivering clear, concise, and effective verbal and written communications to diverse internal and external audiences.
  • Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build trust, foster collaboration, and maintain positive working relationships across teams and stakeholder groups.
  • Skilled at translating complex or sensitive topics into accessible language while maintaining a respectful and non-confrontational tone.

Your application should include the following:
  • A completed online application showcasing how your qualifications align with the job requirements.
  • An up-to-date resume.
  • A cover letter detailing your interest in the position, your relevant skills and experience, and why you are the ideal candidate.
  • At least three professional references with current contact information.

Supplemental information:

In addition to and other , there are other that WDFW employees may be eligible for. Click the "Benefits" tab at the top of this announcement to learn more.
Important Note:

All new employees must complete an Employment Eligibility Verification Form (I-9 Form) on their first day of work. If hired for this or any position at WDFW, you will be required to provide documentation proving you are eligible to work in the United States. For a list of acceptable documents, please use the following link: https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents
Union - WAFWP:

This position is in the bargaining unit represented by the Washington Association of Fish & Wildlife Professionals and is subject to the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the State of Washington, Department of Fish & Wildlife, and the Washington Association of Fish & Wildlife Professionals.
Veteran and Military Spouse Preference Notice:

Per RCW 73.16.010 Veterans and qualifying spouses who meet the minimum qualifications of a position are eligible for preference during the initial application review stage. To receive this benefit, please do the following:
  • Notify us of your veteran or military spouse status by email at [email protected]
  • Veterans only - Attach a copy of your DD214 (Member 4 copy), NGB 22 or USDVA signed verification of service letter.
    • Please redact any PII (personally identifiable information) data such as social security numbers.
  • Subject line must include recruitment number, position, and spouse/veteran (example: 2024-1234 - Biologist 1 - Veteran)
  • Include your name as it appears on your application in careers.wa.gov.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Employer
As part of WDFW's efforts to advance respectful and inclusive work environments, the Agency expects inclusivity as part of our professional interactions and communications. Therefore, we want to ensure that all individuals feel welcome, are treated fairly and respectfully. All staff are empowered to fully contribute to serving their work unit, Agency, and the citizens of Washington.
The Department of Fish and Wildlife 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, disabled and Vietnam era veterans and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply.
Request an accommodation: Persons needing accommodation in the application process or this announcement in an alternative format please contact Jayme Chase by phone 360-902-2278 or email [email protected], or the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) at 800-833-6388.
Technical Difficulties: If you are having technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application, please call NEOGOV toll-free at (855) 524-5627 or .
Other questions: If you have other questions regarding this position, please reach out to
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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, 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

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

Do you have a valid driver's license?
  • Yes, I have a current valid driver's license.
  • No, I do not have a current valid driver's license.

02

Please select the option below that best describes the highest level of education you have completed.
  • High School Diploma/GED.
  • Some College.
  • Vocational Degree or Certificate.
  • Associate's Degree.
  • Bachelor's Degree.
  • Master's Degree.
  • Ph.D.
  • None of the above.

03

What is your major area of study? If you possess multiple degrees, please list each degree and major. (If this does not apply to you, please put N/A.) This includes both vocational and college education.
04

Briefly describe your general experience with permitting water-related construction and/or maintenance projects. ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).
05

Select the option below that best describes your experience in environmental permitting.
  • I do not have this experience
  • I have less than 2 years of this experience
  • I have 2-3 years of this experience
  • I have 3-5 years of this experience
  • I have 5-7 years of this experience
  • 7-9 years of this experience
  • I have over 9 years of this experience

06

Please BRIEFLY describe where you gained your experience in environmental permitting. ("See Resume" is not a valid response. If you do not have this experience, put N/A.)
07

Please describe your knowledge of aquatic restoration implementation and mitigation. (Streams, wetlands, dam removal, bulkhead repair and replacement, fish passage, culvert replacement, eelgrass and forage fish screenings and restoration, bull kelp restoration.
08

Do you have at least one (1) year of supervisory experience?
  • Yes
  • No

09

Please list and describe your managerial or supervisory experience. ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).
10

Please describe your experience working with multiple stakeholders to achieve a common goal. ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).
11

How did you hear about this job posting? (Select all that apply).
  • American Fisheries Society (AFS)
  • Careers.wa.gov
  • Community Based Organization
  • Community/Technical College
  • Conservation Job Board
  • El Informador
  • Facebook
  • Four W's Fishing Team, LLC - Willard Franklin III, LinkedIn
  • Handshake
  • Hiring Event/Workshop
  • Indeed.com
  • Job Board
  • Job Fair
  • LinkedIn
  • MHCC - Mount Hood Community College
  • Newspaper
  • Other
  • Other State Agency
  • Other Website
  • Professional Association
  • Society of American Foresters (SAF)
  • Texas A&M
  • Twitter
  • University Job Board
  • UW College of the Environment
  • WDFW Employee
  • WDFW Recruiter
  • WDFW Website
  • Word of Mouth
  • WorkSource

12

Tell us more - kindly share which website, organization, person, or other source led you to this job posting.
13

Are you currently an employee of the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife? This includes permanent, non-permanent, intern, project, and career seasonal.
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

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