Are you passionate about protecting the environment and making a real impact in your community? The Port of Anacortes is looking for a driven, detail-oriented Environmental Specialist to champion regulatory compliance and lead key sustainability initiatives. In this vital role, you'll focus on three core areas: project permitting, environmental compliance, and implementing forward-thinking environmental programs.

If you thrive in a fast-paced setting where your critical thinking, independence, and problem-solving skills shine - this could be the perfect fit. You'll be the Port's trusted liaison to regulatory agencies, helping to shape projects that align with both environmental standards and community values.

Sound like your kind of challenge? Keep reading - we'd love to tell you more.

We offer more than just a competitive salary of $79,326–$91,961 per year. Our benefits package is exceptional - including comprehensive family medical, dental, and vision coverage for under $9/month, plus a Port-funded Health Savings Account. You'll also enjoy a generous state retirement plan, a $75 monthly wellness stipend, and ample paid time off to support a healthy work-life balance.

About the Port of Anacortes

We're a government entity that runs like a business. We develop and manage facilities and services that stimulate private job creation and commerce that make our community a better place to live and work. We work hard to achieve our mission while having fun with our Port team, always encouraging a healthy work-life balance. It's a culture that everyone wants to be a part of! We believe that loving where you work matters, and we aim to provide a career that offers family-wage compensation and benefits with opportunities for professional growth. Come join our team!

A Day in the Life

No two days are the same - and that's exactly how you like it. As the Environmental Specialist, you thrive in a role that blends structure with spontaneity. One moment, you're deep in the details of a federal permit application; the next, you're hopping into a UTV to inspect the airfield for wildlife hazards. You're the Port's go-to expert for all things environmental, and you wear that badge with pride.

You're the key liaison between the Port and regulatory agencies, navigating local, state, and federal permitting processes with confidence and clarity. Working closely with Port Project Managers, you prepare, submit, and manage permit applications, ensuring every "i" is dotted and every "t" is crossed. You lead the charge on SEPA analysis and project reviews, often coordinating with consultants to keep things moving smoothly.

Your work is essential in keeping the Port compliant with stormwater and clean air regulations. You maintain meticulous records, oversee consultant fieldwork, and review technical reports with a sharp eye. Whether it's managing emergency spill kits or tracking safety incidents, you're also the Environmental, Health, and Safety point person - always ready to respond and follow through.

But it's not all behind-the-scenes. You love the outreach side of your role, too. You help bring the Port's sustainability goals to life through programs like Envirostars Clean Marina and Green Marine Terminal. You collaborate with staff, track budgets, and even step into the spotlight to deliver presentations to the Port Commission and the public - sharing the story of the Port's environmental leadership.

Every day brings new challenges, new connections, and new opportunities to make a difference. And that's exactly why you love being the Environmental Specialist.

What You Bring to the Team

Here's what we're looking for in our next Environmental Specialist:

Education & Experience: Bachelor's degree in a related field plus at least 1 year of experience in environmental science or a related field - or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Core Competencies: A collaborative mindset, intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, attention to detail, self-motivation, and strong public engagement skills.
Technical Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Teams, SharePoint). Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present complex information clearly. Ability to read, synthesize, and summarize technical and regulatory materials.
Knowledge Base: Familiarity with environmental laws, codes, and permitting requirements relevant to marine, industrial, commercial, and aviation sectors.
Certifications & Licenses: Valid driver's license and ability to obtain a TWIC card.
Physical Requirements: Ability to perform essential physical tasks, including walking up to three miles, lifting up to 20 pounds, and working in varied outdoor conditions.
Work Environment: Comfortable working both indoors and outdoors, with appropriate safety gear provided.

We know every person brings more than just qualifications! Will you bring energy, adaptability, and a passion for environmental stewardship? Are you someone who can navigate complex regulations and communicate clearly with a wide range of stakeholders? Do you enjoy balancing fieldwork with strategic planning? Can you confidently review technical reports, coordinate with consultants, and present environmental initiatives to the public? Are you detail-oriented but also able to see the big picture? Do you take pride in being a thoughtful, solutions-focused professional who contributes to a mission-driven team?

If you're nodding "yes," we'd love to learn more about you!

Your Amazing Port Benefits

Health & Wellness: Medical, dental, vision, disability, life insurance, HSA (Port-funded), gym/exercise stipend, employee assistance program
Time Off & Flexibility: Paid holidays (11 set + 2 floating), vacation leave, sick leave, flexible schedules, exchange time (salaried), compensatory time (hourly)
Retirement & Financial:403(b) pension, 401(a) deferred comp, COLAs
Recognition & Growth: Employee awards, professional development opportunities, clothing allowance, tuition assistance

Your Work Schedule

You'll be based at the Port's main office, located at 317 Commercial Avenue in Anacortes. Our core business hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with some flexibility depending on project needs and fieldwork.

Ready to Make an Impact?

If you're looking for a role where your work truly matters - and where you're supported by a collaborative, mission-driven team - we'd love to hear from you. Our application is quick, mobile-friendly, and designed to get to know the real you. Don't wait - apply today!

Location: 98221

Following an offer of employment, the candidate must be able to pass a background check, and motor vehicle records check. Any job offer will be contingent on the results of these screenings.

Port of Anacortes jobs

Environmental Specialist