Recreation Forester, Natural Resource Specialist 2 (NRS2)

Description

Duties

Responsibilities:

• Project planning, management, and operations
  • This position will provide project management for trail and infrastructure development, improvement, and repair. This includes planning for field operations in developed recreation areas including, trail systems, trailheads, campgrounds, and infrastructure such as bridges, kiosks, and covered shelters.
• Trail Stewardship
  • Performs light maintenance and minor repairs on trails and at recreation facilities, including cleaning sites, facilities, and structures as needed when on-site, and updating informational signage at kiosks. Assist other team members on projects as needed or assigned throughout the Northeast Region.
  • Review hazard tree potential within the campgrounds and on trail systems, and have them removed as needed.
  • Assigned several tools and equipment including, but not limited to: chainsaws, generator, and various power tools. Routinely operates ATVs, trailers, mini excavators, tractors, and totters for various projects such as hauling rock for trail maintenance.
• Volunteer Coordination and Outreach
  • Develop and foster collaborative partnerships with diverse internal and external partners to find creative and innovative solutions. Represents the department’s interests when interacting with the public where there are sensitive, complex issues, including forest management activities. Acts as the department’s representative in reacting to constituent or business partner inquiries.
• Supervision
  • This position will be assigning work projects, and providing oversight of work being done by staff, correction crews, WCC, volunteers, and other assigned resources.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• An Associate’s degree in forest recreation management, forest management, or related natural resource field;
  AND one year of professional experience at the entry level,
  OR a combination of equivalent education and/or experience.
• Experience maintaining or building public recreational trails and facilities.
• Experience working collaboratively with volunteers, user groups, and the general public on natural resources-related recreation.
• Ability to work alone and in a team environment.
• Demonstrate regard for safety in all aspects of the working environment.
• Position requires demonstrated ability to:
  • Align services with agency business needs;
  • Provide outstanding support services to customers;
  • Work effectively in a team environment;
  • Remain flexible in a changing environment;
  • Maintain a positive and professional attitude;
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Demonstrates leadership in the maintenance and development of a safe and healthy work environment.
• Conveys clear, persuasive messages that are effective in influencing the thoughts and actions of others.
• Actively participates in efforts to build a cohesive and results-oriented team.
• Builds and maintains internal and external customer satisfaction.
• 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

• This position is primarily a field position, working approximately 85% in the field and 15% in the office. Individual must be able to traverse and drive in uneven rugged terrain under all weather conditions. Sustained vehicle operation for long periods (2-4 hours). Sustained outdoor work (4-6 hours) in adverse weather conditions. The position will require operating a four-wheel drive vehicle on highway and forest roads, as well as trail hiking, mountain biking, and riding ATVs on trails in moderate to difficult terrain.
• The position requires some traveling alone between work/field sites in the region. Travel and overnight stays are required for training. During some training assignments, lodging and meals may be provided in a camp and/or dormitory environment.
• 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.
• Before hiring, a background check including criminal record history will be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant’s suitability and competence to perform in the position. Currently, background checks are required to be completed at a minimum of every 5 years.
• Must be able to pass Basic Enforcement Training during the probationary period.
• Successful completion of ATV & UTV safety training.
• Successful completion of DNR Trailer towing training.

• A Bachelor’s Degree involving a major study in forest recreation management, natural resource, or related field AND two (2) years of professional field experience in forestry, resource or park management (state or federal), natural resources recreation management, or in a closely related natural resource field.
• Knowledge of: DNR and USFS trail design standards; maintenance standards and various maintenance activities associated with recreation facilities, including trails, trailheads, campgrounds, and day-use facilities; and methods and practices of construction activities.
• At least two years of experience supervising and evaluating employee or work crew performance.
• Knowledge of grants, processes, and procedures.
• Knowledge of contracts and contract management.
• Familiarity with Washington Department of Natural Resources public use and trust land management responsibilities and practices.
• ORV, equine, hiking, and mountain bike riding skills, as well as strong outdoor skills.
• Conflict resolution experience.
• Experience with education and enforcement in a natural resource program.
• Working with volunteers or experience as a volunteer.
• Advanced knowledge of software (PowerPoint, photo editing, Excel, Microsoft Project, and Word), including experience in the use of GIS and GPS technology and software.
• Knowledgeable of forest management activities, forest-based land-use law, recreation-use law, and practices; and the HCP.

Supplemental Information

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.

• 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.

• 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.