Environmental Visa Sponsorship Jobs in Washington
Washington state is a strong market for environmental visa sponsorship jobs, with hiring concentrated in Seattle, Bellevue, and Olympia across consulting firms like Tetra Tech and WSP, federal agencies, utilities such as Puget Sound Energy, and tribal environmental programs. The state's aggressive clean energy and salmon recovery mandates drive consistent demand for environmental scientists, engineers, and planners.
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About WSDOT
The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal agency with a global reputation for excellence. Our dedicated workforce plans, designs, builds, and operates an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state. In addition to maintaining over 20,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT manages the world's longest floating bridge, leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, holds the record for the world’s widest tunneling project, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!
The Opportunity
WSDOT is currently seeking a Transportation Planning Specialist 4 (TPS4, In-Training) to join the Northwest Region (NWR) Environmental Program as our region Hazardous Materials Lead in protecting Washington’s environment and communities as part of operating and improving the state transportation system. The NWR Environmental team works closely with all transportation partners, users, and diverse communities to protect and improve the environment through its policy development, technical support and training, and leadership in sustainability and resiliency. This lead position supports the agency’s mission, strategic plan goal areas, and safety of the traveling public by serving as a regional leader in hazardous materials and solid waste.
The role applies best available science and professional judgment to conduct studies, prepare technical documentation, and ensure compliance with environmental regulations. This lead position supports compliance with federal and state environmental requirements, including the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA), Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA), Model Toxics Control Act (MTCA), and the Clean Water Act (CWA). Work includes preparing and overseeing hazardous materials technical reports, Phase I and Phase II Environmental Site Assessments, Sampling and Analysis Plans and other advanced transportation studies. The lead also coordinates with regional and headquarters staff on the development and implementation of statewide policies, as well as training and other program initiatives. The position is based in the NWR Dayton HQ office and is supervised by a regional Technical Services Supervisor, with additional technical support from the Headquarters (HQ) ESO Hazardous Materials Program.
What to Expect
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the NWR Hazardous Materials Lead will:
- Facilitate resolution of technical hazardous materials and solid waste management issues within the NWR.
- Effectively and proactively coordinate, independently or as a team member, HazMat program deliverables, and services with others in NWR and occasionally with HQ-ESO to develop effective solutions, maximize efficiency and expedite the environmental permitting and approval process.
- Maintain advanced knowledge of hazardous materials and solid waste management sciences and resources and utilize advanced techniques in decision making.
- Perform project field reviews to ensure appropriate techniques are being used to handle hazardous materials and waste.
- Manage and direct work of hazardous materials for staff, consultants, and contractors when required; develop or review consultant scopes of work, budgets, and sampling and analysis plans.
- In collaboration with HQ HazMat Program and other regions, implement training programs to establish and maintain needed level of hazardous materials and solid waste management related competence in construction.
Qualifications
This is a Transportation Planning Specialist 4 position. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at a lower level in the classification series based on candidate qualifications, providing an opportunity for an individual to gain the required experience on the job as part of a formal “in-training” plan.
- Hazardous Materials Regulatory Expertise: Advanced knowledge of hazardous materials regulations, characterization methods, and cleanup strategies, including federal, state, and local environmental requirements.
- Environmental Data Analysis & Interpretation: Expert-level ability to interpret and analyze complex environmental data, including soil, groundwater, air, and material sampling results.
- Technical Reporting & Documentation: Advanced proficiency in developing, reviewing, and approving technical reports, including Environmental Site Assessments, Phase I and Phase II hazardous materials surveys, remediation plans, and contractor submittals.
- Hazardous Materials Investigations & Field Oversight: Advanced experience leading or overseeing hazardous materials investigations, including scoping, field oversight, data evaluation, and coordination with multidisciplinary teams and contractors.
- Contaminant Fate, Transport & Risk Assessment: Comprehensive understanding of contaminant fate and transport, risk pathways, and conditions requiring mitigation or removal before and during construction or maintenance activities.
- Technical Communication & Stakeholder Coordination: Strong ability to communicate technical concepts to project engineers, environmental specialists, contractors, regulatory partners, and other stakeholders.
- Environmental Policy Application & Project Support: Proven skill in applying environmental policy and technical guidance to support project design, permitting, construction, and emergency response activities.
- Staff Leadership, Mentorship & Quality Control: Ability to provide mentorship, quality control, and technical direction to staff performing hazardous materials work.
- Regulatory Agency Coordination & Compliance: Experience coordinating with regulatory agencies on cleanup requirements, reporting, and compliance expectations.
- Project & Workload Management: Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, prioritize workload, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced transportation project environment.
