Service Forestry Specialist, Natural Resource Specialist 2 (NRS2)

Service Forestry Specialist, Natural Resource Specialist 2 (NRS2)

Salary

$54,204.00 - $72,900.00 Annually

Location

Clark County - Other, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Non-Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

2026-7-A135-05850

Department

Dept. of Natural Resources

Opening Date

07/15/2026

Closing Date

7/29/2026 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 Forestry Specialist, Natural Resource Specialist 2 (NRS2)

Recruitment #2026-7-A135

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

Anticipated employment is August 2026 - June 2027

Location: Pacific Cascade Region- Battle Ground, WA

Work Hours and Partial Telework flexibility may be available and considered

Relocation Compensation 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 7/22/26. 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 Pacific Cascade Region as a Service Forestry Specialist.

The mission of DNR is to manage, sustain, and protect the health and productivity of Washington's lands and waters to meet the needs of present and future generations. DNR has an exciting opportunity within the Pacific Cascade Region's Forest Resilience Program. Are you someone who loves the outdoors and is passionate about restoring the ecology of our forest ecosystems? Do you enjoy working with diverse landowners and partners, working to find solutions in forest management? Are you passionate about forestry and helping small landowners? Then this job is for you!

Duties

Responsibilities:

• As directed, solicit candidates for participation through formal and informal opportunities such as public education events, media opportunities, partner engagement, and other related activities.
• With guidance from the Service Forester or District Manager, accept and return phone, email, and other inquiries from forest landowners regarding financial assistance opportunities.
• Schedule site visits with landowners for on-the-ground review of their project area to ensure landowner objectives are compatible with program and funding criteria.
• Work with landowners to complete and submit all required documents such as financial assistance application, W-9, Statewide Vendor Form, etc.
• Review financial assistance applications for completeness, accuracy, and applicability to available funding sources.
• Use knowledge and experience to incorporate landowner objectives into standard mitigation actions to develop property-specific land management prescriptions. Coordinate with the Service Forester in the development of site-specific resource management plans/reports and/or forest stewardship plans.
• Plan and prioritize assigned field work for fuels reduction and forest health; site-specific coordinate or facilitate contractor selection and ensure planned activities will meet all applicable agency guidance as well as State and federal requirements.
• Perform periodic progress checks to ensure compliance and take corrective actions if required.
• Perform sign-off inspection upon completion of work to determine if contractual obligations, goals of the program, and applicable conditions were met.
• Gather spatial data and other required attributes to accurately and completely catalog activities performed.
• Provide data to Service Foresters or others to facilitate aggregation for periodic accomplishment reports such as monthly and annual grant performance reports, final grant close-out accomplishment reports, quarterly performance measures, deliverable accomplishments, etc.
• Under the guidance of the Service Forester or District Manager, respond to and provide low-complexity technical expertise and advice to forest landowners regarding forest management practices, diagnosis and recommendations for forest health problems, animal damage and competing vegetation control, wildland fire risk reduction, and other resource issues and opportunities.
• Engage appropriate subject matter experts (Service Forester, entomologist, pathologist, wildlife biologist, Regulatory Assistance Forester, Service Forestry Coordinator, Community Resilience Specialist, etc.) when knowledge or experience level is exceeded.
• Provide technical specifications for forest management practices and silvicultural treatments. Monitor and report on treatment implementation.
• Deliver information and stories about service forestry work in assigned area to the public and DNR staff in coordination with supervisors and Communications staff.
• Coordinate with and provide consultation to other forest health improvement projects (such as organized by Planning, Science, and Monitoring or Cross-Boundary Restoration) within assigned work area as requested.
• Make educational presentations to family forest landowners, natural resource professionals who advise them, contractors, and other audiences regarding forestry topics.
• Author educational and informational articles on program-related topics for Stewardship Notes, Small Forest Landowner Newsletter, and other publications
• Teach forestry-related topics for WSU Extension and other education programs including Forest Owners Field Days, Forest Stewardship Coached Planning Courses, Family Forest Advisors Workshops, Contract Trainings, Conservation Districts, colleges, and others across western WA.
• Participate in training, professional development, and continuing education to maintain credentials such as SAF Certified Forester, Certified Tree Farm Inspector, Public Pest Control Consultant, or others.
• Collaborate with staff to maintain and update knowledge related to technology, data collection, and other job duties.
• Complete special projects as assigned.
• Respond to informational requests for program information, accomplishment data, staff, and budget needs, etc.

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. It is important that you clearly communicate in your application material that your skills align with the position and qualifications.

• Associate degree in forestry, forestry education, or other closely related field AND (3) three years of field experience in forest management in the Pacific Northwest or similar environment;

OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.

• 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 ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online, Survey123, FieldMaps, and other mapping tools to document work and convey information to non-technical audiences.

Required Competencies:

• Accustomed to working independently.
• Accustomed to a high level of Time management.
• Effective oral and written communication skills and can convey messages clearly and persuasively. Excellent public speaking skills.
• Organizational management - has a strong understanding and ability to organize efficiently and the ability to develop or use systems for tracking implementation and accomplishments of several complex projects.
• 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 majority of work is performed alone in sometimes isolated unimproved areas and on forest or rangeland but may include office, field, and classroom settings. Ability to walk over steep, uneven terrain in a variety of forest environments, year-round, statewide in a variety of weather conditions is required.
• Position requires extensive travel to provide technical expertise to landowners and occasional travel to meetings, training, and outreach events. Some overnight stays may be required. The employee is eligible for per diem and lodging costs when in travel status. The ability to drive long distances in a variety of weather conditions, year-round, is required.
• 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, it can help you stand out as a candidate and should be highlighted in your application material.

• Bachelor of Science in forestry, natural resources, or closely related field from an accredited program AND 2 years of field experience in forest management in the Pacific Northwest or similar environment.
• 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.
• SAF Certified Forester and/or FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot certification.
• Valid Public Pest Consultant and Certified Tree Farm Inspector 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 Mackenna Milosevich at mackenna.milosevich@dnr.wa.gov/360-866-6300 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 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 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

Please describe your forestry-related experience.

04

Please describe your experience working with landowners or the public.

05

Please select which of the following best describes your education and/or experience:

• I have an associate degree in forestry, forestry education, or another closely related field AND (3) three years of field experience in forest management in the Pacific Northwest.
• I have a combination of education and/or experience equivalent to an associate degree in forestry, forestry education, or another closely related field AND (3) three years of field experience in forest management in the Pacific Northwest.
• None of the above.

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

Please rate your proficiency with computers, Microsoft Office applications, and SharePoint.

• Expert (exceptional knowledge, recognized as expert user)
• Skilled (solid knowledge, uses software frequently)
• Developing (working knowledge)
• Beginner (little or no experience, but interested and willing to learn)

09

Do you have experience with Geographic Information Systems (GIS), including ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online, Survey123, FieldMaps, and 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

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?

• Yes
• No
• Unsure

12

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)

13

If you answered "other" to the previous question, please specify where you originally learned of this employment opportunity in the space below.

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