AGO Investigator/Analyst, Environmental Protection Division, Seattle

AGO Investigator/Analyst, Environmental Protection Division, Seattle

Salary

$6,384.00 - $8,583.00 Monthly

Location

King County - Seattle - Downtown Business, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

2026-08787

Department

Attorney Generals Office

Division

Environmental Protection Division

Opening Date

10/21/2026

Closing Date

11/11/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

Salary Information

The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Description

Persons requiring reasonable accommodation in the application process or requiring information in an alternative format may contact the recruitment team at HREmployment@atg.wa.gov. Those with a hearing impairment in need of accommodation are encouraged to contact the Washington Relay Service at 1-800-676-3777 or www.washingtonrelay.com.

Position and Salary

The Attorney General's Office is recruiting for a permanent full time AGO Investigator/Analyst in the Environmental Protection Division. This position is located in Seattle, Washington, and is represented by the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE).

AGO Investigator/Analyst Salary Range (63): $76,608 - $102,996 (annually)

The base pay offered will take into account internal equity and may vary depending on the preferred candidate's job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.

The following stipends may apply based on position requirements:

• Incumbents assigned to our Seattle office location receive an additional 5% King County Location Pay stipend.

The AGO provides a workplace that is understanding of work-life balance and promotes advancement by offering a wide variety of professional development and growth opportunities.

Excellent benefits

Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation, including Medical/Dental/Vision for employees & dependent(s); Vacation, Sick, and Other Leave; 11 Paid Holidays per year; Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) plans; and Life Insurance. Beyond these traditional benefits, we offer Dependent Care Assistance, Flexible Spending Accounts, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, Tuition Waiver, Deferred Compensation, Employee Recognition Leave, and more. With the goal of employee health and wellness, we also offer:

• Flexible schedules and part-time/hybrid telework options;
• A Wellness Program, an Infants in the Workplace Program, and the Employee Assistance Program, which provides counseling, webinar, and other cost-free support resources;
• Numerous employee-driven affinity groups to foster community and connection, including Bereavement, Elder Care, Parenting, POC, LGBTQ+, Veterans and more. The AGO is a place to belong and make a difference!

About the Environmental Protection Division

The Environmental Protection Division (EDP) is hiring an investigator/analyst who will find, document and analyze evidence to help prove civil environmental violations, including claims under the Clean Water Act, Clean Air Act, waste disposal statutes, and state laws protecting Washingtonians from toxics in products. We are looking for someone with a passion for protecting Washington's people, environment, and natural resources, and with the skills and dedication to delve into databases, permits, and compliance reports, to directly observe and document violations in the field, and to work with partners across a wide variety of local, state, and federal agencies, including the Department of Ecology and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. In keeping with the AGO's anti-racist commitment, this investigator will also play a key role in developing cases pursuing environmental justice.

This investigator will work closely and collaboratively with a dynamic team of attorneys and professional staff. The successful candidate for this position will have experience writing investigative reports, organizing information, and working with rules, policies, permits, and compliance. This position should have familiarity with or should be capable of developing expertise in gleaning information from databases like the Water Quality Permitting and Reporting Information System (PARIS), ICIS-AIR, RCRAInfo, and the Facility Registry Service (FRS). A successful candidate will understand how or will be able to quickly develop skills to identify a violation of environmental law, document it, and work with attorneys and professional help to prove that violation. The ideal applicant will also have experience in, or an interest in learning to use, equipment like a portable X-ray fluorescent (XRF) analyzer, which can identify certain chemicals.

Experience that may be applicable to environmental investigations may include that of an inspector, auditor, compliance technician, scientist, researcher, or law enforcement officer with investigation experience.

Duties and Essential Functions of an AGO Investigator/Analyst

The Environmental Investigator (AGO Investigator/Analyst) will conduct investigations of civil environmental violations. This position will have the opportunity and responsibility to build and maintain professional relationships with partners in the Attorney General's Office, other state agencies like the Department of Ecology, local agencies like utility and waste regulators, and federal agencies including the Environmental Protection Agency.

This position will design investigation plans, review paper and electronic records, conduct witness interviews, collect evidence, identify applicable laws, and collaborate with attorneys on case strategy. The Investigator/Analyst will draft investigative reports, memoranda, evidence logs and spreadsheets, case summaries for internal use, and declarations or affidavits that may be filed in support of environmental litigation, and testify at trial or other court proceedings.

Duties include, but are not limited to:

• Independently initiating, designing, and planning the scope and direction of complex investigations.
• Identifying, locating, collecting, organizing, analyzing, and assessing documentary, statistical, computer, and demonstrative evidence, including records and other information obtained from public and private sources for use in civil litigation proceedings;
• Reviewing, permit conditions, inspection and clean-up reports from databases such as PARIS, ICIS-AIR, RCRAInfo, and the FRS to help prove civil environmental violations;
• Working closely with state and federal agencies, the public, local and statewide law enforcement, and AGO attorneys to develop and help to prove civil environmental violations in the State of Washington.
• Collecting, analyzing, and processing data, tips, and complaints from a myriad of sources to develop environmental investigations.
• Observing and documenting data in the field; using technical equipment to measure or test items or samples in the field; taking environmental samples for laboratory testing.
• Conducting witness interviews; collecting, taking, and analyzing evidence; reviewing financial statements and documents.
• Exercising excellent judgment and maintaining the highest degree of professionalism and ethical conduct.
• Effectively conveying ideas and information both in writing and verbally using language that is appropriate to both the complexity of the topic and knowledge of the recipient.
• Serving as a consultant to state and local agencies for the investigation of environmental violations.
• Providing training to local and state partners on environmental investigations.
• Potentially assisting the Senior Investigator/Analyst assigned to criminal investigations
• Working to promote the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people regardless of race, color, national origin, or income, with respect to the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies.