- Environmental Data Systems & Technical Tools: Proficiency with environmental data systems, GIS, and other technical tools used for site evaluation and documentation.
- Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
- Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.
In addition to the above, the following are also required:
- A valid driver’s license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles.
- Ability to report to WSDOT Shoreline office within three (3) hours from home office.
- 40-hour HAZWOPER certification (current with refresher) or acquire within three (3) months of hire.
- Washington Registered Site Assessor certification (current with refresher) or acquire within six (6) months of hire.
- AHERA Building Inspector certification (current with refresher) or acquire within three (3) months of hire.
- Respirator and fit testing within six (6) months of hire.
- First aid/Cardiopulmonary resuscitation certification or acquire within twelve (12) months of hire.
It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:
- Environmental Compliance & Procedures: Working knowledge of environmental procedures and workflows for transportation or large infrastructure projects, including coordination with internal subject matter experts, construction offices, and maintenance. Experience applying NEPA and SEPA requirements to hazardous materials review, documentation, and project decision-making.
- Hazardous Materials Review for Transportation Projects: Experience conducting hazardous materials reviews for transportation projects, including linear infrastructure and multimodal facilities.
Important Notes
This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
The salary listed includes the legislative approved 5% salary premium for positions in King County.
To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the “Contact Us” section of this posting.
In addition to base salary, employees may be entitled to other forms of compensation depending on the type, duties, or location of the position. For union-represented positions, more information on other forms of compensation can be found in the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreements. Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in Chapter 357-28 of the Washington Administrative Code.
WSDOT 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.
This is a Transportation Planning Specialist 4 position. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at a lower level in the classification series based on candidate qualifications, providing an opportunity for an individual to gain the required experience on the job as part of a formal “in-training” plan. The base salaries for each level are:
- Transportation Planning Specialist 4: $84,520 – $113,639
- Transportation Planning Specialist 3: $76,545 – $102,967
Why WSDOT
Work-Life Balance – We are committed to ensure that our staff experience the reward of public service, while also sustaining a routine that suits each individuals’ lifestyle. As such, there are a number of flexible schedule options available, including telework options for eligible positions.
Paid Leave – In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees may earn up to 25 paid vacation days per year!
Tuition Assistance – Permanent employees have several options for assistance with education expenses, including tuition reimbursement programs, government discounts at participating colleges throughout the state, and eligibility for federal student loan forgiveness.
Plan For Your Future – WSDOT offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options. Employees also have a choice of state retirement programs, and much more. Go to State Benefits for more information.
Check out this video to learn more: Why WSDOT?
How to Apply
Applications for this recruitment will be accepted electronically. Your relevant experience may be evaluated to determine salary. Therefore, it is very important that the “Work Experience” portion of the application be completed in as much detail as possible.
In order to be considered for this opportunity, please include the following with your online application:
- An attached Resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date.
- An attached Cover Letter that further explains your qualifications and indicates why you believe you are a viable candidate for this role.
- Contact details for a minimum of three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job-related competencies. This information can be entered in the “References” section of the online application; does not require an additional attachment.
Please click the "APPLY" button to proceed. Note that you will be prompted to either sign in or create an account. This step is required in order to submit an application to this opportunity.
WSDOT is an equal opportunity employer. We value the importance of creating an environment in which all employees can feel respected, included, and empowered to bring unique ideas to the agency. Our diversity and inclusion efforts include embracing different cultures, backgrounds and viewpoints while fostering growth and advancement in the workplace. All persons, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity, are encouraged to apply. Persons with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the recruiter listed.
Contact Us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at amanda.strebeck@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-NWR-12898-2 in the subject line.
Description
About WSDOT
The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal agency with a global reputation for excellence. Our dedicated workforce plans, designs, builds, and operates an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state. In addition to maintaining over 20,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT manages the world's longest floating bridge, leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, holds the record for the world’s widest tunneling project, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!
The Opportunity
WSDOT is currently seeking a Transportation Planning Specialist 4 (TPS4, In-Training) to join the Northwest Region (NWR) Environmental Program as our region Hazardous Materials Lead in protecting Washington’s environment and communities as part of operating and improving the state transportation system. The NWR Environmental team works closely with all transportation partners, users, and diverse communities to protect and improve the environment through its policy development, technical support and training, and leadership in sustainability and resiliency. This lead position supports the agency’s mission, strategic plan goal areas, and safety of the traveling public by serving as a regional leader in hazardous materials and solid waste.
