State Lands Forester, Natural Resource Specialist 2 (NRS2)/NRS1 In-training

Full Job Description

Relocation Compensation may be available and considered
Salary: $3,811.00 - $5,783.00 Monthly

Review of applications is ongoing. We reserve the right to make a hiring decision or close this recruitment at any time after 1/27/26. 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 Olympic Region as a State Lands Forester, Natural Resource Specialist 2 (NRS2)/NRS1 In-training.

This position works as a member of a team of foresters under the supervision of the Unit Coordinator. The incumbent works independently part of the time, but has regular interaction with foresters, forest engineers, other natural resource professionals as well as other agency/organization members and the general public. This position has split responsibilities between timber sale layout and timber sale contract administration. During timber sales layout this position is responsible for the field design of timber sale proposals including harvest unit design, initial road location, and selection of harvest methods. Work includes the completion of pre-sales documentation packets, containing maps, informational reports and environmental documents. While serving as a contract administrator for DNR timber sales and road plan contracts, this position ensures all contract requirements and payments are met and ensures harvest activities are compliant with the applicable policies and laws. The position also must respond to public and other agency requests relative to state lands management within the district.

Requirements

Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement all timber sales assigned from the harvest schedule.
• Analyze, evaluate, and identify habitat location, stream typing/location, potentially unstable slopes, transportation system needs, and harvest system requirements.
• Consult with appropriate professionals with expertise in wildlife, geology, hydrology, engineering, and cultural resources as needed.
• Perform duties of the contract administrator on timber sales ensuring all contract requirements and payments are met and all harvest activities are compliant with the applicable policies and laws.
• Monitor forest roads and transportation system structures within the assigned geographic unit and recommend routine and emergency maintenance.

Qualifications

This may be filled as an in-training position. This is designated as a 12-24 month training plan. If you complete all elements of the training steps in a shorter amount of time, we may waive the remainder of the time required. Candidates will be considered as Natural Resource Specialist 1 (In-Training) or Natural Resource Specialist 2 (NRS2), depending on qualifications.

Required Qualifications:
Natural Resource Specialist 1 (In-Training)
(Salary range: $3,811 - $5,117 per month):

• Knowledge of all laws, policies, and practices related to timber sales program.
• Knowledge of timber and land management planning and practices.
• Knowledge of timber sales contract preparation and administration.
• Knowledge of theory, policy, principles and practices of the forestry profession as applied to Northwestern United States (i.e., fundamentals of: silviculture of Northwest species, markets and economics, cruising methods, sales layout, logging methods, engineering, plant nutrition, propagation and weed control, reforestation and intensive forest practices, recreation, multiple use, inventory, water quality, watershed management and basic principles of fisheries management.).
• Written and verbal communication skills.
• Facilitation and negotiation 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

Natural Resource Specialist 2
(Salary range: $4,299 - $5,783 per month):

• One year of professional forestry experience.
• Experience with forest management objectives and timber management planning.
• Experience with current forest management plans and associated agency policies and rules.
• Experience with timber sales contract preparation and administration.
• Knowledge of theory, policy, principles and practices of the forestry profession as applied to Northwestern United States (i.e., fundamentals of: silviculture of Northwest species, markets and economics, cruising methods, sales layout, logging methods, engineering, plant nutrition, propagation and weed control, reforestation and intensive forest practices, recreation, multiple use, inventory, water quality, watershed management and basic principles of fisheries management.)
• Knowledge of current forest practices rules, forestry laws and practices.
• Knowledge of logging and forest road construction equipment and use.
• Written and verbal communication skills.
• Facilitation and negotiation skills.

Special Requirements and Conditions of Employment:

The position's assigned duty station is the Olympic Region office in Forks. This a field forester position with approximately 60% of the work performed outdoors, alone, and in remote areas.

The ability to perform arduous work while traversing steep, rugged terrain under a full spectrum of environmental conditions is necessary.

Approximately 30% of the work involved is performed in a typical office setting. The remaining 10% is operating a motor vehicle.

Travel outside the region for training sessions and wildland fire incidents is necessary, but not exceedingly different than the normal field and office settings described.

The employee is eligible for per diem and lodging costs when in travel status, except when provided. A commute will be required to reach most job sites and trainings.

The use of an assigned vehicle will be the primary mode of travel. However, the use of specialty vehicles and pool vehicles will be used when specific tasks or efficiency dictates.

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:

• Bachelor’s degree in Forest Management or related field.
• 2 years as a Pre Sales Natural Resource Specialist 1 in the Department of Natural Resources.
• Demonstrated competence in timber harvest planning, preparation, contract administration and Pacific Northwest silviculture.
• Familiarity with current software used in word processing, spreadsheets and forestry applications.
• Well-developed written and verbal communication skills.

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 transfers 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 Chance LeRoy at chance.leroy@dnr.wa.gov/360-640-4343or 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.

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