Great Schools Partnership
This is a one-year, grant funded, role running through June 30, 2027, with the potential for extension dependent on continued funding.
About the Partnership
We are a dedicated and dynamic group of individuals who have joined together to create a more equitable and just education system in the United States. Located in downtown Portland, Maine, Great Schools Partnership staff work on a variety of small and large-scale educational projects throughout Maine, New England, and the country. Working with educators, administrators, state agencies, community members, parents, and business leaders, we look to create schools where students own their learning, engage in deep work, and prepare themselves for their futures. We believe that each of us needs to be empowered to be creative, take initiative, think outside the box, work collaboratively, and assume leadership roles in the organization. For more detailed information about the Partnership and its work, visit greatschoolspartnership.org .
Our Commitment to Diversity
At the Great Schools Partnership (GSP), we believe our organization should reflect the communities in which we work. We believe diversity makes us stronger. Diversity of race. Of ethnicity. Of language. Of ability. Of gender. Of all the other ways we identify ourselves. We believe who you are is worth celebrating. These beliefs are foundational to all our work. We advocate for and support schools, districts, and school communities on their journeys toward educational equity. We also invest our time and money in ongoing internal equity and anti-racism efforts. Our goal is to provide a welcome, inclusive, and supportive environment for every member of our staff.
What is the big plan for this job?
Provide support for a variety of tasks, projects, teams, GSP staff and daily office operations. This is a one year, grant funded role running through June 30, 2027, with the potential for extension dependent on continued funding.
What will you be doing?
Our hiring process strives to screen in rather than out. We welcome your application even if you feel you are not strong in every qualification outlined below.
Contributing to the overall function of the work environment. You will answer the phone, order supplies, assist with travel arrangements, and make sure staff have what they need to work effectively. You will work to support the smooth day to day running of the office space. You may be asked to provide occasional support to Directors or Managing Director and will serve on key committees and teams in order to best support staff.
Organizing and managing events. GSP offers a variety of virtual and in-person events that give educators the opportunity to come together in various ways for learning and collaboration. Some events require fees, specific materials, digital tools, travel logistics, and off-site coordination. All events require thorough planning with attention to design and delivery. This role will provide support for events with particular attention to events related to a large grant project in the year ahead. The project associate works behind the scenes to ensure a successful experience for participants and fellow colleagues.
Provide direct support for GSP staff. You will need to fulfill requests from senior and coaching associates for contracts and projects; you will provide particular attention to senior associate requests and materials related to the large one year grant project. This may include printing and photocopying, shipping materials, ordering supplies, booking travel, transcribing notes, providing occasional Zoom support for virtual events, and maintaining and organizing project files. This may also include managing budgets, tracking registrations, creating forms, and making all related information to a particular project easy to locate and retrieve for future application.
Ensuring the quality and organization of documents, data and resources. One of the roles of the project associate is to help design clear and user-friendly documents and resources as well as organize data specifically related to the one year grant project. You will be asked to give feedback, edit, and format project-specific documents and materials and coordinate revision processes for tools and resources featured on our website. You will support in organizing online materials and resources.
What qualities do I need to succeed in this role?
You share our commitment to equitable education for every student. This is a job, but it is more than just filling in your time. You need to be committed to public education and believe that by improving the quality of learning we can improve the life-long outcomes of our students and fundamentally and positively impact the lives of everyone in our communities.
Teammates matter. You know that collaboration can create better outcomes. You are dependable with colleagues, supportive of others, and able to tackle a challenge together. You value diversity, respect different ideas, and openly address concerns with your colleagues. The project associate may serve on various teams and smaller committees and task forces within the organization.
You are organized and detail-oriented and you get stuff done. You have strong self-motivational skills and the ability to work both independently and as part of various teams. You are able to prioritize and work with colleagues to set up reasonable deadlines in order to allow for some flexibility and adjustment along the way. You proactively reach out to coaches and offer support for specific tasks.
You understand the value of both verbal and written communication. You are just as comfortable picking up the phone as you are writing an email or formal letter to communicate with clients, vendors and staff. We have the ability to build strong relationships in our communications.
You are a problem-solver. Staff will reach out for specific requests, advice, and resources. You should be prepared to dig deeper to find out how information will be used. You are comfortable in seeking out advice and value the notion that with more ideas there are more solutions.