The role applies best available science and professional judgment to conduct studies, prepare technical documentation, and ensure compliance with environmental regulations. This lead position supports compliance with federal and state environmental requirements, including the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA), Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA), Model Toxics Control Act (MTCA), and the Clean Water Act (CWA). Work includes preparing and overseeing hazardous materials technical reports, Phase I and Phase II Environmental Site Assessments, Sampling and Analysis Plans and other advanced transportation studies. The lead also coordinates with regional and headquarters staff on the development and implementation of statewide policies, as well as training and other program initiatives. The position is based in the NWR Dayton HQ office and is supervised by a regional Technical Services Supervisor, with additional technical support from the Headquarters (HQ) ESO Hazardous Materials Program.
What to Expect
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the NWR Hazardous Materials Lead will:
- Facilitate resolution of technical hazardous materials and solid waste management issues within the NWR.
- Effectively and proactively coordinate, independently or as a team member, HazMat program deliverables, and services with others in NWR and occasionally with HQ-ESO to develop effective solutions, maximize efficiency and expedite the environmental permitting and approval process.
- Maintain advanced knowledge of hazardous materials and solid waste management sciences and resources and utilize advanced techniques in decision making.
- Perform project field reviews to ensure appropriate techniques are being used to handle hazardous materials and waste.
- Manage and direct work of hazardous materials for staff, consultants, and contractors when required; develop or review consultant scopes of work, budgets, and sampling and analysis plans.
- In collaboration with HQ HazMat Program and other regions, implement training programs to establish and maintain needed level of hazardous materials and solid waste management related competence in construction.
Qualifications
This is a Transportation Planning Specialist 4 position. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at a lower level in the classification series based on candidate qualifications, providing an opportunity for an individual to gain the required experience on the job as part of a formal “in-training” plan.
- Hazardous Materials Regulatory Expertise: Advanced knowledge of hazardous materials regulations, characterization methods, and cleanup strategies, including federal, state, and local environmental requirements.
- Environmental Data Analysis & Interpretation: Expert-level ability to interpret and analyze complex environmental data, including soil, groundwater, air, and material sampling results.
- Technical Reporting & Documentation: Advanced proficiency in developing, reviewing, and approving technical reports, including Environmental Site Assessments, Phase I and Phase II hazardous materials surveys, remediation plans, and contractor submittals.
- Hazardous Materials Investigations & Field Oversight: Advanced experience leading or overseeing hazardous materials investigations, including scoping, field oversight, data evaluation, and coordination with multidisciplinary teams and contractors.
- Contaminant Fate, Transport & Risk Assessment: Comprehensive understanding of contaminant fate and transport, risk pathways, and conditions requiring mitigation or removal before and during construction or maintenance activities.
- Technical Communication & Stakeholder Coordination: Strong ability to communicate technical concepts to project engineers, environmental specialists, contractors, regulatory partners, and other stakeholders.
- Environmental Policy Application & Project Support: Proven skill in applying environmental policy and technical guidance to support project design, permitting, construction, and emergency response activities.
- Staff Leadership, Mentorship & Quality Control: Ability to provide mentorship, quality control, and technical direction to staff performing hazardous materials work.
- Regulatory Agency Coordination & Compliance: Experience coordinating with regulatory agencies on cleanup requirements, reporting, and compliance expectations.
- Project & Workload Management: Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, prioritize workload, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced transportation project environment.
- Environmental Data Systems & Technical Tools: Proficiency with environmental data systems, GIS, and other technical tools used for site evaluation and documentation.
- Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
- Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.
In addition to the above, the following are also required:
- A valid driver’s license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles.
- Ability to report to WSDOT Shoreline office within three (3) hours from home office.
- 40-hour HAZWOPER certification (current with refresher) or acquire within three (3) months of hire.
- Washington Registered Site Assessor certification (current with refresher) or acquire within six (6) months of hire.
- AHERA Building Inspector certification (current with refresher) or acquire within three (3) months of hire.
- Respirator and fit testing within six (6) months of hire.
- First aid/Cardiopulmonary resuscitation certification or acquire within twelve (12) months of hire.
It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:
- Environmental Compliance & Procedures: Working knowledge of environmental procedures and workflows for transportation or large infrastructure projects, including coordination with internal subject matter experts, construction offices, and maintenance. Experience applying NEPA and SEPA requirements to hazardous materials review, documentation, and project decision-making.
- Hazardous Materials Review for Transportation Projects: Experience conducting hazardous materials reviews for transportation projects, including linear infrastructure and multimodal facilities.
Important Notes
This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
The salary listed includes the legislative approved 5% salary premium for positions in King County.
To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the “Contact Us” section of this posting.
