| Location | Lacey, WA |
| Salary | $76,608–$102,996 Per Year |
Climate Policy: Cap-and-Invest Electricity/Clean Energy Siting Specialist (Environmental Planner 4)
Salary
$76,608.00 - $102,996.00 Annually
Location
Thurston County - Lacey, WA
Job Type
Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment
Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number
2026-CPR5436-06457
Department
Dept. of Ecology
Division
Climate Pollution Reduction Program
Opening Date
10/27/2026
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
The Department of Ecology is hiring a Cap-and-Invest Electricity/Clean Energy Siting Specialist (Environmental Planner 4) within the Climate Pollution Reduction Program (CPRP).
Location:
Headquarters Office in Lacey, WA.
Upon hire, you must live within a commutable distance from the duty station.
Schedule:
This position is eligible for telework and flexible schedule options.
A minimum of one day per week is required in the office. This position is expected to be in the office for a full workday every Tuesday.
Schedules are dependent upon position needs and are subject to change.
Application Timeline:
Apply by November 9, 2026.
Applications submitted after the date above may not be reviewed unless additional qualified applicants are needed.
Duties
Washington is advancing some of the most ambitious clean-energy and climate policies in the nation, and we are seeking an Electricity and Clean Energy Siting Specialist to help guide this work. In this role, you will serve as a subject-matter expert at the intersection of energy markets, greenhouse gas regulation, and clean-energy facility siting. You will provide analytical insight, policy interpretation, and technical guidance to support effective implementation of the Climate Commitment Act, the Clean Energy Transformation Act, and the state's Emissions Performance Standard. This position offers the opportunity to work across programs and agencies, contribute to major policy decisions, and help shape the state's transition to a cleaner and more resilient electricity system. If you are motivated by complex clean-energy challenges and public-service impact, we encourage you to apply.
What you will do:
Serve as a lead resource on clean-energy facility siting, advising on greenhouse-gas requirements under the Climate Commitment Act, the Clean Energy Transformation Act, and the Emissions Performance Standard.
Provide clear guidance to project developers on how to meet regulatory and reporting obligations related to emissions, electricity imports, and electricity-sector compliance.
Coordinate closely with teams across Ecology to support efficient, consistent permitting pathways and promote awareness of clean-energy siting and emissions requirements.
Collaborate with other Washington State agencies to ensure aligned interpretation and implementation of Washington's clean-energy laws.
Analyze electricity-sector trends, market structures, and policy proposals to evaluate impacts, develop recommendations, and support rulemaking and legislative review.
Create practical tools that help compare technical or policy options, and offer clear, science-based feedback on methods, data, and interpretations used in proposals from utilities, industries, environmental groups, and government partners.
Serve as Cap-and-Invest policy lead for clean electricity policy related to electricity importer rules, electric power entities, and centralized electricity market development.
Develop technical guidance, reports, and tools to support regulatory determinations, emissions quantification, and effective implementation of the Cap-and-Invest Program.
Engage with utilities, Tribes, regulated entities, and other partners to communicate requirements, clarify policy interpretation, and support understanding of program expectations.
Qualifications
For detailed information on how we calculate experience and responses to other frequently asked questions, please visit our Recruitment website.
Required Qualifications:
Nine years of experience and/or education related to the duties of the position, which includes the following:
Education: with major emphasis in environmental science and/or policy; other areas of science and/or policy; energy, economics, finance, or business; or other subjects or areas applicable to electricity and natural gas utilities functioning and regulation, greenhouse gas emissions allowance allocation, auctions, and/or markets, or closely allied fields.
Examples of how to qualify:
9 years of experience.
8 years of experience AND 30-59 semester or 45-89 quarter college credits.
7 years of experience AND 60-89 semester or 90-134 quarter college credits (Associate's degree).
6 years of experience AND 90-119 semester or 135-179 quarter college credits.
5 years of experience AND a Bachelor's degree.
3 years of experience AND a Master's degree.
2 years of experience AND a Ph.D.
Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment:
A background check will be conducted, which may include criminal record history, fingerprinting, and credit history. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment, but will be considered in determining the applicants suitability and competence to perform in the position.
Desired Qualifications:
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 preferred 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 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 www.uscis.gov.
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 the following required documents:
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 Recruitment website.
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 careers@ecy.wa.gov
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 Andrew Hayes at Andrew.Hayes@ecy.wa.gov.
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
About the Climate Pollution Reduction Program
The mission of the Climate Pollution Reduction Program (CPRP) is to guide Washington to a net zero future by 2050. CPRP implements policies that encourage businesses and individuals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and build a clean energy economy.
The Cap-and-Invest Group within Ecology's Climate Pollution Reduction Program leads the design and implementation of Washington's cap and invest program, which employs market mechanisms to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in a cost-effective manner. As part of the Cap-and-Invest program, businesses and entities are required to obtain allowances tied to their emissions, which can be bought, sold, and traded. This market began in January 2023, and the proceeds are invested in initiatives to decarbonize transportation and other sectors of the economy, promote clean energy, and advance equity and environmental justice.
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.
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Respect (DEIR) are core values central to Ecologys 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.
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.
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 Incentive, Combined Fund Drive, SmartHealth *Click here for more information
To learn more about Ecology, please visit our website, explore Working at Ecology, 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. 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
01
How did you hear about this job?
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.
05
Please assess your ability to apply electricity-system concepts and greenhouse gas quantification methods to assess emissions, facility siting approaches, or regulatory compliance.
06
Please evaluate your ability to analyze electric power markets, electricity import dynamics, and utility operations to inform clean energy policy or program implementation.
07
Describe a time you analyzed a complex policy issue, preferably related to energy, environmental regulation, or a comparable field, and developed recommendations or a proposed solution. What approach did you take to evaluate options, and how did your work support implementation or decision-making? If you do not have this experience, enter N/A.
08
Provide an example of when you interpreted a regulatory or statutory requirement and translated it into clear, implementable guidance for others. What steps did you take to ensure accuracy and clarity? If you do not have this experience, enter N/A.
09
Please assess your ability to clearly communicate complex clean energy, regulatory, or technical concepts in writing and verbally to support shared understanding and decision making.
10
Please provide an example of when you communicated complex policy, technical, or regulatory information in a way that improved understanding or shaped a decision. If you do not have this experience, enter N/A.
11
Describe a situation where you collaborated across different teams or organizations to align interpretations of technical or regulatory requirements. What role did you play, and what was the outcome? If you do not have this experience, enter N/A.
12
Provide an example of a time when you evaluated multiple sources of complex technical or policy information to make a recommendation. How did you assess the information, and what factors influenced your final decision? If you do not have this experience, enter N/A.
13
Please assess your ability to plan, organize, and complete multifaceted analytical or policy assignments to deliver accurate and timely work products.
14
Please provide additional details to support your responses to Questions 5 - 13 above. The following information is needed: position title(s), specific duties, and periods of employment. Make sure your response specifically addresses the qualifications below. An incomplete answer, including "please see resume" may remove you from further consideration.
15
What is your level of education?
16
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 dont have this education, put N/A.
17
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 everyones 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?
18
I understand that Ecology does not use the E-Verify system and is unable to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT).
Required Question
Employer State of Washington
Address View Job Posting for Agency Information
View Job Posting for Location, Washington, 98504
Website http://www.careers.wa.gov