Product Stewardship and Plastics Specialist (Environmental Specialist 5)
State of Washington
Posted: February 3, 2026 (2 days ago)
This job was posted recently. Fresh listings typically have less competition.
Pierce County
Planning and Public Works
Location
Tacoma, Washington, 98409
Salary
$103,906.08 - $133,517.65
per year
Type
Full Time
More Planning & Development jobs →Closes
This job involves leading a team to protect and manage Pierce County's natural resources, such as forests, fish habitats, and farmland, while implementing plans to conserve 100,000 acres of land by 2044 and running a program that funds conservation efforts.
You'll work with various groups to tackle issues like climate change, housing, and community health, shaping policies that guide the county's growth.
It's ideal for someone passionate about the environment who enjoys supervising teams, analyzing data, and engaging with the public to create positive changes.

This position will be able to request a hybrid telework schedule with the expectation of being in the office if needed. Flexibility is our goal, and you will be able to work with your supervisor to determine your in-person schedule.
Why It's a Great Opportunity:
Planning and Public Works (PPW) has an exciting opportunity at the supervisory level in our Sustainability Division.
The Office of Resilience and Climate Action oversees the County's Sustainability, Natural Resources, and Environmental Education efforts.
You will have the opportunity to lead the implementation of the Land Conservation Plan, which calls for conserving 100,000 acres of land by 2044.
You will supervise members of the Stewardship Team who work on forest, fish, and agriculture policy issues for the County. You will also run the Conservation Futures program for the County.
The Office of Resilience and Climate Action is committed to implementing the Sustainability 2030 Plan to make Pierce County a more equitable and healthier place to live.
If you have a passion for sustainability and natural resources and are ready to supervise a team focused on conservation projects, then this is the job for you!
Why It's a Great Department:
Planning and Public Works (PPW) stewards a healthy and vibrant community by collaboratively planning and investing in our people, infrastructure, systems, and policies.
PPW’s team has more than 800 members that collaborate, innovate and inspire in performing essential services to the community.
The department is responsible for the County road and levee systems, sewer systems, airports, ferries, building permits, environmental review, sustainability, community planning, and code enforcement - just to name a few!
Learn more about Planning and Public Works at www.piercecountywa.gov/ppw.
How to be Successful in the Role:
The position requires you to work across Department divisions, County departments, agencies, and stakeholders to address topics such as growth management, affordable housing, environmental impacts, land conservation, climate change, social and health needs, and much more.
Ideally, we want a candidate who is skilled in data collection and analysis as well as public outreach and facilitation.
Throughout the training process, you will meet with your supervisor regularly to discuss expectations and set goals for yourself as well as introduce you to the current policies and procedures, technology/software, and Pierce County Code.
Pierce County offers professional development throughout your career to ensure your success.
Your Future in this Role:
You will have an opportunity to work alongside a diverse and talented team of PPW professionals, agencies, and community leaders to support planning activities by problem-solving and developing innovative solutions to ensure the best services possible for the citizens of Pierce County.
Your work will directly shape how Pierce County communities grow by developing foundational guiding policy documents that guide County programs and plans over time.
Core Daily Responsibilities:
A classification description with a more detailed list of essential functions can be found here.
Preferred Qualifications:
Special Requirements/Qualifications:
As a condition of employment, the applicant will need to authorize and complete a background check. Information received from the background check is reviewed case-by-case and will not necessarily remove an applicant from consideration.
To be considered for this opportunity please:
This is a competitive selection process. Your application will be reviewed and evaluated for the quality and quantity of education/experience in the areas listed.
Applicants whose qualifications most closely correspond to the County's needs will be eligible for further consideration.
Notification of application status normally occurs 2 to 3 weeks after the closing date.
Short notice may be given to applicants to participate in further selection processes which may include assessments, phone screen, and interviews.
At Pierce County, diversity, equity, and inclusion means commitment, not a single step.
We strive to foster an inclusive environment that supports equitable access to opportunities throughout your career.
We want to recruit, develop, and maintain a talented workforce from various backgrounds, cultures, lifestyles, and perspectives, committed to our vision.
Employees of the County have local, direct, and visible impact in our diverse community. Will you join us in keeping Pierce County place people are proud to call home?
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