Technology is your friend. You have extensive knowledge of Google suite and Zoom. As new technology rolls out, you are able to seek out, problem-solve, respond to requests for better tools, and continue to learn and integrate these new opportunities. You are prepared to take on a role of technical support and assistance.
You are prepared for shared leadership. GSP has structures for shared leadership teams. The project associate should expect to serve on various leadership teams and smaller committees and task forces within the organization which may include teams such as: finances, operations, procurement, development, communications.
You get energized when engaged in new personal growth opportunities. You enjoy developing new skills and are not afraid of ambiguity.
Location
You will be based in the GSP office in Portland, Maine. This role will require daily work, four days a week, in the GSP office and one day of work remotely at a home office if desired.
Compensation & Benefits
Each role at Great Schools Partnership is placed in a compensation band with 7 levels. This role sits within Band 1, with a maximum starting salary up to the midpoint. The actual level of the successful candidate (and corresponding salary) will be based on compensable factors such as job-relevant education, job-relevant experience, training, licensure, demonstrated competencies, and other factors. Throughout the interview process, we will evaluate your alignment with the compensable factors listed in the job description and offer a fair, non-negotiable starting salary to the selected candidate. The starting salary for this role ranges between $52,229 and $53,015.
GSP covers the full cost of health insurance for each staff member, 50% of costs of family health insurance, an additional 2.5% of salary contributed to a 403(b) retirement plan, an additional 4.5% of salary into a flex fund for health care or retirement, four weeks of vacation, five personal days, six sick days, eight holidays, tuition reimbursement, and eight weeks of paid parental leave.
GSP is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against candidates on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status, or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, and local laws. Women, people of color, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and members of other minority or marginalized groups are strongly encouraged to apply.
Come Join Us!
Submit your application HERE . Once in the application form, you will be asked to provide information regarding your application, upload your resume, and answer four questions (200 words or less for each response):
How do you stay organized when juggling multiple projects consisting of many tasks and responsibilities?
Describe your familiarity with organizing events or meetings either in-person or virtually. If this is a new area for you, what is it about planning events that interests you the most?
When you review the job description, which skills do you feel most confident performing immediately?
What experiences have you had that make you interested in submitting your application?
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Review date starting May 11, 2026. Applications received before the deadline will be given priority. After May 11, 2026 applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position has been filled.
This is a one-year, grant funded, role running through June 30, 2027, with the potential for extension dependent on continued funding.
About the Partnership
We are a dedicated and dynamic group of individuals who have joined together to create a more equitable and just education system in the United States. Located in downtown Portland, Maine, Great Schools Partnership staff work on a variety of small and large-scale educational projects throughout Maine, New England, and the country. Working with educators, administrators, state agencies, community members, parents, and business leaders, we look to create schools where students own their learning, engage in deep work, and prepare themselves for their futures. We believe that each of us needs to be empowered to be creative, take initiative, think outside the box, work collaboratively, and assume leadership roles in the organization. For more detailed information about the Partnership and its work, visit greatschoolspartnership.org .
Our Commitment to Diversity
At the Great Schools Partnership (GSP), we believe our organization should reflect the communities in which we work. We believe diversity makes us stronger. Diversity of race. Of ethnicity. Of language. Of ability. Of gender. Of all the other ways we identify ourselves. We believe who you are is worth celebrating. These beliefs are foundational to all our work. We advocate for and support schools, districts, and school communities on their journeys toward educational equity. We also invest our time and money in ongoing internal equity and anti-racism efforts. Our goal is to provide a welcome, inclusive, and supportive environment for every member of our staff.
What is the big plan for this job?
Provide support for a variety of tasks, projects, teams, GSP staff and daily office operations. This is a one year, grant funded role running through June 30, 2027, with the potential for extension dependent on continued funding.
What will you be doing?
Our hiring process strives to screen in rather than out. We welcome your application even if you feel you are not strong in every qualification outlined below.
Contributing to the overall function of the work environment. You will answer the phone, order supplies, assist with travel arrangements, and make sure staff have what they need to work effectively. You will work to support the smooth day to day running of the office space. You may be asked to provide occasional support to Directors or Managing Director and will serve on key committees and teams in order to best support staff.
