Natural Areas Steward, Agricultural Research Technologist 2

Responsibilities:

• Implement invasive species control and surveys on DNR-owned natural areas including herbicide applications mowing and mechanical removal
• Coordinate and implement restoration practices on natural areas including native seed collection planting prescribed fire fuel break preparations and falling small trees
• Participate in prescribed burns per National Wildfire Coordinating Group qualifications
• Use GIS and GPS technology to map natural area features and treatments
• Monitor ecological features and effects of land and resource management actions including identifying plants using a technical key recording data in plots and conducting botanical and faunal surveys.

Required Qualifications:

• A bachelors degree with a major study in conservation biology botany plant ecology restoration ecology or a closely related field;
  OR an equivalent combination of education and/or experience.
• One year of technical experience in a closely related natural resource field. This must include six months of experience implementing habitat restoration or invasive plant control projects.
• Experience with invasive species control including application of commercial herbicides and an understanding of how to choose the best method in various scenarios.
• Knowledge of ecological principles and an understanding of ecosystem processes including those regarding ecosystems of western Washington.
• Knowledge of ecological field data collection techniques.
• Knowledge of how to keep records and take field notes.
• Ability to effectively and efficiently oversee volunteers to accomplish program goals.
• 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

• Positions assigned duty station is Olympia. Work performed is field work (approximately 90%) with some travel to remote locations. Must be able to execute assigned projects independently without direct supervision. Field visits require the physical ability to work alone in undeveloped remote forested or backcountry landscapes and terrains and the ability to traverse uneven terrain. The ability to mix and apply herbicides without supervision is required.
• Some travel throughout western Washington will be required. Occasional overnight trips may be necessary up to once per month. Occasional requests for overnight travel statewide to attend other region or all program staff meetings may occur infrequently.
• A valid drivers 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.

• A Current valid Pesticide Applicators License.
• Ability in plant identification including the ability to use a dichotomous key (preferably Hitchcock & Cronquists Flora of the Pacific Northwest).
• Experience conducting rare plant surveys and using plant monitoring techniques.
• Experience using a GPS and familiarity with computer spreadsheet or database programs.
• Advanced knowledge & familiarity with the flora of western Washington and a working knowledge of the invasive species present in western Washington.
• Experience conducting restoration projects in western Washington prairie-oak conifer forest and wetland ecosystems.
• Experience working with GIS-based computer applications.

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

• Apply online:at (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:Referencesare optional at the time your application is submitted. Finalists will be asked to provide a list of at least 3 professional references with current telephone numbers including your current or most recent supervisor.
• 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 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.

• 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 states 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.

• Commitment to organizational health and wellness
• Work/life balance
• DNR Employee Resource Groups (Diversity Equity and Inclusion Council Womens 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 for more information.