Seattle Public Utilities ยท 8 hours ago
Senior Watershed Inspector
Seattle Public Utilities is seeking a Senior Watershed Inspector to protect the pristine Cedar River and South Fork Tolt Watersheds. The role involves leading daily watershed protection activities, enforcing regulations, conducting security patrols, and responding to emergencies including search and rescue operations.
Government Administration
Responsibilities
Perform strategic patrols to monitor work sites, roads, fences, gates, and watershed facilities for potential threats to water quality
Enforce City access and control regulations by addressing unauthorized personnel on restricted lands and reporting violations to appropriate authorities
Educate and inform visitors about recreation area rules and regulations to promote compliance and environmental protection
As a Special Police Officer enforce ordinance infraction-based violations in an unarmed capacity (this is a future level of enforcement requirement in the next 2-3 years)
Lead and schedule Watershed Inspectors for daily tasks and assignments
Create detailed, factual case reports documenting incidents and observations with precision and thoroughness
Conduct comprehensive investigations including evidence collection, scene photography, witness interviews, and detailed documentation
Execute complex investigations and produce detailed incident reports to support decision-making processes
Research, evaluate, and procure specialized equipment to support watershed protection operations
Become proficient in security systems including closed-circuit television (CCTV) monitoring, electronic gate operations, and facility security
Qualification
Required
One (1) year of college education in forestry, law enforcement, natural resource management, fire science or watershed protection or a related field or one year of experience in a field related to forestry, natural resource management, fire science, or watershed protection or related field
One (1) year of supervisory or lead worker experience
Current Washington State driver's license
Must pass a criminal background check
Advanced First Aid Certifications which includes Professional Rescuer CPR and AED; Operations Level for Swiftwater Rescue, Technical Rope Rescue and Hazardous Material Response (within two years of appointment)
National Wildland Firefighting Incident Qualification Card (within one year of appointment)
Waterworks Operator certification may be required
Eligible to receive a limited commission as a peace officer from the local authority having jurisdiction
Works outdoors independently in all weather conditions with daily walking exceeds four miles while navigating steep, unstable terrain alone
Physical demands include digging post holes, hiking off trail, mixing concrete, carrying wildfire equipment, and generally lifting over 50 pounds
Must work flexible shifts including weekends and evenings
May encounter confrontational individuals such as trespassers or poachers, creating potentially dangerous situations
Handles potentially toxic/hazardous chemicals including chlorine and glycol
Preferred
Previous wildfire suppression experience and Natural Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) Certifications documented in Incident Qualification System (IQS) State or ICQS Incident Certified Qualification System (ICQS) Federal at the Squad Boss and Incident Commander Type 5 level
Previous law enforcement training and/or experience in rural/backcountry settings with limited backup and communications
Self-motivated with ability to work independently with minimal supervision while maintaining thorough communication
Proficiency using various technological applications and devices to document daily activities
Experience working or patrolling high-traffic recreation areas
First responder experience in search and rescue, technical rescue, avalanche travel, and EMS
Benefits
Family-friendly and multicultural work environment
Generous benefits package
Free public transportation options
City pension plan with employer/employee contributions
Growth potential and advancement opportunities
The City of Seattle offers a comprehensive benefits package including vacation, holiday, and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance for employees and their dependents.
Company
Seattle Public Utilities
We foster healthy people, the environment, and the economy by partnering with our community to equitably manage water and waste resources for today and future generations.