Senior Coastal Geomatics Scientist (Natural Resource Scientist 4)

Salary : $80,460.00 - $108,252.00 Annually
Location : Thurston County - Lacey, WA
Job Type: Agency Internal - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 2025-SEA5331-02505
Department: Dept. of Ecology
Division: Shorelands and Environmental Assistance
Opening Date: 04/17/2025
Closing Date: Continuous
Salary Information: The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step

Description

Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen

This recruitment is open only to current Department of Ecology employees, including those on temporary or project assignments, and Ecology's Washington Conservation Corps members.
The Department of Ecology is hiring a Senior Coastal Geomatics Scientist (Natural Resource Scientist 4)within the Shorelands & Environmental Assistance (SEA) program.

Location Options:

This position can be based at any of the following duty stations:

• Headquarters Office in

Upon hire, you must live within a commutable distance from the selected duty station.

Schedule:

• This position is eligible for telework and flexible schedule options.
• In-office presence in Lacey is expected to the extent necessary to conduct the assigned job duties (several times per week).
• Schedules are dependent upon position needs and are subject to change.

Application Timeline:

• April 27, 2025
• This position will remain open until filled. The agency reserves the right to make a hire at any time after application review begins. Applications received after April 27, 2025 may not be considered.

Duties
You will join Washington's Applied Coastal Research and Engineering (ACRE) team, which delivers high-quality data, science-based information, technical expertise, and innovative solutions to support Washington's coastal communities and Tribes. Through monitoring, research, and collaboration, ACRE bridges the gap between data, decision-makers, and the public to advance informed coastal management decisions that promote resilient shorelines and nearshore habitat functions.

In this role, you will be the agency's designated expert in geomatics and remote sensing equipment and methods. You will lead scientific research campaigns in support of ACRE's mission and be responsible for operating, maintaining, and innovating ACRE's suite of specialized topographic and hydrographic surveying equipment.

What you will do:

Advance coastal monitoring and data collection methods

• Drive innovation in survey technologies by researching, developing, and integrating new methods into Unit's data collection framework.
• Manage grants and contracts including research project funding.
• Lead strategic planning for technology adoption and ensure alignment with ACRE's scientific objectives.
• Engage with vendors and research institutions to assess emerging technologies, obtain product information, and negotiate purchasing agreements.

Research survey planning and execution

• Lead planning and logistical coordination for field surveys, considering environmental conditions, research objectives, and operational constraints.
• Establish and maintain partnerships with external institutions (e.g., USGS, Oregon State University, University of Washington) for collaborative research and data sharing.

Field data collection and processing

• Oversee high-precision coastal monitoring surveys, including topographic, hydrographic, UAV-based, and vessel-based data collection.
• Operate and maintain advanced surveying instruments, ensuring quality control in data acquisition and processing.
• Coordinate data processing workflows for topographic GNSS data, multibeam bathymetry, lidar point clouds, and sediment sample analysis. Support data processing and cataloguing efforts, which may include processing sediment samples, photogrammetric data, topographic GNSS data, multibeam bathymetric data, and/or LIDAR point cloud data.

Coastal operations safety & emergency preparedness

• Serve as ACRE's designated Safety Officer, developing, defining, and enforcing comprehensive safety protocols for all survey operations, considering the unique hazards of remote fieldwork, marine operations, and extreme weather conditions.
• Develop and maintain ACRE's emergency response protocols, including:
• First Aid & Remote Medical Response: Ensure staff have adequate first aid training with designated responders equipped to handle medical incidents in isolated field locations.
• Tsunami & Extreme Weather Preparedness: Develop and implement tsunami evacuation plans, extreme weather contingency protocols, and emergency communication strategies for field teams working in coastal areas.
• Emergency Equipment & Communications: Maintain and oversee field medical kits, emergency beacons, and satellite communication devices for use in areas with limited connectivity.

Management of ACRE's suite of specialized topographic and hydrographic survey equipment

• Oversee the operation, maintenance, and calibration of ACRE's specialized survey systems, including GNSS receivers, unmanned aerial vehicles, lidar, radio frequency identification systems, multibeam echosounders, and related hardware. Maintain equipment maintenance records. Maintain equipment maintenance records.
• Direct and document routine maintenance of survey vehicles and vessels (truck(s), ATV(s), AUV(s), 28-ft landing craft, ATV and boat trailers), ensuring operability prior to field surveys.
• Diagnose and resolve complex technical issues related to sensors, serial and network communications, data loggers, and software related to data acquisition.

Facility and laboratory oversight

• Oversee organization and functionality of ACRE's storage and workspace facilities. Serve as ACRE representative in agency discussions on lab space planning and development.
• Develop, define, and implement safety protocols for laboratory and storage management in compliance with agency standards.

