Forest Practices Forester, Natural Resource Specialist 3 (NRS3)

Review of applications is ongoing. We reserve the right to make a hiring decision or close this recruitment at any time after 3/27/25. 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. Are you interested in a career serving with a great team of professionals that help protect our natural resources in  one of the most beautiful parts of Washington State?  The Northeast Region of DNR is recruiting for an enthusiastic natural resource professional, with a positive attitude to join our team as one of our Forest Practices Field Foresters. 

This position will be based out of Deer Park, WA and will be responsible to cover both Spokane County and parts of Lincoln County.  The Forest Practices Program implements the “Forest Practices Act,” and “Timber/Fish/Wildlife” agreement. The goals of both the act and agreement are to protect natural resources such as water quality and fish and wildlife habitat while simultaneously maintaining a viable forest products industry.  

This position will be responsible to enforce forest practices rules in collaboration with other state agencies and Indian Tribes.   The successful applicant will be someone who has knowledge of Washington State Forest Practices Rules and activities including timber harvest; who will also possess effective communication and facilitation skills.Responsibilities:
This position is responsible for evaluating harvest proposals, stream crossing structures and protecting Washington’s public resources.  This is accomplished by possessing a working knowledge of the Washington State Forest Practice Rules and evaluating and approving/disapproving proposed Forest Practice applications.  Forest Practice Forester’s also facilitate Interdisciplinary teams of natural resource professionals when evaluating proposals.  

Review and Approve, Condition or Deny Forest Practices Applications/Notifications (FPA/N’s)

• Forest Practices Foresters (FPFs) Independently review FPA/N’s for completeness, and determine whether they can be accepted for review, based on established parameters. They independently solicit input from Timber, Fish, and Wildlife (TFW) cooperators, agency experts, and in some cases, the public. This includes facilitating TFW interdisciplinary (ID) teams in evaluating FPA/N’s and water type modification forms (WTMF) when needed.  In this role, foresters devise the methods and process they use for incorporating this input and resolving conflicts between competing interests. In some cases, they use their discretion to condition applications to resolve conflicts and ensure compliance with the forest practices rules.
• FPFs verify Forest Practice Hydraulic Projects (FPHPs) meet the fish protection standards. FPFs also verify Class IV Special triggers including unstable slopes and threatened and endangered species habitat. They also provide initial recommendation for the SEPA determination. FPFs facilitate the Alternate Plan ID Team process and are responsible for making the final decision of a proposal meeting the threshold of “at least equal in overall effectiveness” as provided by the act and rules.

Compliance of Forest Practices Activities

• FPFs independently conduct compliance on FPA/N’s and unpermitted violations of the forest practices rules. They have the authority and responsibility to take initial-level enforcement actions (i.e. – Stop Work Orders, Notices to Comply, and Notices of Conversion to Non-Forest Use) at their discretion, based on their knowledge of the forest practices rules and broad, region-level guidance.
• FPFs use their professional discretion to review and approve  these mitigation plans based on input from TFW cooperators (some of whom have advanced subject matter expertise,) agency experts with advanced subject matter expertise, their research of similar past violations, and their own professional knowledge of the forest ecosystem.
• FPF’s respond to public complaints and/or concerns in a timely manner.  

Rule Interpretation, Pre-Application Reviews

• FPFs provide information and consultation services regarding interpretations of the forest practices rules to forest landowners, other agencies, and the general public. FPFs will conduct pre-application site reviews or facilitate interdisciplinary TFW teams to educate potential applicants on interpretations of forest practices rules or jurisdictional requirements.

Required Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s degree in forestry or similar Natural Resources degree AND one year related experience;
  OR a combination of education and experience equivalent.
• Working knowledge of the Washington State Forest Practice Rules.
• Ability to:
  • Communicate effectively both orally and in writing
  • Provide outstanding customer service
  • Work effectively as part of a team
  • Use computer skills involving managing office data and corresponding to multiple customers including staff, landowners, agencies, and Tribes.
• 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:

• Position’s assigned duty station is the Deer Park Work Center. The Large majority (70%) of field work is performed in isolated, unimproved natural areas. Incumbent must be able to traverse steep, uneven terrain in all weather conditions. Approximately 30% of the work is performed in a typical office setting.
• Position requires a large majority (60%) of time in the field traveling alone between forest practice sites. Some overnight stays may be required. The employee is eligible for per diem and lodging costs when in travel status, except when provided by the agency.
• 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:

• Two to three years of professional experience in a related natural resource specialty area.

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, and 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: 3-5 professional references with current telephone numbers; to include your 2 most recent supervisors. 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 Eric Keller at 509-481-7064/eric.keller@dnr.wa.gov or e-mail 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 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.

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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Salary : $58,380 - $78,468