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Posted: April 2, 2026 (1 day ago)

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Silviculture Research and Monitoring Technician, Scientific Technician 2

State of Washington

Dept. of Natural Resources

Fresh

Location

Washington, 98504

Salary

$3,477 - $4,632

per month

Closes

April 10, 2026

Job Description

Summary

This job involves working outdoors to monitor forest health, check on tree planting success, and support research on sustainable forestry practices for the state.

You'll collect data in remote areas using tools like tablets and GPS, while ensuring activities follow environmental rules.

It's ideal for someone who enjoys nature, team fieldwork, and handling scientific data without needing advanced degrees.

Key Requirements

  • High school diploma or GED, plus one year of high school science and two years of lab or field experience (or equivalent education/experience)
  • Knowledge of environmental sampling and data gathering techniques
  • Experience with data entry and management
  • Ability to work independently or in small teams in remote outdoor settings
  • Proficiency in using field equipment like GPS, tablets, calipers, and laser range finders
  • Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and environmental justice
  • Skills in recording and quality-checking data, both on paper and electronically

Full Job Description


Working Title

Silviculture Research and Monitoring Technician, Scientific Technician 2
Recruitment #2026-4-8555
Full-time, Non-permanent, Represented position (WPEA)
Anticipated Non-permanent employment is May 2026-June2027
Location: Natural Resources Building- Olympia, WA
Work Hours and Partial Telework flexibility may be available and considered
Salary: $3,477.00 - $4,632.00 Monthly


Want to join something GREAT and make a difference?
The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has an exciting opportunity within our Forest Resources Division as a Silviculture Research and Monitoring Technician, Scientific Technician 2.

Are you someone who loves the outdoors and is passionate about sustainable forest management? If you love working in the outdoors, appreciate a remote natural environment, enjoy generating and working with scientific data, and have a proven ability for working as part of a small team, then this is the job for you.

The DNR Silviculture Section is seeking a Scientific Technician 2 to support work in three important areas: 1) monitoring the implementation of DNR’s Habitat Conversation Plan, 2) monitoring the implementation and success of silvicultural activities on DNR lands, and 3) conducting silvicultural research. You will be responsible for conducting a wide variety of tasks such as installing research studies, conducting seedling establishment surveys, reviewing timber sale documentation, among other tasks. You will also be part of a team of silviculture scientist working to support the management of healthy, productive forests for current and future generations through stewardship, science, and technology.

Requirements

Responsibilities:
  • Works both independently and (or) as part of a team to conduct field reviews of forest management activities for compliance with agency policies and procedures.
  • Implements field protocols for sampling the survival of planted seedlings throughout the state using the DNR Data Recorder application, a tablet, and a measurement tape.
  • Gathers forest measurement data such as tree diameter, tree height, species identification, tree density, and understory vegetation data.
  • Assists with the installation of research studies in the field. Activities include marking plot corners, marking seedling locations, and planting seedlings.
  • Operates and maintains field instruments and equipment such as height poles, calipers, tablets, laser range finders, and GPS units.
  • Works with the regional staff on logistics for ongoing fieldwork.
  • Records data using both paper datasheets and electronic resources (handheld tables and GPS).
  • Conducts data entry and quality control of collected data.
  • Updates the HCP Checklist database by reviewing timber sale documentation.
  • Reports to the supervisor verbally and in writing regarding field work and data management.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:
  • Graduation from high school or GED, including one year of high school science AND two years of laboratory or field experience;
    OR equivalent combination of education and/or experience.
  • Knowledge of environmental sampling and data gathering.
  • Experience in data entry and management.
Required Competencies:
  • 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:

Works both independently and as part of a team primarily in the field and occasionally in the office.80% Field sites throughout the state of Washington.

Drives a vehicle on unimproved roads and navigates unmarked road systems, navigates and hikes rugged terrain, and copes with a variety of weather conditions.

Assigned work may take place across all 6 DNR regions.20% Office environment. Office work will include data entry, data quality control, updating databases, and reviewing timber sale documentation.

  • Frequent overnight travel may be required.
  • 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:
    • Associate’s degree or higher in environmental science, ecology, biology, forestry, or related field.
    • Experience working in harsh outdoor conditions and navigating unmarked road systems.
    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 Maxwell Wightman at maxwell.wightman@dnr.wa.gov/564-669-0669 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

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    Posted on NEOGOV: 4/2/2026 | Added to FreshGovJobs: 4/3/2026

    Source: NEOGOV | ID: neogov-washington-5294431