Salary : $72,924.00 - $98,040.00 Annually
Location : Thurston County - Olympia, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 2025-1-A309-00135
Department: Dept. of Natural Resources
Opening Date: 01/07/2025
Closing Date: 2/6/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
Salary Information: The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step
DescriptionForest Resilience Policy and Planning Manager, Environmental Specialist 5
Recruitment #2025-1-A309
Full-time, Permanent, Represented position
Location: Natural Resources Building - Olympia, WAWork Hours and Partial Telework flexibility may be available and consideredRelocation Compensation may be available and considered
Salary: $6,077.00 - $8,170.00 MonthlyReview of applications is ongoing. We reserve the right to make a hiring decision or close this recruitment at any time after 01/23/2025. Interviews will be conducted the week of January 27th, with an expected start date of Feb 16th. 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 Forest Resilience Division for professionals interested in natural resources policy. This position focuses on those who have background, expertise, or a strong interest in forest health - the condition of a forest ecosystem reflecting its ability to sustain characteristic structure, function, and processes; resilience to fire, insects, and other disturbance mechanisms; adaptability to changing climate and increased drought stress; and capacity to provide ecosystem services to meet landowner objectives and human needs.
This policy position focuses on forest health-related activities and policy issues that we are facing across all lands that work to restore and sustain the ecological function of the entire landscape such as solutions to conserve, protect, and enhance forests that people and wildlife depend on; forest restoration and wildfire risk reduction; mitigation treatments; opportunities that guide current and future management actions; promote wildlife habitat; monitor insect and disease; educate citizens and decision-makers about the economic, environmental, psychological and aesthetic benefits of trees; and other critical components as we maneuver through our forested ecosystem.
The work of the
Forest Resilience Policy and Planning Manager is guided by the Forest Action Plan, 20-Year Forest Health Strategic Plan, and Shared Stewardship Memorandum of Understanding uses sound judgment as well as background and knowledge of relevant laws, regulations, policies, programs, and procedures is responsible for both proactively identifying and developing internal policy needs as well as responding to existing and emergent policy where decisions will impact our division and it's ten programs operational effectiveness on a strategic level.
This position works closely with not only our division's management team but other Division's that coordinate closely on the delivery of our shared goals, particularly Forest Resources and Wildland Fire Management Division, as well as regional staff and numerous collaborators, other state and federal agencies, tribes, and private forest landowners on our execution of RCW 76.06 and 76.15. This position is responsible for providing leadership and execution on both internal and external policy, and strategic plans, and helping to facilitate a culture of strong cross-programmatic information exchange, awareness, and collaboration towards shared goals.
Duties Responsibilities:- Recommends and implements policies and procedures directed at effective and fiscally responsible investments in to implement RCW 76.06 and 76.15 as well as our Forest Action Plan and 20-Year Forest Health Strategic Plan. May solicit and manage professional contract services.
- Ensures interpretation, documentation, and implementation of policy related to the successful implementation of the Division's programs of work are consistent with existing laws, rules, policies, and Department principles. Identifies and leads coordination of areas where potential conflicts may occur and require attention.
- Leads Division coordinated review, analysis, and response to forest health state and federal forest health-related legislation.
- Assumes lead status for the preparation of plans, reports, documents, and other informational material. This includes leadership of coordination and delivery of required legislative reports.
- Fosters and sustains positive relationships contributing to the overall resilience of Washington's forested ecosystems and landscapes in a changing environment.
- Serves as the lead in managing and coordinating legal services requests; involving researching the issue requiring legal support, drafting the legal services request forms to include questions requiring legal analysis and responses, tracking the issue to ensure responses are received within the necessary timeframe, providing briefings to staff management, and ensuring that all communication is handled professionally and consistently.
- Supports new rulemaking efforts, as related to forest health and resiliency programs of work.
- Serves on and represents DNR on interagency committees.
- Responds to public, legislative, and other information requests.
Qualifications Required Qualifications: - A Bachelor's degree in forestry, forest management, forest ecology, natural resources, environmental policy, or related field;
AND at least four years or more of applied experience and knowledge of natural resource management, policy, regulations, principles, and practices;
OR an equivalent combination of education and/or experience. - Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including substantial public speaking experience, to convey complex natural resource issues to technical and non-technical audiences.
- Experience participating with and leading multi-collaborative natural resource groups and understanding of how to effectively communicate and represent both science and agency policy to external partners.
- Leadership experience and collaboration skills including the ability to listen, understand, facilitate, negotiate, and work skillfully in those settings to support a wide array of interests and objectives.
- Experience working with diverse and competing interest groups to develop solutions and resolve conflicts around high-profile projects or issues.
