Forest Practices Permit Specialist, Natural Resource Specialist 1 (NRS1)

Salary: $3,811.00 - $5,117.00 Monthly

Want to join something GREAT and make a difference?
Do you have a passion for environmental protection and public service? Do you want to be a part of ensuring Washington continues to be a place that has a sustainable future with fish, wildlife, clean water, and a viable timber industry? The Olympic Region is looking for an enthusiastic person with a demonstrated ability to organize, prioritize, and work within tight schedules and timelines to join our Forest Practices team in Forks, WA. 

The Forest Practices Permit Specialist (NRS1) position supports the DNR’s mission through the Department’s role in implementing the Forest Practices Act on private, state, and local government forestlands. This position works collaboratively with diverse group of landowners, foresters, consultants, geologists, local government entities, tribes, biologists, and other professionals to protect our natural resources. 

Working under general supervision, this position makes decisions and performs duties independently by applying guidelines established by WACs, RCWs, Forest Practices Habitat Conservation Plan, and forest practices policies and procedures. This position evaluates Forest Practices applications and uses professional judgement and knowledge to analyze and classify applications. Additionally, the Permit Specialist provides technical support and consultation to forest landowners, agencies, local government entities, and the public regarding understanding and interpreting forest practices rules.Responsibilities:

• Evaluate and classify Forest Practices Applications (including aerial chemical spray and hydraulic projects) and associated documents fore completeness and consistency.
• Educate and provide technical assistance to landowners regarding forest practices rules.
• Respond to and resolve general complaints and requests for information.
• Prepare and process notifications and enforcement documents accurately and withing mandated timeframes.
• Manage records and public disclosure requests.
• Participate in Staff meetings, Timber Fish and Wildlife (TFW) meetings, trainings, and region or program-wide meetings.
• Implements procedural changes as directed by the Forest Practices Coordinator, Forest Practices District Manager, or Forest Regulation Division. 
• May participation in Wildfire Program in a voluntary capacity. 

Required Qualifications: 

• Associate degree in natural resource management, business administration or related field;
  AND two (2) years of progressively responsible experience in office/clerical administrative work with a strong emphasis in customer service:
  OR a combination of education and/or experience.
• Advanced knowledge in the use of software applications such as Microsoft Word, Excel, SharePoint and Adobe products.
• Demonstrated ability to organize, prioritize, and work within tight schedules and timelines with attention to detail.
• Strong oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills, including demonstrated ability to clearly articulate information to a variety of audiences.
• Excellent customer service 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

Special Requirements and Conditions of Employment:

• The primary work environment is in an office setting with the possibility for extended periods of sitting or standing. There is occasional time outdoors with field foresters or other staff in rugged settings. Assigned duty station is the Olympic Region Headquarters Office in Forks, WA
• Position requires occasional travel to meetings. 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.

Desired Qualifications:

• Knowledge of Forest Practice Act and associated rules, and relationships to other environmental laws, policies, procedures, and agency practices.
• One (1) or more years of experience using ArcGIS or similar mapping tools including reading and interpreting legal descriptions, topography, and aerial photos.
• Experience in interpreting and explaining complex rules and laws.
• Experience with working in a team environment.
• Knowledge and proficiency with Department of Natural Resources programs, operations, and software including: FPARS, FPETS, WTA, FPRAM, and NaturE.

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: (Failure to provide 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: 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 Krista Pagel at Krista.Pagel@dnr.wa.gov / 360-640-9185 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.

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Salary : $45,732 - $61,404