Qualifications
Ten years of combined education and professional research or consulting experience in coastal geomatics, remote sensing, coastal processes and geomorphology, coastal monitoring, surveying, engineering technology, or other work related to the essential functions and key activities of the position. Experience must include three or more of the following:

• Coordinating and/or leading high-precision coastal monitoring surveys, including topographic, hydrographic, UAV-based, and vessel-based data collection.
• Experience with a range of remote sensing data collection techniques and data processing (lidar, photogrammetry, sonar, aerial and satellite imagery, etc.).
• Experience working with and troubleshooting geomatics survey equipment (GNSS Trimble survey equipment, mobile laser scanner, and/or sonar technology).
• Experience diagnosing and resolving complex technical issues related to sensors, serial and network communications, data loggers, and software related to data acquisition.
• Curating and publishing environmental datasets and scientific papers in geomatics-related topics.

Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment:

• Must possess a valid driver's license.
• Washington State Boater's Safety Education Card.
• Oregon ATV Safety Education Card.
• Ability and willingness to spend extended time in travel status (2-10 days) during fieldwork campaigns.

Desired Qualifications:

• Master's degree or PhD coursework and work experience in broad range of geomatics topics with applications in oceanography, geology, hydrography, or environmental science.
• Experience writing scientific reports and publications, presenting at scientific conferences, and presenting technical topics to the public.
• Familiarity with coastal monitoring or other type of environmental data collection.
• Experience operating small powerboats in shallow coastal conditions.
• Washington State Boating License (or equivalent or higher Boating License valid in another state)
• Licensed or interest in obtaining a license to operate commercial unmanned aerial systems under the Federal Aviation Administration's Small UAS Rule (Part 107).

If you are excited about this role but not sure if your experience aligns perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply. Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At the Department of Ecology, we are dedicated to building a diverse and authentic workplace centered in belonging. You may just be the needed candidate for this or other roles.
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 .

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 DEIRis 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
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
• 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 Michelle Gostic at:
• 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 Shorelands & Environmental Assistance Program is to create community conservation partnerships to protect and restore our shorelands, wetlands, and floodplains.
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.
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 Incentives (Download PDF reader), Combined Fund Drive, SmartHealth *Click here for more information
To learn more about Ecology, please visit our website, explore , 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.
#LI-Hybrid
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

How did you hear about this job?

• Community Based Organization
• Community / Technical College
• Ecology Employee
• Ecology Recruiter
• Ecology Jobs Page
• Facebook
• Job Board
• Job Fair
• LinkedIn
• Newspaper
• Other State Agency
• Other Website
• Professional Association
• Twitter
• University Job Board
• WorkSource
• Other

02

If you selected Community Based Organization, Community / Technical College, Job Board, Job Fair, LinkedIn Group, Newspaper, Other State Agency, Other Website, Professional Association, University Job Board, WorkSource, or Other, please share which one.
03

Have you ever worked for the Department of Ecology in any capacity including: Permanent, Non-permanent, Project, Intern, or Volunteer?

• Yes
• No

04

How many years of experience do you have in coastal geomatics, remote sensing, coastal processes and geomorphology, coastal monitoring, surveying, engineering technology or related experience.Please include any experience gained through employment, internships, and/or volunteer positions. Note that experience gained from academic coursework, class projects, or other degree requirements is assessed in later questions.

• One year
• Two years
• Three years
• Four years
• Five years
• Six years
• Seven years
• Eight years
• Nine years
• Ten years or more
• None of the above

05

Please provide additional details to support your response above. The following information is needed: position title(s), specific duties, and periods of employment. Make sure your response specifically addresses the qualification above. An incomplete answer, including "please see resume" may remove you from further consideration.
06

What is your level of education with a major study in coastal geomatics, remote sensing, coastal processes and geomorphology, coastal monitoring, surveying, engineering technology or related field?

• 30-59 semester or 45-89 quarter college credits
• 60-89 semester or 90-134 quarter college credits (AA degree)
• 90-119 semester or 135-179 quarter college credits
• Bachelor's degree
• Master's degree
• Ph.D.
• None of the above

07

If you have college credits or a degree, please list your major(s) or field(s) of study and any degree(s) earned. If you don't have this education, put N/A.
08

Please select all that apply to your education and/or experience:

• Coordinating and/or leading high-precision coastal monitoring surveys, including topographic, hydrographic, UAV-based, and vessel-based data collection.
• Experience with a range of remote sensing data collection techniques and data processing (lidar, photogrammetry, sonar, aerial and satellite imagery, etc.).
• Experience working with and troubleshooting geomatics survey equipment (GNSS Trimble survey equipment, mobile laser scanner, and/or sonar technology).
• Experience diagnosing and resolving complex technical issues related to sensors, serial and network communications, data loggers, and software related to data acquisition.
• Curating and publishing environmental datasets and scientific papers in geomatics-related topics.

09

The State of Washington and the Department of Ecology, play a vital role in fostering a Diverse, Equitable, Inclusive, and Respectful (DEIR) workplace and contributing to equitable outcomes for the communities we serve. We view DEIR 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. We believe it is everyone's job to contribute to a DEIR workplace.
What experiences have you had working with people whose backgrounds are very different from your own? What impact did those experiences have on how you worked?

10

Are you able to obtain and maintain a valid driver's license?

• Yes
• No

11

Are you able to obtain and maintain a Washington State Boater's Safety Education Card and an Oregon ATV Safety Education Card?

• Yes
• No

12

I understand that Ecology does not use the E-Verify system and is unable to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT).

• Yes
• No

Required Question