Natural Areas Steward, Agricultural Research Technologist 2 (ART2)

Full Job Description

Work Hours and Partial Telework flexibility may be available and considered
Salary: $3477.00 - $4299.00 Monthly

Want to join something GREAT and make a difference?
The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has an exciting opportunity within our Southeast Region as a Natural Areas Steward. As a Natural Areas Steward, you will work as a part of DNR’s Natural Areas Program. This program manages the conservation and restoration of both Natural Area Preserves and Natural Resource Conservation Areas. These lands represent the finest natural, undisturbed ecosystems in state ownership, often protecting rare or vulnerable plant and animal species. The Natural Areas Steward will keep habitats and ecosystems healthy through science-based management and restoration. They will also strengthen public appreciation of nature by promoting environmental education, exploration, and scientific research on natural areas. This is an incredible opportunity for someone passionate about ecological conservation and preservation.

Requirements

Responsibilities:

• Implement invasive species control through chemical, mechanical, and other methods
• Assist in restoration planning
• Implement restoration activities, including seed collection, plug planting, and thinning
• Assist in monitoring rare plants and vegetation communities
• Construct and maintain site infrastructure, including fencing and signage
• Use GPS and GIS apps to record restoration activities and map plant occurrences
• Work independently in remote areas in inclement weather conditions

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• Associate’s degree with a major in Botany, Plant Ecology, Restoration Ecology, or a closely related field;
  OR an equivalent combination of education and/or experience.
• Experience with invasive species identification and control, including the application of herbicides.
• Experience in plant identification that includes the ability to use a dichotomous key (preferably Hitchcock & Cronquist’s ‘Flora of the Pacific Northwest’).
• Knowledge of how to conduct rare plant surveys and apply effective plant monitoring techniques.
• Experience using GPS or GPS-enabled devices and familiarity with computer spreadsheets and database programs.
• Accustomed to working independently in remote locations.
• Knowledge of ecological principles, particularly of the ecosystems in eastern Washington.
• Knowledge of ecological field data collection techniques, including rare plant surveys and vegetation community monitoring.
• Commitment to fostering and supporting an environment that honors diversity, equity, inclusion, and environmental justice practices.
• Perform assigned duties in a manner consistent with applicable laws, regulations, and public records retention and requests are followed.
• DNR Core Competencies:
  • Personal Accountability
  • Value Others
  • Compassionate Communication
  • Inspire Others
  • Commitment to Excellence

Special Requirements and Conditions of Employment:

Position’s assigned duty station is Ellensburg. Work performed (up to 85%) in the field with some travel to remote locations throughout eastern Washington.

Field visits require the physical ability to work alone in undeveloped, remote, forested, or back-country landscapes and terrains and the ability to traverse uneven terrain.

The ability to mix and apply herbicides without supervision is required.

Travel throughout eastern Washington is required. Overnight trips may be required multiple times a month.

A current, valid driver’s license and two years of driving experience.

Additionally, DNR requires state drivers to possess a license that is not suspended, revoked, or restricted (for example, Occupational/Restricted Driver Licenses or requiring ignition interlock devices).

This position requires driving as an essential function.

Finalists and/or interview candidates will be asked to provide a driving record from all states in which they have held a license during the past three years.

Have a valid Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) Pesticide License.

Desired Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree with a major in botany, plant ecology, restoration ecology, or a closely related field.
• Floristic knowledge specific to Eastern Washington.
• Experience with forest thinning treatments, including forest plots, layout, and/or implementation.
• Experience with infrastructure maintenance, including fencing and sign installation and repair, and the use of power tools.
• Experience with GIS-based computer applications.

Don’t let doubts stop you from applying for this position. At DNR, we value diversity and inclusion in our organization, and we are looking for the best person for the job. We are invested in acquiring the best and most innovative candidate for the job, and that candidate may be one from a less traditional background. It is important you consider and clearly communicate within your application materials how your education, volunteer work, life skills, and experience transfer to this position and the qualifications. If you have any questions about the qualifications, please contact us at DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov. Don’t hesitate to apply!

Additional Information

Application Requirements: Failure to provide the listed documents may result in disqualification. If you have questions or difficulty attaching these documents, please contact DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov.

• Apply online: at www.careers.wa.gov (Click on the APPLY button above).
• Letter of interest: describing your specific qualifications for the position and the position required, desired, and special requirements.
• Resume: that details your experience and qualifications.
• References: References are optional at the time your application is submitted. Finalists will be asked to provide a list of at least 3 professional references with current telephone numbers, including your current or most recent supervisor.
• Important: Do not attach any documents that include photos or private information (Social Security number, year of birth, etc.).
• Complete all supplemental questions.
• Candidates who move forward in the recruitment process may be contacted via email at info@governmentjobs.com with interview information/scheduling instructions. Please monitor the email listed in your application materials and check your junk email folder to ensure you receive those communications.

Questions? Please contact Kimberly Quayle at Kimberly.quayle@dnr.wa.gov / (509) 856-5505 or email us at DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov.

Persons needing accommodation in the application/testing process or this job announcement in an alternative format may call (360) 522-2500 or email DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384.

About the Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
At DNR, we approach our work through the lens of making Washington a better place environmentally and are dedicated to serving Washington’s lands and communities through diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Our Vision – Our actions ensure a future where Washington’s lands, waters, and communities thrive.
Our Mission – Manage, sustain, and protect the health and productivity of Washington’s lands and waters to meet the needs of present and future generations.
Our Core Values:

• Safety and Well-Being —Our top priority is the safety of the public and our employees.
• Public Service —We value and respect the public we serve, and we value and respect the people of the Department of Natural Resources who step up to serve.
• Innovation and Creative Problem-Solving — We solve our state’s most pressing challenges through innovative thinking, dedication, and bold and creative vision.
• Leadership and Teamwork —We are committed to building leaders at all levels and building teams for success.

DNR provides excellent benefits, a few of which include:

• Commitment to organizational health and wellness
• Work/life balance
• DNR Employee Resource Groups (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Council, Women’s Employee Resource Group, Veterans Employee Resource Group, etc.)
• Statewide Employee Business Resource Groups, visit here to learn more
• Leadership that empowers and supports employees
• Professional development opportunities
• Educational and career development aid
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness Eligibility
• Opportunities to participate in wildland fire suppression assignments
• A comprehensive benefits package includes employer contributions toward health insurance, paid holidays, retirement plans, sick leave, and vacation days. Visit http://careers.wa.gov/benefits.html for more information.

Additional Information:
This recruitment may be extended and used to fill future similar vacancies for up to sixty (60) days.

DNR does not use the E-Verify system. For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov.

Veterans wishing to claim Veteran’s preference, please attach a copy of your DD-214, NGB-22, or other verification of military service. Please black out your Social Security number before attaching it. We thank you and are grateful for your service!

Equal Opportunity Employer: The Washington State Department of Natural Resources is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation, and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons with disability, persons over 40 years of age, veterans, military spouses or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply.

Once you submit your online application, you can check your status by logging into your account. If you experience technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application, call 360-664-1960 or 1-877-664-1960 or email CareersHelp@des.wa.gov.

Check us out on: DNR’s website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube | WordPress