Want to join something GREAT and make a difference?

These positions serve as entry level or lead foresters working with a team of foresters under the supervision of a Littlerock or Delphi Unit Manager within the Capitol Forest. The chosen candidates will work independently part of the time but have regular interaction with other foresters, forest engineers, other natural resource professionals, as well as other agency/organization members, stakeholders, and the public. Responsibilities within the Presales program are split between timber sale layout and compliance. During timber sale layout the successful candidates will be responsible for the field design of timber sale proposals, including harvest unit design, initial road location, and selection of harvest methods. Work includes completion of presales documentation packets containing maps, informational reports and environmental documents. The successful candidates will also eventually serve as an administrator for timber sales and road plan contracts. The candidates may respond to public and other agency requests relative to State Lands management within their respective units in the Black Hills District.

What we will trust you with:

• Personal Accountability
• Compassionate Communication
• Inspiring Others
• Commitment to Excellence
• Valuing others
• Creating a positive and safe work environment

Who are we looking for?

Natural Resource Specialist 1 (NRS2 In-Training) candidate has:

• Proficient computer skills such as MS Word, MS Excel, ARC-GIS, ARC-View, with aptitude for learning new software programs.
• Ability to inspect, instruct, and work with camp and contract crews to ensure silvicultural prescriptions are met.
• Ability to traverse unit boundaries and accurately create a map, navigate using maps, aerial photos, compass and orthos and gather field data using clinometer, laser rangefinder, prisms, GPS and chain
• Ability to traverse unit boundaries and accurately create a map, navigate using maps, aerial photos, compass, orthos, clinometer, radio, laser rangefinder, GPS, and chain.
• Ability to work on uneven terrain in all weather conditions.
• The incumbent in this position is required to travel.
• Must be at least 18 years of age at the time of hire.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and have two years of driving experience. This position requires driving as an essential function.  Employees who drive for state business, whether in a state or privately-owned vehicle, are required to possess a valid license as defined in policy PO02-006 and abide by all other driver responsibility requirements. 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.

Natural Resource Specialist 2 candidates will meet the NRS 1 required qualifications in addition to the qualifications below:

• Knowledge of general forest management theory (timber management planning, silviculture, appraisal techniques, timber sales, contract preparation and administration, forest fire prevention and suppression, logging and forest road construction, reforestation methods, public relations, statistical analysis).
• Knowledge of basic mensuration, forest biology, and silviculture.
• Demonstrates leadership in the maintenance and development of a safe and healthy work environment by promoting safety as the most important consideration in all tasks and activities and fostering an environment where all employees want to contribute to a culture of safety
• Being empowered to identify, resolve or mitigate observed safety concerns
• Strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills as demonstrated by the ability to resolve conflicts, write effectively, and communicate with diverse groups both internal and external.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team to develop and achieve department and project goals.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a WSDA Pesticide Applicators License.

This level of knowledge and skill is typically achieved with:

• Bachelor’s degree in Forestry, which includes coursework in silviculture and mensuration. OR An Associate’s degree in forest management or related natural resource field; and one year of forestry experience at the entry level. Other natural resource related degrees or additional relevant, professional forestry experience may be considered in lieu of degree.

Desirable Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Forestry.
• One year of professional forestry experience.
• Knowledge of Policy for Sustainable Forests, Habitat Conservation Plan, and related agency policies.
• Knowledge of Forest Practice Rules and SEPA process.
• Experience using GPS and ArcGIS products.
• Experience in young stand establishment and maintenance practices and treatments.
• Experience with logging and forest road construction equipment.
• Experience with the timber sales process and contract administration.

These positions may be filled as an in-training. The training plan is up to 24 months.  If you complete all elements of the training steps in a shorter amount of time, we may waive the remainder of the time required. Candidates will be considered as Natural Resource Specialist 1 or Natural Resource Specialist 2, depending on qualifications.

The Location

One of the world’s most scenic places, Washington State offers breathtaking discoveries for people who love natural beauty and outdoor recreation, from the Pacific Coast shores to the rugged Cascade Mountains to the rolling hills of the Palouse. Your office is located in Tumwater.