This recruitment announcement may be used to fill multiple open positions for the same classification, in addition to the position(s) listed in this announcement.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's degree and five years of experience conducting investigations, which include the authority to independently plan and conduct investigations in civil or criminal cases.

Additional qualifying investigative experience may substitute year for year for education.

Required Occupational Competencies

• Analysis - Uses and presents data and information in a clear and rational thought process to assess and understand issues and events; evaluate and form accurate conclusions and make decisions.
• Interviewing /Interrogation - Uses effective techniques when obtaining sworn statements and in conducting witness/subject interviews in ways that enhance clarity, information flow and reliability of information; uses multiple sources; uses tact in broaching subjects of a sensitive nature. Maintains objectivity consistent with professional standards and requisite training; post interview.
• Researching and Gathering Information - Effectively identifies, collects, organizes and documents data and information in ways that make the information most useful for subsequent assessment analysis and investigation or responsiveness to discovery.
• Workload / Caseload Management - Prioritizes and handles multiple competing case assignments and urgent situations, integrating many factors into case decisions and priorities.
• Knowledge of Laws, Rules, Statutes and Regulations - Possesses a thorough understanding of federal and state governmental laws, rules, regulations and statutes, and initiates compliance in a way that is fair, objective and reasonable; serves as a model of ethics and integrity in carrying out investigative activities.
• Interpersonal Relationships / Interpersonal Skills - Demonstrates responsible behavior; is polite, courteous, cooperative, flexible, and maintains emotional control and objectivity in work situations. Is respectful to all persons and demonstrates empathy.

Conditions of Employment

• A background check consisting of employment history, professional references and educational verification (e.g., degree, license, or official transcript) may be conducted. Prior to any offer, the applicant selected will be required to submit to and pass a fingerprint-based criminal background check conducted by the Washington State Patrol, Criminal Records Division. The incumbent will submit to additional background checks as a condition of employment every five (5) years thereafter.

• A valid non-probationary Washington State Drivers License is required for this position in order to legally operate state vehicles.

About the Washington State Office of the Attorney General

The Attorney General's Office (AGO) touches the lives of every resident in this state. We serve more than 230 state agencies, boards, commissions, colleges and universities, as well as the Legislature and the Governor. The Office is comprised of nearly 700 attorneys and 800 professional staff, all working together to deliver the highest quality professional legal services to Washington state officials, agencies, and entities. This includes:

• Economic justice and consumer protections (safeguarding consumers, protecting youth, seniors, and other vulnerable populations)
• Social justice and civil rights (addressing discrimination, environmental protection, and veteran and military resources)
• Criminal justice and public safety (investigative and prosecutorial support, financial crimes)
• And much more!

Our agency also has national reach, representing the State of Washington before the Supreme Court, the Court of Appeals and trial courts in all cases that involve the state's interest. If you want to make a difference, we may be the perfect fit for you! Learn more about the AGO here.

Commitment to Diversity

Diversity is critical to the success of the mission of the AGO. This means recognizing, respecting, and appreciating all cultures and backgrounds-- and fostering the inclusion of differences between people. Appreciating, valuing and implementing principles of diversity permits AGO employees to achieve their fullest potential in an inclusive, respectful environment.

One recent measure of the AGOs commitment to diversity can be found in its nomination for Rainbow Alliance and Inclusion Networks "Outstanding Agency Award" in 2019. Our commitment to employee wellness is reflected in earning the 2024 Zo8 Washington Wellness Award.

Application Instructions

In addition to completing the online application, applicants must attach the following documents to their profile in order to be considered for this position:

• A letter of interest, describing your specific qualifications for the position;
• A current resume detailing experience and education.

Read the Following Information Completely:

• Carefully review your application for accuracy, spelling and grammar before submitting.
• You may not reapply to this posting for 30 days.
• The initial screening of applications will be solely based on the contents and completeness of the "work experience" and "education" sections of your application in www.careers.wa.gov, completeness of the application material submitted, and responses to the supplemental questionnaire.
• A resume will not substitute for completing the "work experience" section of the application.
• All information may be verified and documentation may be required.
• The Washington State Office of the Attorney General does not use the E-Verify system; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov.

Equal Employment Opportunity and Accommodations Requests

Honoring diversity, equity and inclusion means that as an agency, and as individuals, we are committed to ensuring that all employees and volunteers enjoy a respectful, safe and supportive working environment. Only by fostering the inclusion of people from all backgrounds, cultures and attributes, can AGO employees and volunteers achieve their fullest potential and best advance the goals and mission of the AGO.

The AGO is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, sex, marital status, sexual orientation/gender identity, age, disability, honorably discharged veteran or military status, retaliation or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability. Persons requiring reasonable accommodation in the application process or requiring information in an alternative format may contact the recruitment team at HREmployment@atg.wa.gov. Those with a hearing impairment in need of accommodation are encouraged to contact the Washington Relay Service at 1-800-676-3777 or www.washingtonrelay.com.

For questions regarding this recruitment or assistance with the application process, please contact the recruitment team at HREmployment@atg.wa.gov. If you are having technical difficulties creating, accessing or completing your application, please call NEOGOV toll-free at (855) 524-5627 or support@neogov.com.

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. Thats 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 WAC 357-31-165(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 WAC 357-31-165(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 WAC 357-58-175, 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, 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 Leave

Leave Sharing

Parental Leave

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

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Employer State of Washington

Address View Job Posting for Agency Information

View Job Posting for Location, Washington, 98504

Website http://www.careers.wa.gov