Organizing and managing events. GSP offers a variety of virtual and in-person events that give educators the opportunity to come together in various ways for learning and collaboration. Some events require fees, specific materials, digital tools, travel logistics, and off-site coordination. All events require thorough planning with attention to design and delivery. This role will provide support for events with particular attention to events related to a large grant project in the year ahead. The project associate works behind the scenes to ensure a successful experience for participants and fellow colleagues.
Provide direct support for GSP staff. You will need to fulfill requests from senior and coaching associates for contracts and projects; you will provide particular attention to senior associate requests and materials related to the large one year grant project. This may include printing and photocopying, shipping materials, ordering supplies, booking travel, transcribing notes, providing occasional Zoom support for virtual events, and maintaining and organizing project files. This may also include managing budgets, tracking registrations, creating forms, and making all related information to a particular project easy to locate and retrieve for future application.
Ensuring the quality and organization of documents, data and resources. One of the roles of the project associate is to help design clear and user-friendly documents and resources as well as organize data specifically related to the one year grant project. You will be asked to give feedback, edit, and format project-specific documents and materials and coordinate revision processes for tools and resources featured on our website. You will support in organizing online materials and resources.
What qualities do I need to succeed in this role?
You share our commitment to equitable education for every student. This is a job, but it is more than just filling in your time. You need to be committed to public education and believe that by improving the quality of learning we can improve the life-long outcomes of our students and fundamentally and positively impact the lives of everyone in our communities.
Teammates matter. You know that collaboration can create better outcomes. You are dependable with colleagues, supportive of others, and able to tackle a challenge together. You value diversity, respect different ideas, and openly address concerns with your colleagues. The project associate may serve on various teams and smaller committees and task forces within the organization.
You are organized and detail-oriented and you get stuff done. You have strong self-motivational skills and the ability to work both independently and as part of various teams. You are able to prioritize and work with colleagues to set up reasonable deadlines in order to allow for some flexibility and adjustment along the way. You proactively reach out to coaches and offer support for specific tasks.
You understand the value of both verbal and written communication. You are just as comfortable picking up the phone as you are writing an email or formal letter to communicate with clients, vendors and staff. We have the ability to build strong relationships in our communications.
You are a problem-solver. Staff will reach out for specific requests, advice, and resources. You should be prepared to dig deeper to find out how information will be used. You are comfortable in seeking out advice and value the notion that with more ideas there are more solutions.
Technology is your friend. You have extensive knowledge of Google suite and Zoom. As new technology rolls out, you are able to seek out, problem-solve, respond to requests for better tools, and continue to learn and integrate these new opportunities. You are prepared to take on a role of technical support and assistance.
You are prepared for shared leadership. GSP has structures for shared leadership teams. The project associate should expect to serve on various leadership teams and smaller committees and task forces within the organization which may include teams such as: finances, operations, procurement, development, communications.
You get energized when engaged in new personal growth opportunities. You enjoy developing new skills and are not afraid of ambiguity.
Location
You will be based in the GSP office in Portland, Maine. This role will require daily work, four days a week, in the GSP office and one day of work remotely at a home office if desired.
Compensation & Benefits
Each role at Great Schools Partnership is placed in a compensation band with 7 levels. This role sits within Band 1, with a maximum starting salary up to the midpoint. The actual level of the successful candidate (and corresponding salary) will be based on compensable factors such as job-relevant education, job-relevant experience, training, licensure, demonstrated competencies, and other factors. Throughout the interview process, we will evaluate your alignment with the compensable factors listed in the job description and offer a fair, non-negotiable starting salary to the selected candidate. The starting salary for this role ranges between $52,229 and $53,015.
GSP covers the full cost of health insurance for each staff member, 50% of costs of family health insurance, an additional 2.5% of salary contributed to a 403(b) retirement plan, an additional 4.5% of salary into a flex fund for health care or retirement, four weeks of vacation, five personal days, six sick days, eight holidays, tuition reimbursement, and eight weeks of paid parental leave.
GSP is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against candidates on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status, or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, and local laws. Women, people of color, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and members of other minority or marginalized groups are strongly encouraged to apply.
Come Join Us!
Submit your application HERE . Once in the application form, you will be asked to provide information regarding your application, upload your resume, and answer four questions (200 words or less for each response):
How do you stay organized when juggling multiple projects consisting of many tasks and responsibilities?