- Knowledge of major forest health and forest management policy in the Pacific Northwest and Washington State at multiple scales from regional to state to local across land ownerships.
- Knowledge of major forest health issues in the Pacific Northwest and management strategies to address those.
- Ability to develop policy and procedures for teams to achieve an objective.
- Familiarity with US Forest Service State and Private Forestry programs, authorities, and typical areas of work. Degree and experience provide the knowledge necessary to provide expert consultation and lead a dynamic statewide portfolio of urban forestry work.
- Strong organizational skills, including administrative and data management skills.
- Ability to lead internal and external working groups as needed to further agency projects and initiatives.
- Ability to function largely independently, making sound decisions in a complex, diverse operating environment.
- Strong project management 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:- Most work is performed indoors in office environments but may occasionally include other settings.
- Infrequent travel is expected for meetings and consultations provided to partners around the state, away from the position's main duty station. Such travel may be multiple days in length and require overnight stays. Additional opportunities to travel may include attendance at meetings, conferences, and other activities within and outside of the state.
Desired Qualifications:- Ability to convey messages correctly, clearly, and persuasively using effective written, verbal, and public speaking skills to a variety of audiences.
- Ability to understand complex planning and policy issues and apply understanding to accomplish agency goals and objectives.
- Understanding and experience effectively communicating and representing both science and agency policy to external partners.
- Highly inspirational and engaging with other natural resource professionals - the ability to mobilize people and to find synergy in work.
- Visionary and adaptable to changing organizational and natural environments - the ability to identify/anticipate future needs to increase successful outcomes for our state forests
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 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!
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 and email- 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 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 Lislie Sayers at / (360) 280-6104 or e-mail us at
Persons needing accommodation in the application/testing process or this job announcement in an alternative format may call (360) 522-2500 or email Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through the 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,
- 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 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
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 NEOGOV toll-free at (855) 524-5627 or email
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More than Just a Paycheck!Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Read about our benefits:The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance BenefitsEmployees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.
The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.
Retirement and Deferred CompensationState Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Social SecurityAll state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Public Service Loan ForgivenessIf you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Holidays Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.
Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.
Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.
Sick Leave Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.
Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
Vacation (Annual Leave)Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.
Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.
Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
As provided in , an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.
Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for
exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.
Military LeaveWashington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.
Bereavement Leave Most employees whose family member or household member dies, are entitled to three (3) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.
Additional LeaveLeave Sharing
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 12-31-2022
01
Please describe what interests you about the Department of Natural Resources.
02
Please describe what a work environment based on diversity, equity, inclusivity and belonging means to you.
03
Do you have a Bachelor's degree in forestry, forest management, forest ecology, natural resources, environmental policy, or related field;AND at least four years or more of applied experience and knowledge of natural resource management, policy, regulations, principles, and practices;OR an equivalent combination of education and/or experience?
04
Please describe your involvement with interpreting state and federal policy and laws. If you do not have this experience type N/A.
05
Please describe your knowledge of major forest health and forest management policy in the Pacific Northwest and WA state at multiple scales from regional to state to local across land ownerships. If you do not have this experience type N/A.
06
Do you have excellent verbal and written communication skills, including substantial public speaking experience, to convey complex natural resource issues to technical and non-technical audiences?
07
Do you have experience participating with and leading multi-collaborative natural resource groups and understanding of how to effectively communicate and represent both science and agency policy to external partners?
08
Please describe how you have interacted with interagency committees. If you do not have this experience type N/A.
09
Do you have leadership experience and collaboration skills including the ability to listen, understand, facilitate, negotiate, and work skillfully in those settings to support a wide array of interests and objectives?
10
Do you have experience working with diverse and competing interest groups to develop solutions and resolve conflicts around high-profile projects or issues?
11
Please describe how you go about prioritizing work plans and accomplishing tasks and deliverables. If you do not have this experience type N/A.
12
Tell us about your involvement with the WA state legislative process(es). If you do not have this experience type N/A.
13
Tell us why you are the best person for the job.
14
Do you now, or will you in the future, require sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g., H-1B visa status, etc.) to work legally for our agency in the United States? DNR is not an E-Verify agency.
15
Where did you originally hear about this job posting?
- www.dnr.wa.gov
- www.careers.wa.gov
- WA WorkSource office or WorkSourceWA.com
- Governmentjobs.com
- Monster
- Indeed
- LinkedIn
- Twitter
- College/university website/career fair
- Handshake
- Newspaper
- Direct Email Notification
- Statewide Employee Business Resource Groups (BRG)
- Professional/Personal Network
- Job Board
- Job Fair
- Zip Recruiter
- Diversity Jobs
- Facebook
- Other (please specify below)
16
If you answered "other" to the previous question, please specify where you originally learned of this employment opportunity in the space below.
Required Question
