State Lands Lead Forester, Natural Resource Specialist 2 (Nrs2)/Nrs1 In-Training

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

Recruitment #2024-4-7212

Full-time, Permanent, Represented position

Location: Olympic Region- Forks, WA

Relocation Compensation may be available and considered

Salary: $3,700.00 - $5,615.00 Monthly

CLOSING DATE EXTENDED! Review of applications is ongoing. We reserve the right to make a hiring decision or close this recruitment at any time after 4/23/24. 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. We are seeking a Forester (Natural Resource Specialist 1 in training or Natural Resource Specialist 2) to manage, sustain, and protect the health and productivity of Washington's lands and waters to meet the needs of present and future generations. 

Are you someone who is looking for a rewarding career in the outdoors? Do you want the opportunity to serve the citizens of Washington? If you love working in a remote forest environment, value public service, possess practical forestry skills, and have a proven ability to work as an integral part of a small team, look no further.

Responsibilities:

This position serves as a lead forester working with a team of foresters under the supervision of the Unit Coordinator. This position works independently part of the time but has regular interaction with foresters, civil engineers, other natural resource professionals as well as other agency/organization members and the general public. This position has split responsibilities within the Presales program between timber sales layout and compliance.  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 presales documentation packets, containing maps, informational reports, and environmental documents. The position will also serve as a contract administrator for DNR timber sales and road plan contracts.  The position also must respond to public and other agency requests relative to state lands management within the district.

• Develop and implement all timber sales assigned from a 5-year harvest schedule to achieve assigned harvest levels within an assigned geographical area in the Coast district.

• Contract Administrator on timber sales ensuring all contract requirements and payments are met. Ensure harvest activities are compliant with the HCP, Forest Practice rules, and all other policies and laws.

• Road/Infrastructure Monitoring of all forest roads and transportation system structures within the unit and recommend routine and emergency maintenance.

• Support other foresters within the District by covering Contract Administration and Timber Sales Layout duties during fire program-related absences. Voluntarily, may participate in the wildland fire program.

• Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to work center facility maintenance, vehicle maintenance, providing training to others outside the unit, preparing and leading tours and meeting with interest groups, and functioning as acting Unit Coordinator when delegated.

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 (NRS2 In-Training) or Natural Resource Specialist 2, depending on qualifications.

Required Qualifications:

Natural Resource Specialist 1 (NRS2 In-Training)  

(Salary range: $3,700 - $4,968 per month):

• Knowledge of all laws, policies, and practices related to timber sales programs.

• 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. 

• DNR Core Competencies:

• Personal Accountability

• Value Others

• Compassionate Communication

• Inspire Others

• Commitment to Excellence

Natural Resource Specialist 2  

(Salary range: $4,174-$5,615 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.

• Well-developed written and verbal communication skills

• Facilitation and negotiation skills.

• Demonstrated 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.

Special Requirements and Conditions of Employment:

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

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

• A valid unrestricted driver's license and have two years of driving experience. 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.

Don't let doubts stop you from applying for this position

• If you have any questions about the required qualifications or how your past experience relates to them, please contact us at DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov. A note to potential candidates: Studies have shown that women, trans, non-binary, Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) are less likely to apply for jobs unless they feel they meet every qualification as described in a job description. We value diversity and inclusion in our organization, and we are looking for the best person for the job. Don't hesitate to apply! Application Requirements:

• Apply online: at www.careers.wa.gov (Click on the APPLY button above).

• Letter of interest: describing your specific qualifications to the position and position required, desired, and special requirements.

• Resume: that details your experience and qualifications.

• References: at least three professional references with current telephone numbers- you may attach a document, use the References text field in the online application, or include it with your resume.

• 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 Erik Camacho-Roldan at Erik.camacho-Roldan@dnr.wa.gov/ (360)640-9165 or e-mail us at DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov

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 that 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 may also be 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 prior to 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 of 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. 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.

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 NEOGOV toll-free at (855) 524-5627 or email CareersHelp@des.wa.gov.

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