Describe your familiarity with organizing events or meetings either in-person or virtually. If this is a new area for you, what is it about planning events that interests you the most?
When you review the job description, which skills do you feel most confident performing immediately?
What experiences have you had that make you interested in submitting your application?
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Review date starting May 11, 2026. Applications received before the deadline will be given priority. After May 11, 2026 applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position has been filled.
Washington State Department of Ecology
Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen
The Department of Ecology is hiring a Quality Assurance Coordinator - MEL (Chemist 4) within the Environmental Assessment Program .
Location:
Manchester Environmental Laboratory in Port Orchard, 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 three days per week is required in the office. During the first 90-day training period, this position will be in the office 5 days per week.
Schedules are dependent upon position needs and are subject to change.
Application Timeline:
Apply by April 26, 2026.
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 the date above may not be considered.
Duties
In this role as the Quality Assurance Coordinator at the Manchester Environmental Laboratory, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring that all laboratory data is accurate, reliable, and scientifically defensible while supporting Ecology’s mission to protect Washington’s environment. You will lead the development and continuous improvement of the lab’s regulatory-compliant Quality Management System, manage internal and external audits, including corrective and preventive actions, and guides staff on quality standards and best practices. This role is particularly interesting for job seekers who enjoy complex, multidisciplinary scientific work, as it provides unique experience in accreditation, method validation, data integrity, and cross-agency collaboration. In this role you will have opportunities for professional growth as you will function as the lab’s quality authority, build leadership skills through technical guidance and coordination, and contribute directly to high-impact environmental decision-making.
What you will do:
Lead the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of the laboratory’s regulatory-compliant Quality Management System. Ensure all processes meet regulatory requirements for accreditation.
Manage document control for the Quality Assurance Manual, SOPs, controlled forms, and all quality system records. Ensure documents are current, accurate, and properly maintained.
Coordinate internal audits and ensure that findings are documented, communicated, and resolved in a timely manner. Track corrective actions and verify their effectiveness.
Prepare for and support external accreditation assessments conducted by the Laboratory Accreditation Unit and other accrediting bodies. Maintain all required accreditation documentation and renewal applications.
Manage the corrective and preventive action (CAPA) program, including root-cause analysis and follow-up. Ensure implementation of appropriate corrective actions to maintain data integrity.
Administer the proficiency testing (PT) program, including enrollment, evaluation of results, and documentation of required follow-up actions. Ensure PT results meet accreditation standards.
Review QA/QC data, method validation documentation, and analytical reports to ensure accuracy, defensibility, and compliance with regulatory and method requirements. Provide guidance to staff on quality expectations and best practices.
Collaborate with project officers and contract laboratories to ensure Scopes of Work and conduct data validation of external laboratory data align with data quality objectives. Provide technical assistance to ensure data meet program and regulatory standards.
Qualifications
For detailed information on how we calculate experience and responses to other frequently asked questions, please visit our Recruitment website .
Required Qualifications:
Ten (10) years of experience and/or education as described below:
Experience performing chemical analysis of environmental samples following EPA and/or Standard Method analytical techniques in an environmental laboratory.
Experience must include all of the following:
Leadership Experience: One year or more of experience leading or supervising professional chemists.
Quality System and Process Management: Ability to lead, maintain, and continuously improve quality systems, including method validation, performance monitoring, and equipment calibration, to ensure scientifically sound and consistent operations.
Regulatory and Accreditation Compliance: Ability to interpret and apply laws, regulations, standards, and accreditation requirements, coordinate internal and external audits, and ensure ongoing compliance and program approval.
Corrective Action, Problem-Solving, and Continuous Improvement: Ability to identify root causes, implement effective corrective actions, and verify results to prevent recurrence and strengthen processes.
Data Integrity and Technical Review: Ability to review technical documents, reports, and data for accuracy, completeness, and defensibility.
Program, Workload, and Resource Management: Ability to plan, prioritize, and manage multiple responsibilities, deadlines, and resources while maintaining high-quality outcomes.
Communication, Collaboration, and Technical Guidance: Ability to communicate clearly, provide instruction, build productive working relationships, and support staff and partners in meeting quality standards.
Education must include a major in chemistry, environmental science, microbiology, or a related scientific field with a minimum of 30 semester hours or 45 quarter hours of college level chemistry
Examples of how to qualify:
10 years of experience.
