Salary : $90,096.00 - $121,176.00 Annually
Location : Thurston County - Lacey, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 2026-SPPR3651-05689
Department: Dept. of Ecology
Division: Spill Prevention, Preparedness and Response
Opening Date: 07/10/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Salary Information: The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step
DescriptionKeeping Washington Clean and EvergreenThe Department of Ecology is hiring a
Data Systems Developer (IT Data Management - Journey)within the .
Location: - Headquarters Office in
- Upon hire, you must live within a commutable distance from the duty station.
Schedule: - This position is eligible for telework and flexible schedule options.
- You may telework most of your work time with occasional in-person meetings and activities.
- Schedules are dependent upon position needs and are subject to change.
Application Timeline: - Apply by July 26, 2026
- Applications submitted after the date above may not be reviewed unless additional qualified applicants are needed.
DutiesIn this role, you will assist in the development, maintenance, and evolution of the program's mission-critical information systems. This role is ideal for a seasoned professional who enjoys solving complex technical problems, building sophisticated databases and application ecosystems, and shaping modern technology solutions that directly support environmental protection.
You will serve as part of a team to provide data management and application development services for the program. You will independently design and manage advanced databases, build and maintain custom applications used by spill responders and regulatory staff, and deliver technical solutions that enable fast, accurate decision-making in high-stakes oil spill prevention and response scenarios. You will also influence program strategies, participate in architecture discussions, and ensure that technical systems are reliable, scalable, secure, and aligned with business needs.
What you will do: - Design, development, testing, and implementation of highly complex custom applications using modern development tools and agency standards.
- Design, develop, optimize, and maintain Spills Program databases, including schema design, stored procedures, integrations, and performance enhancements.
- Provide technical guidance and consult with program staff to improve business workflows, ensure high-quality data, and contribute to long-term data and application strategies.
- Develop user interfaces and mobile application components that support daily work of spill responders, inspectors, plan reviewers, and public users.
- Build and maintain reporting environments and advanced data retrieval systems, including SSRS reports, spatial data integrations, and sustainable ETL processes.
- Analyze and resolve complex technical issues across applications, ensuring smooth system interoperability and uninterrupted service for all end users.
- Support oil spill risk modeling and analysis teams by designing and maintaining specialized data systems, preparing datasets, and developing custom scripts and queries.
- Collaborate with agency IT teams (ITSO, ITSS, Application Developers, Enterprise Architects) to ensure system security, SQL ecosystem alignment, architectural consistency, and successful project delivery.
QualificationsFor detailed information on how we calculate experience and responses to other frequently asked questions, please visit our
Required Qualifications:5 years of experience and/or education related to the duties of the position, which includes the following:- Critical Thinking and Problem Solving - Ability to assess complex data and system issues to develop solutions that keep information systems reliable and aligned with business needs.
- Collaboration and Communication - Ability to work effectively with staff, IT teams, and partners to translate needs, share information, and ensure systems function well for all users.
- Decision Making and Judgment - Ability to independently make sound technical and workflow decisions to ensure data systems and applications meet program, agency, and industry standards.
- Business Process and Workflow Improvement - Ability to evaluate how data and applications support work processes and recommend clear, practical improvements to increase efficiency and data quality.
- Database Design and Development , SQL and Data Processing - Ability to design, build, and maintain databases to ensure program data is well-structured, secure, scalable, and accessible. Ability to write and optimize SQL queries, stored procedures, and ETL routines to support reporting, system integration, and analytical work.
- Application Design and Development - Ability to build and maintain applications using standard development tools (e.g., C#, ASP.NET, JavaScript, SQL Server) to support program operations and external user needs.
Education involving a major study in Computer Science, Information Technology (IT), Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM), or closely related field.
Examples of how to qualify:
- 5 years of experience.
- 4 years of experience AND 30-59 semester or 45-89 quarter college credits.
- 3 years of experience AND 60-89 semester or 90-134 quarter college credits (Associate's degree).
- 2 years of experience AND 90-119 semester or 135-179 quarter college credits.
- 1 years of experience AND a Bachelor's degree or higher.
Desired Qualifications:- System Integration and Troubleshooting - Ability to connect data and applications across systems and resolve technical issues to prevent disruptions and maintain reliable service.
- Reporting and Data Visualization - Ability to create and manage reporting tools and environments (such as SSRS) to support decision-making, analysis, and QA/QC activities.
- GIS and Spatial Data Integration - Ability to incorporate spatial datasets into databases and applications to support environmental analysis and program operations.
- Project and Solution Planning - Ability to plan, scope, and lead development efforts-from requirements through implementation-to deliver dependable databases and applications.
- Data Governance and Quality Management - Ability to define data requirements, standards, and practices to ensure program information is accurate, consistent, and usable.
