Natural Resource Police Officer (NRPO)

Full Job Description

Work Hour flexibility may be available and considered
Relocation Compensation may be available and considered
Salary: $5,666.00 - $7,622.00 Monthly

Review of applications is ongoing. We reserve the right to make a hiring decision or close this recruitment at any time after 3/5/26. It is in your best interest to submit materials as soon as possible.

Want to join something GREAT and make a difference?
The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has an exciting opportunity within our Northeast Region as a Natural Resource Police Officer (NRPO).

Natural Resource Police Officers are armed, uniformed police officers sworn to enforce the laws of the State of Washington and the Constitution of the United States on all lands protected by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources. Natural Resource Police Officers are committed to protecting public safety, state assets, and the environment. Natural Resource Police Officers are assigned to geographical areas with the purpose of investigating, identifying, and initiating prosecution of those individuals who commit crimes on state-protected lands. Natural Resource Police Officers often work alone in remote areas where they have to independently determine the best course of action to effectively resolve a situation. This position reports directly to the Natural Resources Police Sergeant.

Requirements

Responsibilities:

• Identifies and prioritizes areas that experience indiscriminate use in order to identify violators and/or deter such acts.
• Provides proactive patrols, issues citations and infractions utilizing various methods, such as the use of assigned patrol vehicles and/or off-road vehicles to access areas of remote or limited access.

Completes reports, collects and preserves evidence, creates and executes search warrants, and testifies in criminal and civil courts.

Attend administrative hearings and collaborate with local, county, state, and federal enforcement agencies in areas of joint jurisdiction or as needed in special cases.

• Conducts complex criminal and civil investigations on lands protected by the Department of Natural Resources, such as theft of specialized forest products on state lands.
• Coordinates enforcement patrols with regional personnel to address special events or identified issues.
• Assist wildfire investigators with the enforcement of Forest Protection laws when requested.
• Maintains cross-agency commission with local, county, state, and federal agencies.
• Works with assigned region staff to provide oversight on signage that enhances compliance and enforcement.
• Works with assigned region staff to identify problem areas and recommend solutions to gain compliance with agency rules and regulations.
• Initiates or participates in public outreach and education activities.
• Works with the Department of Natural Resources Communications and Outreach section to address specific issues through the use of social media outlets.
• Completes monthly reports.
• Maintains and updates computer-aided dispatch logs.
• Provides the required care, upkeep, and maintenance of assigned equipment, including but not limited to 4x4 patrol vehicle, firearms, all-terrain off-road vehicles, chainsaws, radios, and other assigned equipment.
• Conducts annual inspections of assigned equipment, including documenting tracked equipment on required forms.
• Attends regional meetings if requested.
• Completes other duties as assigned by supervisor.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• Successful completion of the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission (CJTC) Basic Law Enforcement Academy per RCW 43.101.200;
  OR Basic Law Enforcement Equivalency Academy (BLEEA) per WAC 139.05.210;
  OR A Washington CJTC-recognized basic law enforcement certificate from another state.
• Four years’ experience as a fully commissioned police officer, deputy sheriff, or state trooper.
• Excellent verbal, non-verbal, and written communication skills.
• 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:

• Must successfully pass a complete background investigation before hire to include an in-depth interview, polygraph, psychological evaluation, and pre-employment drug screening (urinalysis).
• Must Reside within Okanogan, Lincoln, Ferry, or Stevens County.

This position works in an outdoor environment to enforce natural resources and criminal laws.

Patrols are conducted on land and water and take place at all hours of the day and in all weather conditions.

In most cases, the position works alone and in remote areas with limited backup resources available.

• Must be willing to travel long distances and be away from home for extended periods as needed.

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.

Desired Qualifications:
• Lead investigator or detective experience.
• Associate or bachelor’s degree in natural resource science, criminal justice, or related field from an accredited institution.
• Forest Management experience.
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 Deputy Chief Tom Martin at Thomas.Martin@dnr.wa.gov/360-561-7569 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 disabilities, 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.

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