9 years of experience AND 30-59 semester or 45-89 quarter college credits.
8 years of experience AND 60-89 semester or 90-134 quarter college credits (Associate’s degree).
7 years of experience AND 90-119 semester or 135-179 quarter college credits.
6 years of experience AND a Bachelor’s degree.
4 years of experience AND a Master’s degree.
3 years of experience AND a Ph.D.
Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment:
Required to obtain federal security clearance and maintain security clearance during their employment at the Department of Ecology’s Manchester Environmental Laboratory (MEL).
Desired Qualifications:
Experience managing or implementing an ISO/IEC 17025 and WAC compliant Quality Management System.
Experience conducting internal audits, managing corrective actions, or coordinating accreditation activities.
Experience with data validation, method development, or technical review of analytical data.
Experience in a multi-discipline environmental laboratory.
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:
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 Robert Waldrop at Robert.Waldrop@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 Environmental Assessment Program
Program Mission Statement: The mission of the Environmental Assessment Program (EAP) is to measure, assess and communicate environmental conditions in Washington State. EAP’s vision is improving the environment for current and future generations through innovative and excellent science and thriving partnerships. Commitments include: professional, respectful, responsive, timely, innovative, exceptional customer service, partnerships, cooperative relationships, and continuous improvement.
The Department of Ecology’s Manchester Environmental Laboratory (MEL) is the state’s primary environmental laboratory, providing high-quality, scientifically defensible data that support Washington’s environmental protection, regulatory enforcement, and natural resource management efforts. Through rigorous analytical work and a comprehensive Quality Management System, MEL ensures that Ecology and partner agencies have reliable information to assess environmental conditions, guide policy decisions, and safeguard public and ecological health.
Located in Manchester, Washington, near Port Orchard on the Olympic Peninsula, the Department of Ecology’s Manchester Environmental Laboratory (MEL) operates within a federal facility shared with the EPA Region 10 Environmental Laboratory. This co-location supports strong collaboration between state and federal scientists, enhances access to high-quality laboratory resources, and helps ensure that Washington receives scientifically robust data to guide environmental protection and regulatory decision-making. Employees must obtain federal security clearance and maintain their security clearance during their employment at the Department of Ecology’s Manchester Environmental Laboratory (MEL).
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 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.
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 Incentives , 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.
Keeping Washington Clean and Evergreen
The Department of Ecology is hiring a Quality Assurance Coordinator - MEL (Chemist 4) within the Environmental Assessment Program .
Location:
Manchester Environmental Laboratory in Port Orchard, 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 three days per week is required in the office. During the first 90-day training period, this position will be in the office 5 days per week.
Schedules are dependent upon position needs and are subject to change.
Application Timeline:
Apply by April 26, 2026.
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 the date above may not be considered.
Duties
In this role as the Quality Assurance Coordinator at the Manchester Environmental Laboratory, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring that all laboratory data is accurate, reliable, and scientifically defensible while supporting Ecology’s mission to protect Washington’s environment. You will lead the development and continuous improvement of the lab’s regulatory-compliant Quality Management System, manage internal and external audits, including corrective and preventive actions, and guides staff on quality standards and best practices. This role is particularly interesting for job seekers who enjoy complex, multidisciplinary scientific work, as it provides unique experience in accreditation, method validation, data integrity, and cross-agency collaboration. In this role you will have opportunities for professional growth as you will function as the lab’s quality authority, build leadership skills through technical guidance and coordination, and contribute directly to high-impact environmental decision-making.
What you will do:
Lead the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of the laboratory’s regulatory-compliant Quality Management System. Ensure all processes meet regulatory requirements for accreditation.
Manage document control for the Quality Assurance Manual, SOPs, controlled forms, and all quality system records. Ensure documents are current, accurate, and properly maintained.
Coordinate internal audits and ensure that findings are documented, communicated, and resolved in a timely manner. Track corrective actions and verify their effectiveness.
Prepare for and support external accreditation assessments conducted by the Laboratory Accreditation Unit and other accrediting bodies. Maintain all required accreditation documentation and renewal applications.
Manage the corrective and preventive action (CAPA) program, including root-cause analysis and follow-up. Ensure implementation of appropriate corrective actions to maintain data integrity.
