Salary : $58,380.00 - $78,468.00 Annually
Location : Spokane County - Other, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number: 2024-11-3074-12930
Department: Dept. of Natural Resources
Opening Date: 11/14/2024
Closing Date: 12/1/2024 11:59 PM Pacific
Salary Information: The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step
DescriptionState Lands Unit Forester, Natural Resource Specialist 3 (NRS3)Recruitment #2024-11-3074
Full-time, Permanent, Represented position
Location: Northeast Region- Deer Park, WAWork Hour flexibility may be available and considered Salary: $4,865.00 - $6,539.00Review of applications is ongoing. We reserve the right to make a hiring decision or close this recruitment at any time after 11/21/24. 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 Northeast Region. Are you someone who loves the outdoors, and is passionate about becoming a natural resource forester working for Washington State? If you love working in the outdoors, appreciate a remote natural environment, enjoy working with a professional staff and have good practical forestry skills with a proven ability for working as part of a team, then this is the job for you.
The Northeast Region of the Washington Department of Natural Resources is looking to add a new employee to our team. The State Lands Unit Forester (Natural Resources Specialist 3) will be located out of our Deer Park Work Center, performing professional level forest management, planning and supervision under the direction of the East Uplands District Manager. This position will work independently as well as have regular interaction with Foresters, Forest Engineers, Natural Resource Professionals as well as other agency representatives, business partners and the general public.
The Unit Forester we are looking for will be someone who is a proven team player, has good written and verbal communication and a strong background in Forestry.
Duties Responsibilities:The State Lands Unit Forester works on a multitude of timber sale activities and works closely with the district silviculture forester. As the State Lands Unit Forester, you can expect to:
- Planning
- Act as the project manager for the development and maintenance of a dynamic 5-year forest management plan for timber harvest and silviculture activities in the unit. This plan complies with all applicable policies, procedures, and laws.
- In coordinating with various specialists, programs and other entities, the unit forester will receive assessments, recommendations and inputs that can be used to draft, finalize and alter the forest management plan
- Coordinate Timber Sale Design and Layout
- Working with a variety of staff members from Right-of-Way, Cultural Resources, Recreation, Forest Practices and other programs as needed.
- Contract Harvest/Contract Compliance
- Timber Sale Compliance
- Prescribed Fire Planning
- Unit Management
- Directs unit staff in conducting contract administration of harvest and other forest product sales. This includes, but is not limited to, forest road construction and felling and yarding operations, and resource protection. May conduct compliance on complex sales. Provides contract language interpretation guidance.
- Ensures necessary documents for billings, inspection reports, road construction compliance, and other associated documents adhere to contract specifications. Grants necessary approval as required by the contract.
- Analyzes proposed contract changes and make recommendations to District Manager. Recommends and takes corrective
- Supervision
- Collaborations and Outreach
Qualifications Required Qualifications: - A bachelor's degree in forestry or a closely related natural resource field; AND two years' experience in forestry or a closely related natural resource field;
OR a combination of education and/or relevant experience equivalent. - Experience with Forest Management objectives, Timber Management planning, Forest Practices rules, forestry laws and practices of similar natural resource regulatory experience.
- Experience with logging and forest road construction equipment.
- 6 months supervisory or lead worker experience.
- Working 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).
- Ability to effectively communicate using written and verbal communication.
- Understanding of the use of prescribed fire for silvicultural purposes and fuels reduction
- 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 Arcadia Work Center. This a field forester position with approximately 50% of the work performed outdoors, alone, and in remote areas. The ability to perform arduous work while traversing steep, rugged terrain under a full spectrum of environmental conditions is necessary. Approximately 50% of the work involved is performed in a typical office setting.
- Position requires occasional travel outside of the district for temporary assignments, meetings, training sessions, and fire assignments. 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 vehicle will be used when specific tasks or efficiency dictates.
- 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:- A master's degree in forestry or a closely related natural resource field;
OR a combination of education and relevant experience equivalent. - Prescribed fire qualifications - Prescribed Fire RxB 2 or 3, Incident Commander Type 4.
- Current knowledge of forest management plans and associated agency policies and rules.
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, 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!
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 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 Andrew Stenbeck at /509-995-7961 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 or a closely related natural resource field; AND two years' experience in forestry or a closely related natural resource field?OR a combination of education and/or relevant experience equivalent?
04
Do you have experience with Forest Management objectives, Timber Management planning, Forest Practices rules, forestry laws and practices of similar natural resource regulatory experience?
05
Do you have experience with logging and forest road construction equipment?
06
Do you have 6 months supervisory or lead worker experience?
07
Do you have working 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)?
08
Do you have a valid unrestricted driver's license and at least two years of driving experience?
09
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.
10
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)
11
If you answered "other" to the previous question, please specify where you originally learned of this employment opportunity in the space below.
Required Question
