Watershed Inspector en City of Seattle
City of Seattle · Cedar Falls, Estados Unidos De América · Onsite
- Professional
- Oficina en Cedar Falls
About the Department
Enjoy being out in the woods?
Seattle Public Utilities is seeking a Watershed Inspector to protect the pristine Cedar River and South Fork Tolt Watersheds. In this position, every day can vary. While on patrol you may need to enforce regulations, be called to suppress wildfires, respond to a hazmat spill, troubleshoot a malfunctioning lock, or respond to a visitor complaint in the public recreation area.
You will be based at Cedar Falls Headquarters (34 miles east of Seattle near North Bend) adjacent to Rattlesnake recreational area.
About Seattle Public Utilities: Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is a Community Centered Utility whose mission is to foster healthy people, environment, and economy by partnering with our community to equitably manage water and waste resources for today and future generations. We deliver high quality, vital services, across four major lines of business: providing water, solid waste, drainage and wastewater services for Seattle residents and businesses. SPU provides drinking water for 1.5 million regional customers in Seattle and other municipalities. Our customers depend on us to deliver high quality, reliable, and cost-conscious utility services and to achieve the highest benefits possible for every investment we make.
For more information about Seattle Public Utilities (SPU), please visit:
SPU commits to Our City Values and Race and Social Justice as core principles that guide our work. We actively take steps to dismantle systemic racism and increase service equity. We value diverse life experiences and strive to create a workplace that is welcoming to all. We take steps to be inclusive and equitable in our recruiting, hiring and promotional opportunities.
environment that supports a work life balance, including:
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
Why join us? We know work isn’t only about what you do, it’s also about who you work for and with! SPU provides a fun and family-friendly work environment that supports a work life balance, including:
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
Position Duties
Field Operations
Patrol work sites, roads, fenceline, and watershed facilities to identify threats to water quality and public safety.
Enforce City access regulations by addressing unauthorized entries and reporting violations.*Special Police commissions will be required soon(2026/27) in an unarmed capacity.
Educate visitors on recreation area rules to encourage compliance and protect the environment.
Provide first response to all incidents and emergencies.
Collect and monitor surface water related data, including snow measurements in the winter requiring helicopter transportation.
Provide wildfire detection, reporting, and initial attack as a Wildland Firefighter 2.
Investigations & Reporting
Conduct investigations involving evidence collection, photography, interviews, and documentation.
Produce clear, detailed incident case reports to support enforcement and decision-making.
Equipment & Security
Willingness to learn, operate and monitor security systems, including CCTV, electronic gates, and facility controls.
Use technology and several applications to manage workflow and accountability.
Please note this job posting is not designed to cover or contain the complete listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change as conditions require
Minimum Qualifications
Education/Experience:
One (1) year of college education in forestry, law enforcement, natural resource management, fire science, 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 and one year of supervisory or lead worker experience
OR
A combination of education and/or training which provides an equivalent background required to perform the work of the class.
License, Certification and Other Requirements:
Valid Washington State driver’s license
Ability to pass a criminal background check
Advanced First Aid, including Professional Rescuer CPR and AED; Operations-level Swiftwater Rescue, Technical Rope Rescue, and Hazardous Materials Hazwopper certifications (within two years of appointment)
National Wildland Firefighting Incident Qualification Card for Firefighter 2 at the arduous level (within one year of appointment)
Successful completion of NRCS Snow School, AAIRE, WA Boaters card, S-212 Chainsaws, and Emergency Vehicle Operator with State Patrol to operate wildland fire apparatus
Waterworks Operator certification may be required
Eligibility to receive a limited commission as a peace officer from the local authority having jurisdiction
Work Environment/Physical Demands:
Works outdoors independently in all weather conditions with hiking off trail four or more miles while navigating steep, unstable terrain alone.
Physical demands include digging post holes, and lifting over 50 pounds
Must work flexible shifts including weekends and evenings
Handles potentially toxic/hazardous chemicals including chlorine and glycol
Must complete the annual NWCG arduous fitness requirement for Firefighter 2
Desired Qualifications
Ability to work independently while maintaining clear communication
Law enforcement training or experience in rural or backcountry settings with limited support
First responder background in search and rescue, technical rescue, avalanche travel, or EMS
Wildfire experience as a NWCG Firefighter 2
Proficiency with technology for documentation and reporting
Experience managing or patrolling high-traffic recreation areas
Special Conditions
Required to wear a provided uniform while on duty (boot allowance available after probation per labor agreements)
Typical schedule of 4×10-hour days with variation to support year-round watershed operations
Overtime or standby duty may be required during emergencies
Operation of 4x4 vehicles, boats, bicycles, fire apparatus, and occasional helicopter transport required
Reliable transportation to the workplace is necessary due to challenging winter road conditions
Other Qualifications
Who may apply: The City of Seattle encourages people of all backgrounds to apply, including people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ, people with disabilities, veterans, and those with diverse life experience. This position is open to all qualified candidates that meet the minimum qualifications. The City of Seattle values diverse perspectives and life experiences. Applicants will be considered regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, marital status, disability, religious or political affiliation, age, sexual orientation, or gender identity.
The full salary range for this position is: $39.66 - $46.12 per hour.
How to apply: An online application including response to the supplemental questionnaire must be fully completed for consideration. Please DO NOT attach resumes and cover letters, as they will not be considered in the review of candidate's qualifications.
Candidates selected to move forward will be required to complete and pass a Work Capacity Test (Pack Test) on an annual basis, which currently involves hiking 3 miles on level terrain while carrying a 45-pound pack in 45 minutes or less.
Pre-Employment/Pre-Placement Requirements:
As a part of the application process a complete Washington State Drivers abstract will be required for the most competitive applicants. Please do not provide until requested.
This hiring process involves a background check of conviction and arrest records in compliance with Seattle’s Fair Chance Employment Ordinance, SME 14.17. Applicants will be provided with an opportunity to explain or correct background information.
SPU’s safety program requires a pre-employment medical assessment as a condition of employment in this position
Benefits: 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.
More information about employee benefits is available on the City's website at:
