Service Forester, Natural Resource Specialist 2 (NRS2)

Service Forester, Natural Resource Specialist 2 (NRS2)

Salary

$54,204.00 - $72,900.00 Annually

Location

Spokane County - Other, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Non-Permanent

Job Number

2026-10-7410-08371

Department

Dept. of Natural Resources

Opening Date

10/08/2026

Closing Date

10/22/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

Salary Information

The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Description

Service Forester, Natural Resource Specialist 2 (NRS2)

Recruitment #2026-10-7410

Full-time, Non-permanent, Represented position (WPEA)

Anticipated Non-permanent end date is June 30, 2027

Location: Northeast Region - Deer Park, WA

Work Hour flexibility may be available and considered

Salary: $4,517.00 - $6,075.00 Monthly

Review of applications is ongoing. We reserve the right to make a hiring decision or close this recruitment at any time after 10/15/2026. 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) Northeast Region is looking to fill a Service Forester (NRS2) position based out of our Deer Park location, helping provide coverage in both Spokane and Stevens County. We are looking for an individual who is a proven team player, has experience in forestry, forest health, and fire suppression, and displays an effective form of leadership to deliver program goals to local landowners.

The local work unit is dominated by pine stands in desperate need of treatments to promote forest health, reduce fuel loading, and protect structures. Since 2020, hundreds of people have purchased open lands within the work unit in hopes of building their dream houses, and oftentimes these places are overrun with pine thickets and overcrowded forests in poor health. This position will help to support the private landowners in protecting their dream and the surrounding communities. Thousands of existing homes and properties are losing the battle every year trying to manage the forest that never stops growing. The Service Forester's decisions on timber and biomass management are very important and can certainly put a property on a better trajectory of good forest health, which is a cornerstone goal of the program.

The Service Forester position will report to the Sr. Service Forester (NRS3) and will require the ability to foster positive working relationships amongst the other Service Foresters in the county and region, while also interacting with the general public, contractors, fire districts, and other state, local, county, and federal agencies on a routine basis. This position will require the successful candidate to exercise their knowledge of forestry, forest health, fire behavior, structural protection, agreement negotiation, and communication skills. By performing these actions effectively, efficiently, and professionally, the Service Forester supports the DNR in fulfilling its mission of providing innovative leadership and expertise to ensure environmental protection, community safety, and a rich quality of life for current and future generations.

Duties

Responsibilities:

• Under the direction of the Senior Service Forester, provide on-site or remote professional guidance and technical expertise to forest landowners (and forest landowner service providers) regarding forest management and structure risk reduction.
• Assist with facilitating landowner participation in financial assistance programs and forest health or fuel reduction contracts.
• Collaborate with other agency partners to help customize a plan of action for the landowner.
• Serve as a technical and professional resource for educational programs.
• On assigned projects, design work units on the ground for the purpose of utilizing funds within the cost share program.
• Complete home risk assessments.
• Enter and provide documentation for all inquiries and services provided into the One Stop Shop Online Tracking Tool.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

You must meet all the Required Qualifications and Competencies to be considered for this position. There are multiple pathways to meet qualifications, such as education, volunteer work, life skills, and experience. Please clearly communicate in your application material that your skills align with the position and qualifications.

• Bachelor of Science in forestry, natural resources, or closely related field from an accredited program;

AND one year of field experience in forest management;

OR an equivalent combination of education, training, and professional experience that demonstrates the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

• Experience in general forest management activities such as forest road design and construction, timber management planning, silviculture techniques, reforestation methods, and timber harvest boundaries.
• Experience using forestry tools such as measuring and hand tools.
• Proficient with computers, Microsoft Office applications, and SharePoint.
• Experience with Geographic Information Systems (GIS), including ArcPro, ArcGIS Online, Survey123, Field Maps, or other mapping tools to document work and convey information to non-technical audiences.

Required Competencies:

• Takes initiative, exercises sound judgment, and completes assignments with minimal supervision.
• Prioritizes tasks, organizes workload to meet deadlines, and adjusts work plans as needed to maintain productivity and deliver results.
• Skills in oral and written communication to convey messages clearly and persuasively to diverse audiences.
• 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 ensure requests are followed.
• DNR Core Competencies:
• Personal Accountability
• Value Others
• Compassionate Communication
• Inspire Others
• Commitment to Excellence

Special Requirements and Conditions of Employment:

• Assigned duty station is the Deer Park work center. The majority of work is performed alone in the field in sometimes isolated unimproved areas and on forest or rangeland but may include office and classroom settings. The position requires walking over steep, uneven terrain in a variety of forest environments, year-round, statewide, in a variety of weather conditions.
• Occasional overnight statewide travel is required to provide services. Incumbent will be required to drive long distances in a variety of weather conditions, year-round.
• A current, valid driver's license and two years of driving experience. Additionally, DNR requires state drivers to possess a license that is not suspended, revoked, or restricted (for example, Occupational/Restricted Driver Licenses or requiring ignition interlock devices). 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:

These qualifications are not required. However, they can help you stand out as a candidate and should be highlighted in your application materials.

