Conservation Easement Cruiser, Natural Resource Specialist 3 (NRS3)

Description

Work Hours and Partial Telework flexibility may be available and considered
Relocation Compensation may be available and considered
Salary: $4,865.00 - $6,539.00 Monthly

Review of applications is ongoing. We reserve the right to make a hiring decision or close this recruitment at any time after 4/10/25. It is in your best interest to submit materials as soon as possible.

Want to join something GREAT and make a difference?
Are you interested in a career that allows you to serve small forest landowners by compensating them for the economic impacts of the Forest Practices Rules? The Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is looking for a Conservation Easement Cruiser to manage the timber cruises for both the Forestry Riparian Easement Program (FREP) and the Rivers and Habitat Open Space Program (RHOSP), by performing detailed cruises of eligible areas, managing timber cruise contracts with 3rd parties, and performing check cruises. This position performs statewide efforts to schedule, plan, and set up timber cruises or timber cruise contracts in accordance with Washington statutes, on behalf of the small forest landowners of Washington and the Small Forest Landowners Office.

Duties

Responsibilities:

• Cruises timber in potential Forestry Riparian Easements and Rivers and Habitat Open Space easements, in compliance with the DNR Timber Cruising handbook, and Program WAC guidance. 
• Determines layout and sampling intensity to achieve statistically acceptable results.
• Understands and obtains relevant data to estimate gross and net volume, including: estimates bole height; estimates form factor; identifies tree species in eastern and western Washington; identifies correct sort and grade; estimates extent of defect and makes appropriate reductions.
• Conducts outreach and advertises for bids for authorized purchase service timber cruise contracts, serves as the point of contact for questions, and recommends the award of contracts to the Conservation Easement Program Manager.
• Oversees and performs cruise contract compliance tasks, such as checking cruise of deliverables, ensuring that cruise data is statistically sound, and verifying accuracy of cruise narratives and reports.
• Maintains fluent use of agency software such as Microsoft Word and Excel as well as Atterbury SuperACE to analyze cruise data and produce accurate cruise narratives and reports.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications: 

• A bachelor’s degree in forestry, natural resource science/management, or closely related field;
  OR an equivalent combination of education and/or experience.
• At least 2 years’ experience leading timber cruise projects.
• Advanced level proficiency and knowledge with Microsoft Office and Adobe applications.
• Experience using software designed to gather and report timber cruise data. Experience collecting data using a Global Positioning System (GPS) in a forest setting.
• Experience using a GIS database and mapping software to include creating and exporting maps.
• Experience in preparing and administering forest management contracts.
• Experience in resource protection buffer layout in a forested setting.
• Ability to work independently with creative adaptability.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Convey messages clearly and persuasively.
• Experience providing technical information to a wide variety of audiences, including small forest landowners.
• 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 work will be split between work in an office/teleworking setting (60%) and work in the field (40%). Field work will be conducted in isolated, managed forests throughout Washington State; must be able to traverse by foot in uneven terrain safely and may be exposed to inclement weather, insects, and wildlife. Office work is done at an open workstation (i.e., "cubicle") in the Forest Regulation Division's work area at the Natural Resources Building in Olympia or through teleworking when appropriate. With approval from the Appointing Authority, teleworking for a portion of work time is an option.
• Travel will be required with a few overnight stays a month. Field work will be accessed by vehicle, often in remote areas on unpaved road surfaces.
• A valid, unrestricted driver’s license and 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:

• Working knowledge of delineation of Channel Migration Zones and critical habitat for state-listed threatened or endangered species.
• Current working knowledge of WA state forest practices statutes, rules, regulations, policies, procedures, and agency practices.
• Highly motivated toward accomplishing goals.
• Experience working with small forest landowners.
• 3 or more years’ experience in timber cruising.

Don’t let doubts stop you from applying for this position. If you have any questions about the required qualifications or how your experience relates to them, please contact us at [email protected]. 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 for the position and the position required, desired, and special requirements.
• Resume: that details your experience and qualifications.
• References: 3-5 professional references with current telephone numbers, to include your 2 most recent supervisors. You may attach a document, use the References text field in the online application, or include it with your resume.
• Important: Do not attach any documents that include photos or private information (social security number, year of birth, etc.).
• Complete all supplemental questions.
• Candidates who move forward in the recruitment process may be contacted via email at [email protected] 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 KelliAnne Ricks at [email protected] or e-mail us at [email protected]

Persons needing accommodation in the application/testing process or this job announcement in an alternative format may call (360) 522-2500 or email [email protected]. 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 that 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 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 www.uscis.gov.

Veterans wishing to claim Veteran’s preference, please attach a copy of your DD-214, NGB-22, or other verification of military service. Please black out your social security number before attaching it. We thank you and are grateful for your service!

Equal Opportunity Employer: The Washington State Department of Natural Resources is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation, and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons with disability, persons over 40 years of age, veterans, military spouses or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply.

Once you submit your online application, you can check your status by logging into your account. If you experience technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application, call 360-664-1960 or 1-877-664-1960 or email [email protected].

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