Administer the proficiency testing (PT) program, including enrollment, evaluation of results, and documentation of required follow-up actions. Ensure PT results meet accreditation standards.
Review QA/QC data, method validation documentation, and analytical reports to ensure accuracy, defensibility, and compliance with regulatory and method requirements. Provide guidance to staff on quality expectations and best practices.
Collaborate with project officers and contract laboratories to ensure Scopes of Work and conduct data validation of external laboratory data align with data quality objectives. Provide technical assistance to ensure data meet program and regulatory standards.
Qualifications
For detailed information on how we calculate experience and responses to other frequently asked questions, please visit our Recruitment website .
Required Qualifications:
Ten (10) years of experience and/or education as described below:
Experience performing chemical analysis of environmental samples following EPA and/or Standard Method analytical techniques in an environmental laboratory.
Experience must include all of the following:
Leadership Experience: One year or more of experience leading or supervising professional chemists.
Quality System and Process Management: Ability to lead, maintain, and continuously improve quality systems, including method validation, performance monitoring, and equipment calibration, to ensure scientifically sound and consistent operations.
Regulatory and Accreditation Compliance: Ability to interpret and apply laws, regulations, standards, and accreditation requirements, coordinate internal and external audits, and ensure ongoing compliance and program approval.
Corrective Action, Problem-Solving, and Continuous Improvement: Ability to identify root causes, implement effective corrective actions, and verify results to prevent recurrence and strengthen processes.
Data Integrity and Technical Review: Ability to review technical documents, reports, and data for accuracy, completeness, and defensibility.
Program, Workload, and Resource Management: Ability to plan, prioritize, and manage multiple responsibilities, deadlines, and resources while maintaining high-quality outcomes.
Communication, Collaboration, and Technical Guidance: Ability to communicate clearly, provide instruction, build productive working relationships, and support staff and partners in meeting quality standards.
Education must include a major in chemistry, environmental science, microbiology, or a related scientific field with a minimum of 30 semester hours or 45 quarter hours of college level chemistry
Examples of how to qualify:
10 years of experience.
9 years of experience AND 30-59 semester or 45-89 quarter college credits.
8 years of experience AND 60-89 semester or 90-134 quarter college credits (Associate’s degree).
7 years of experience AND 90-119 semester or 135-179 quarter college credits.
6 years of experience AND a Bachelor’s degree.
4 years of experience AND a Master’s degree.
3 years of experience AND a Ph.D.
Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment:
Required to obtain federal security clearance and maintain security clearance during their employment at the Department of Ecology’s Manchester Environmental Laboratory (MEL).
Desired Qualifications:
Experience managing or implementing an ISO/IEC 17025 and WAC compliant Quality Management System.
Experience conducting internal audits, managing corrective actions, or coordinating accreditation activities.
Experience with data validation, method development, or technical review of analytical data.
Experience in a multi-discipline environmental laboratory.
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:
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 Robert Waldrop at Robert.Waldrop@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 Environmental Assessment Program
Program Mission Statement: The mission of the Environmental Assessment Program (EAP) is to measure, assess and communicate environmental conditions in Washington State. EAP’s vision is improving the environment for current and future generations through innovative and excellent science and thriving partnerships. Commitments include: professional, respectful, responsive, timely, innovative, exceptional customer service, partnerships, cooperative relationships, and continuous improvement.
The Department of Ecology’s Manchester Environmental Laboratory (MEL) is the state’s primary environmental laboratory, providing high-quality, scientifically defensible data that support Washington’s environmental protection, regulatory enforcement, and natural resource management efforts. Through rigorous analytical work and a comprehensive Quality Management System, MEL ensures that Ecology and partner agencies have reliable information to assess environmental conditions, guide policy decisions, and safeguard public and ecological health.
Located in Manchester, Washington, near Port Orchard on the Olympic Peninsula, the Department of Ecology’s Manchester Environmental Laboratory (MEL) operates within a federal facility shared with the EPA Region 10 Environmental Laboratory. This co-location supports strong collaboration between state and federal scientists, enhances access to high-quality laboratory resources, and helps ensure that Washington receives scientifically robust data to guide environmental protection and regulatory decision-making. Employees must obtain federal security clearance and maintain their security clearance during their employment at the Department of Ecology’s Manchester Environmental Laboratory (MEL).
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 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.
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 Incentives , 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.
