Education and Enforcement Warden, Natural Resource Specialist 2 (NRS2)

Description

Work Hours flexibility may be available and considered 
Relocation Compensation may be available and considered
Salary: 4,299.00 - $5,783.00 Monthly

Want to join something GREAT and make a difference?
Are you someone who is looking for a rewarding career in the outdoors? Do you want the opportunity to serve the citizens of Washington? If you love working in a remote forest environment, value public service, possess practical forestry skills, and have a proven ability to work as an integral part of a small team, look no further.

The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has an exciting opportunity within our Northwest Region. We are seeking an Education and Enforcement Warden (Natural Resource Specialist 2) to be a vital part of the Northwest recreation team. This position works in the Walker Valley ORV area, the Harry Osborne State Forest, and Blanchard State Forest within Skagit County. This position often is the initial point of contact with the public utilizing these designated recreational sites. One of the primary functions of this important position is to be a source of information and educate as needed, for individuals recreating on these DNR landscapes.

Duties

Responsibilities:

• Working with the District Recreation Manager, the E&E Warden is responsible for implementation of the Region public use education and enforcement program. This position is directly responsible for education and enforcement activities such as making public contacts, user safety, investigation, and incident reporting. Supports the district's recreation managers with developing and distributing educational materials on trails and trailheads and implementing outreach activities at local events. Using the Warden’s training, knowledge, and experience, directly enforces compliance with the agency’s recreation and public access rules protecting resources, managing public behavior and user safety. Attends and represents DNR at interagency committee meetings, user group, focus group, and other similar meetings as required. Responsibilities also include incident investigation, data collection, and compliance of permitted events on department managed lands. Assists with design and installation of regulatory and educational signage on DNR land. Documents and reports state lands abuse associated with state land covered by this position to the DNR Law Enforcement Officer, County Sheriff, or others for follow up action. This position works directly with the Region’s Law Enforcement Officers in incident enforcement and investigation on department managed lands.
• Supports the District Recreation Manager to develop, and implement a highly visible, coordinated strategy for the Education & Enforcement Program in Northwest Region to include public outreach, volunteer recruitment, and tracking and reporting of volunteer hours. Such duties may include developing and implementing a forest watch program in areas where there is not a formalized volunteer program. Trains, directs, and evaluates volunteers regarding education and enforcement issues. Responsible for reviewing volunteer time and activity reports, equipment mileage, and maintenance logs and submitting this information to Region Recreation Managers. Responds to issues and problems at trailheads and surrounding areas. Coordinates and supervises weekend volunteer activities.
• Assists the Region recreation maintenance and operations by inspecting and evaluating trails and facilities after permitted organized events and recommending appropriate remedies. Perform minor trail repairs and maintenance while on trail patrol duties, observe and report trail maintenance needs and resource conditions occurring on trails, trailheads, and surrounding areas. Maintain trailheads and day use areas. Conducts field inspections and gathers trail data, prepares reports describing and evaluating trail conditions. Duties can also include recreation sign installation and maintenance.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications: 

• Associate’s degree and two years of experience in Natural Resources, or similar position, both focused on recreation management and user education and outreach;
  OR an equivalent combination of education and/or experience.
• Experience using computers including the use of Excel, Access, Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, or similar computer software.
• Experience with conflict resolution and defusing tense situations.
• Ability to respond to difficult, stressful or sensitive interpersonal situations in a way that reduces or minimizes potential conflict and maintains good working relationships among internal and external customers.
• The ability to use independent judgment effectively.
• Highly developed writing and oral communication skills, public presentations skills, and the ability to effectively inform and educate user groups, volunteers, and the general public.
• Ability to collect and track work progress metrics to meet reporting requirements of grants and to the DNR.
• Familiarity with the principles and practices of recreation management.
• Ability to operate and maintain various types of equipment, including but not limited to: chainsaws, small power tools, quads, off-road motorcycles and mountain bikes.
• Ability to communicate effectively and persuasively, in writing and verbally, in both small and large group settings.
• 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 position's assigned duty station is located at the Sedro Woolley region office. The majority (80%) of work is performed alone in isolated unimproved areas. Incumbent must be able to traverse uneven terrain in all weather conditions. The position will require operating a four-wheel drive vehicle on highway and forest roads, as well as trail hiking, and riding ATVs, UTVs, and off-road motorcycles on trails in moderate to difficult terrain. Must be able to cover reasonable distances per day in the field on moderate to very difficult terrain. Must be willing to work alone and in remote terrain and all weather conditions.
  These duties are accomplished while the employee is working alone, in remote locations, often with no cell service. The employee must exercise independent judgment to make the best decisions possible to protect the department, the resources, and their safety. This occurs often in difficult and potentially dangerous situations, with no backup from law enforcement or other staff.
• Position requires large majority (90%) of time in the field traveling alone between trailheads, trails, day use areas, and work centers. Most travel will be in the region.
• 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. 
• Must be able to complete and pass ORV safety training within three months of the date of hire.

Desired Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in public use, recreation, natural resources, forestry, law enforcement, or closely related field.
• Familiarity with Washington Department of Natural Resources public use, and trust land management responsibilities and practices are desirable.
• Law Enforcement experience.
• Familiarity with Washington State RCWs and WACs relating to ORV and Public Use on state land.
• Knowledge of outdoor recreation activities preferred.
• Certification as an ATV or off-road motorcycle trainer.
• Additional education specializing in outdoor recreation or public use.

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 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 [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 Jesse Steele @ [email protected] / (360) 854-8687 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 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 [email protected].

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