DNR Mine Reclamation Specialist – Spokane & Wenatchee

Position Description

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.

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.

Compensation

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

Application Information

Application Requirements: Failure to provide the listed documents may result in disqualification. If you have questions or difficulty attaching these documents, please contact dnrrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov.

• Apply online: at www.careers.wa.gov
• Letter of interest: describing your specific qualifications for the position and the position required, desired, and special requirements.
• Resume: that details your experience and qualifications.
• References: 3-5 professional references with current telephone numbers, to include your 2 most recent supervisors. 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 Ben Stanton at ben.stanton@dnr.wa.gov/509-724-9787 or email us at DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov

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.

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.

A full copy of the job description can be found here.