• Working knowledge of silviculture and forest management practices in the Pacific Northwest or similar environment.
• Experience teaching or providing group presentations.
• Experience working in a positive, responsive, cooperative, collaborative manner with the public and other professionals (both inter-organizational and interdisciplinary).
• Experience with government procurement rules, contracting, and administration.
• Experience providing technical assistance, education, and educational materials to non-professional audiences, especially forest landowners.
• Current knowledge of Forest Practices rules; Forest Practices Board Manual guidance; and DNR Forest Practices policies, procedures, and practices.
• Previous experience working with small forest landowners.
• Certified Tree Farm Inspector certification.
• Public Pest Consultant certification.

At DNR, we value diversity and inclusion and are committed to hiring the best candidate for the job. Don't let doubts stop you from applying for this position. If you have any questions about the qualifications, please email us at DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov.

Supplemental Information

Application Requirements: Failure to provide the listed documents may result in disqualification. If you have questions or difficulty attaching these documents, please contact DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov.

• Online Application: Apply at www.careers.wa.gov (Click on the APPLY button above). You must complete the entire online application to be considered for the position.
• Cover Letter: Your cover letter should be tailored to this job posting. Be sure to highlight your qualifications for this role, directly address the requirements of the position, and explain why you're the best candidate for the job.
• Resume: Your resume should consist of your work history, education, volunteer work, life skills, experience, and any other relevant information associated with the position.
• References: References are optional at the time your application is submitted. Finalists will be asked to provide a list of at least three (3) professional references, to include a current or most recent supervisor, along with telephone numbers.
• Complete All Supplemental Questions: Answers to these questions will be used to evaluate candidates. Please provide comprehensive answers to all questions requiring a text response.
• Important: Do not attach any documents that include photos or private information (Social Security Number, year of birth, etc.).
• Email Communication: 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 these communications.

Questions? Please contact Braden Britt at Braden.Britt@dnr.wa.gov / (509) 995-7969 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 Values:

• Integrity-Staff who work at the Department of Natural Resources are principled and consistent on behalf of all Washingtonians.
• Respect-Employees value and respect the public DNR serves, and one another.
• Professionalism-The Agency is committed to professionalism and civil conduct.
• Joy-DNR's work involves some of the most pressing challenges and opportunities impacting Washington, which staff meet with curiosity and gratitude.

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 E-Verify; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM-Optional Practice Training (OPT). For information, please visit www.uscis.gov.

Veterans wishing to claim Veteran's preference, please attach a copy of your DD214 (Member 4 long-form copy), NGB 22, or a USDVA signed verification of service letter. Please black out all PII (personally identifiable information) data, such as Social Security numbers. 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.

Check us out on: DNR's website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube | WordPress

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. Thats 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 Benefits

Employees 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 Compensation

State 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 Security

All 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 Forgiveness

If 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 WAC 357-31-165(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 WAC 357-31-165(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 WAC 357-58-175, 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 Leave

Washington 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, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.

Additional Leave

Leave Sharing

Parental Leave

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 01-07-2026

01

Please specify where you originally learned of this employment opportunity.

02

Please describe what interests you about the Department of Natural Resources.

03

Please describe what a work environment based on diversity, equity, inclusivity and belonging means to you.

04

Which statement best describes your qualifications for this position?

• OPTION A: I have a Bachelor of Science in forestry, natural resources, or a closely related field from an accredited program AND one year of field experience in forest management.
• OPTION B: I meet the minimum qualifications through an equivalent combination of education, training, and professional experience that demonstrates the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
• OPTION C: I do not meet these qualifications at this time.

05

If you selected OPTION A or C in the previous question, please type N/A. If you selected OPTION B, please describe the experience you gained through education, training, and/or professional experience that demonstrates the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

06

Do you have experience in general forest management activities such as forest road design and construction, timber management planning, silviculture techniques, reforestation methods, and timber harvest boundaries?

• Yes
• No

07

Do you have experience using forestry tools such as measuring and hand tools?

• Yes
• No

08

How do you rate your proficiency with Microsoft Office software to produce reports, letters, and other documents?

• Yes (I have working knowledge and use the software frequently)
• No (I have no experience producing reports, letters and other documents)

09

Do you have experience with Geographic Information Systems (GIS), including ArcPro, ArcGIS Online, Survey123, Field Maps, or other mapping tools to document work and convey information to non-technical audiences?

• Yes
• No

10

Do you have a valid drivers license and at least two years of driving experience?

• Yes
• No

11

Please select which of the following certifications you currently possess:

• Certified Tree Farm Inspector certification
• Public Pest Consultant certification
• None of the above

12

Do you currently require, or will you require in the future, employer sponsorship for a work visa? Please note that DNR does not use E-Verify and cannot extend STEM OPT.

• Yes
• No

Required Question

Employer State of Washington

Address View Job Posting for Agency Information

View Job Posting for Location, Washington, 98504

Website http://www.careers.wa.gov