If you are excited about this role and meet the required qualifications, we encourage you to apply. Desired qualifications reflect additional knowledge, skills, or experience that are nice to have but not required. Studies have shown that some applicants, especially women and people of color, are less likely to apply unless they meet every listed qualification. At the Department of Ecology, we are dedicated to building a diverse and authentic workplace centered in belonging, and we welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and unique perspectives.
Supplemental InformationEcology 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 DEIRDiversity, 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 DEIR is 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 ProcessEcology 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 ApplyClick "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 or
- If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 711 or 1-.
Questions?- For specific questions about the position location options, schedule, or duties, please contact Adam Byrd 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
Program Mission: The Spills Program's mission is to protect, preserve, and restore Washington's environment. Our vision is to create a zero spills world.
About the Department of EcologyAs 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: , , *, *, , , & , , , , , , , *
Click here for more informationTo learn more about Ecology, please visit our , explore , check out our , and connect with us on , , , , or our
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 BenefitsEmployees 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 CompensationState 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 SecurityAll 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 ForgivenessIf 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 LeaveWashington 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, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.
Additional LeaveLeave Sharing
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 01-07-2026
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?
04
How many years of experience do you have related to the duties of this position? 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 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 involving a major study in Computer Science, Information Technology (IT), Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM), or closely related field?
- 30-59 semester or 45-89 quarter college credits
- 60-89 semester or 90-134 quarter college credits (Associate's 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
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?
09
How would you rate your ability to analyze complex data or system issues and develop effective solutions that maintain reliability and alignment with business needs?
- None - No experience evaluating technical problems or interpreting data to inform solutions, concepts or troubleshooting workflows.
- Foundational - Basic awareness of problem-solving methods; able to recognize straightforward issues with
- Intermediate - Able to analyze routine data or system problems and propose solutions with some supervision.
- Advanced - Independently evaluates complex issues, identifies root causes, and develops reliable solutions that meet business needs.
- Expert - Serves as a trusted advisor who leads problem-solving efforts, mentors others, and sets the approach for addressing complex system challenges.
10
How would you rate your ability to collaborate with staff, IT teams, and partners to translate needs, share information, and ensure systems function well for all users?
- None - No experience collaborating on technical or system-related work.
- Foundational - Basic awareness of teamwork expectations; able to communicate simple information with guidance.
- Intermediate - Collaborates effectively on routine tasks, understands interested parties' needs, and communicates technical concepts with some support.
- Advanced - Independently engages with diverse interested parties, clearly translates technical needs, and supports smooth system operations through consistent communication.
- Expert - Leads collaboration across teams, shapes communication practices, and mentors others in effective interested party engagement.
11
How would you rate your ability to independently make sound technical and workflow decisions that ensure data systems and applications meet program, agency, and industry standards?
- None - No experience making technical or workflow decisions.
- Foundational - Basic awareness of decision-making considerations; able to follow direction on simple choices.
- Intermediate - Makes routine technical decisions with some oversight and applies standards when guidance is provided.
- Advanced - Independently makes well-informed decisions that ensure systems meet required standards and operate reliably.
- Expert - Provides authoritative judgment, guides critical decisions across teams, and sets decision-making frameworks for systems and workflows.
12
How would you rate your ability to evaluate business processes and identify practical improvements to increase efficiency and data quality?
- None - No experience reviewing business processes or proposing workflow improvements.
- Foundational - Basic understanding of workflows and ability to identify very simple improvements with guidance.
- Intermediate - Able to review processes, identify inefficiencies, and recommend improvements with some supervision.
- Advanced - Independently evaluates workflows, proposes effective solutions, and ensures improvements enhance efficiency and data quality.
- Expert - Leads organization-level workflow improvement efforts, defines improvement strategies, and mentors others in process analysis.
13
How would you rate your ability to design, build, and maintain databases; structure and optimize data; and write SQL queries, stored procedures, and ETL routines to support reporting and system integration?
- None - No exposure to database concepts or SQL.
- Foundational - Basic understanding of database structures and ability to write simple SQL queries with guidance.
- Intermediate - Able to design small databases, write moderately complex SQL, and support basic ETL tasks with some supervision.
- Advanced - Independently designs scalable databases, optimizes SQL and ETL processes, and ensures data is structured securely and efficiently.
- Expert - Serves as a database architecture authority who leads enterprise design, mentors others, and sets standards for SQL and data processing practices.
14
How would you rate your ability to build and maintain applications using standard development tools (e.g., C#, ASP.NET, JavaScript, SQL Server) to support program operations and user needs?
- None - No experience developing or maintaining applications.
- Foundational - Basic awareness of programming concepts and ability to make simple code changes with guidance.
- Intermediate - Able to develop or maintain routine application features and perform troubleshooting with some supervision.
- Advanced - Independently builds reliable applications, applies secure development practices, and supports complex program requirements.
- Expert - Leads application architecture, establishes development standards, mentors developers, and designs systems for long-term scalability and usability.
15
I understand that Ecology does not use the E-Verify system and is unable to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT).
Required Question
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