In addition to base salary, employees may be entitled to other forms of compensation depending on the type, duties, or location of the position. For union-represented positions, more information on other forms of compensation can be found in the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreements. Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in Chapter 357-28 of the Washington Administrative Code.
WSDOT 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.
This is a Transportation Planning Specialist 4 position. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at a lower level in the classification series based on candidate qualifications, providing an opportunity for an individual to gain the required experience on the job as part of a formal “in-training” plan. The base salaries for each level are:
- Transportation Planning Specialist 4: $84,520 – $113,639
- Transportation Planning Specialist 3: $76,545 – $102,967
Why WSDOT
Work-Life Balance – We are committed to ensure that our staff experience the reward of public service, while also sustaining a routine that suits each individuals’ lifestyle. As such, there are a number of flexible schedule options available, including telework options for eligible positions.
Paid Leave – In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees may earn up to 25 paid vacation days per year!
Tuition Assistance – Permanent employees have several options for assistance with education expenses, including tuition reimbursement programs, government discounts at participating colleges throughout the state, and eligibility for federal student loan forgiveness.
Plan For Your Future – WSDOT offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options. Employees also have a choice of state retirement programs, and much more. Go to State Benefits for more information.
Check out this video to learn more: Why WSDOT?
How to Apply
Applications for this recruitment will be accepted electronically. Your relevant experience may be evaluated to determine salary. Therefore, it is very important that the “Work Experience” portion of the application be completed in as much detail as possible.
In order to be considered for this opportunity, please include the following with your online application:
- An attached Resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date.
- An attached Cover Letter that further explains your qualifications and indicates why you believe you are a viable candidate for this role.
- Contact details for a minimum of three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job-related competencies. This information can be entered in the “References” section of the online application; does not require an additional attachment.
Please click the "APPLY" button to proceed. Note that you will be prompted to either sign in or create an account. This step is required in order to submit an application to this opportunity.
WSDOT is an equal opportunity employer. We value the importance of creating an environment in which all employees can feel respected, included, and empowered to bring unique ideas to the agency. Our diversity and inclusion efforts include embracing different cultures, backgrounds and viewpoints while fostering growth and advancement in the workplace. All persons, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity, are encouraged to apply. Persons with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the recruiter listed.
Contact Us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at amanda.strebeck@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-NWR-12898-2 in the subject line.
Environmental Job Roles in Washington
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Search Environmental Jobs in WashingtonEnvironmental Jobs in Washington: Frequently Asked Questions
Which companies sponsor visas for environmental roles in Washington?
Tetra Tech, WSP, AECOM, and Ecology and Environment are among the consulting firms with established H-1B visa sponsorship histories in Washington. Federal agencies including the EPA Region 10 office in Seattle and the Army Corps of Engineers also hire environmental professionals with visa sponsorship. Washington's tribal nations and utilities like Puget Sound Energy round out the major sponsoring employer categories for environmental roles.
Which visa types are most common for environmental roles in Washington?
The H-1B is the most common visa for environmental scientists and engineers in Washington, covering specialty occupations that require a relevant bachelor's degree or higher. Environmental roles in hydrology, geotechnical engineering, and environmental science typically qualify. Candidates with Canadian or Mexican citizenship may use the TN visa under the USMCA for specific qualifying occupations. Those with extraordinary recognition in their field may qualify for the O-1 visa.
Which cities in Washington have the most environmental sponsorship jobs?
Seattle and its eastern suburbs, particularly Bellevue and Redmond, account for the largest share of environmental sponsorship jobs in Washington, driven by consulting firm offices and proximity to state regulatory agencies. Olympia, as the state capital, concentrates government and regulatory environmental positions. Tacoma and Spokane also have active environmental hiring tied to remediation projects and regional utilities.
How to find environmental visa sponsorship jobs in Washington?
Migrate Mate filters job listings specifically by visa sponsorship availability, making it straightforward to identify environmental roles in Washington where employers are actively open to sponsoring. You can search by job category and state to surface positions in environmental science, engineering, and consulting. Given Washington's active remediation, clean energy, and water resource sectors, new sponsored roles appear regularly on the platform.
Are there state-specific factors that affect environmental visa sponsorship in Washington?
Washington's Department of Ecology and the Puget Sound Partnership generate significant demand for environmental specialists, particularly in water quality, wetlands, and climate resilience, which can strengthen the case for specialty occupation classification under H-1B petitions. Washington's prevailing wage requirements align with federal LCA standards, and the state's active university pipeline through the University of Washington and Washington State University supplies candidates familiar with local regulatory requirements.
What is the prevailing wage for sponsored environmental jobs in Washington?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.