Washington State

Description

NW Region Natural Areas Manager. Natural Resource Specialist 4 (NRS4)

Recruitment #2025-11-6025

Full-time, Permanent, Represented, position (WFSE)

Location: Northwest Region- Sedro Woolley, WA

Work Hours and Partial Telework flexibility may be available and considered

Relocation Compensation may be available and considered

Salary: $5,398.00 - $7,254.00 Monthly

Review of applications is ongoing. We reserve the right to make a hiring decision or close this recruitment at any time after 11/10/25. 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 Northwest Region as a NW Region Natural Areas Manager. Natural Resource Specialist 4 (NRS4).

The Northwest Region Natural Areas Manager oversees the management in some of the most beautiful areas of Washington in both Natural Area Preserves (NAPs) and Natural Resources Conservation Areas (NRCAs) in Northwest Region. These spectacular sites literally go from the mountains to the sea, with management occurring in the rugged back-country of the Morning Star NRCA, the largest NRCA in WA, to the beautiful San Juan Islands. The Northwest Region manages 3,085 acres in five Natural Area Preserves (NAPs) and 39,296 acres in nine NRCAs for a total of 42,381 acres. Twenty of the region's 23 developed recreation sites and 41 miles of the region's 121 miles of developed trail are within natural areas. This oversight includes project planning, implementation and management of all natural areas in NW Region, including the upcoming Morning Star Natural Area Management Plan.

Duties

Responsibilities:

• Provide direction and guidance, lead, organize and direct work performed in the NW Region Natural Areas program to ensure effective, efficient delivery of Natural Areas and Recreation Program implementation on Natural Areas throughout NW Region and on San Juan Island Recreation properties.
• Thorough understanding of Natural Areas program goals, policies and program to inform management activities in Northwest Region.
• Demonstrated knowledge of ecological systems, processes and principles and practices.
• Ensure compliance with applicable RCWs, WACs, agency policies and procedures, Natural Areas and Recreation program guidance and management plans.
• Represents the Department to the public, county, other state/federal agencies and professional organizations by serving as the central point of contact and responding to public concerns, giving presentations and giving oral or written notifications.
• Seek, establish and cultivate positive working relationships and develop strategies to collaborate with internal and external customers, including Tribes, other DNR staff, other agency staff, contractors, conservation partners and stakeholders, recreation users, neighboring landowners and the public to effectively and efficiently implement the Natural Areas program in NW Region.
• Guide and work with Natural Areas program staff in the planning and presentation of public hearings and meetings related to Natural Areas establishment, boundary changes, management plan development/updates, public use and administrative facility restoration and development.
• Consult the Natural Heritage Program scientists to identify management concerns on existing, newly designated and potential Natural Areas acquisition properties.
• Conceptualize, plan, prioritize and obtain funding to manage and implement a variety of legislatively appropriated capital and grant funded projects to help achieve conservation goals and objectives. Provide for safe, sustainable recreation opportunities on Natural Areas throughout NW Region and on San Juan Island recreation properties.
• Develop and manage a variety of A/E, public works and professional services contracts, ensuring that each is consistent with applicable RCWs, WACs, management plans and agency policies and procedures.
• Manage NW Region Natural Areas operations and capital budgets to ensure deliverables are achieved within allotments.
• Develop operational budget projections, track expenses and ensure deliverables are achieved within allotments.
• Develop budgets for capital project proposals and provide guidance to subordinate staff.
• Manage administrative facility in Secret Harbor on Cypress Island.
• Monitor and perform routine operational and maintenance activities for off-grid solar system, heat, appliances and water system.
• Conduct routine building maintenance and repairs.
• Manage the boats associated with the San Juan Islands Natural Areas and Recreation Programs in NW Region.
• Mechanical aptitude is necessary to perform routine maintenance and repairs on administrative facilities, including associated systems and equipment, and to enlist assistance of qualified technicians for more technical elements of such work.
• Most Natural Areas landscapes in Northwest Region are in remote, backcountry locations, and in the San Juan Islands, where logistics are challenging. Working in such locations requires an ability to create and implement a variety of means/methods to get materials, supplies and people to work sites, and to conduct work therein.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in natural resources or conservation-related area of specialty AND four years of work experience in a natural resource related field;
• OR an equivalent combination of education and/or experience.
• Experience related to collaborative decision making on land use/land management activities.
• Experience with outcome-based performance measures, as related to program delivery.
• Proficiency in word processing, spreadsheet, presentation, and other professional software.
• Knowledge of ecological systems, processes and principles and practices.
• Understanding of public land management framework, processes, and topical issues.
• Ability to devise strategies and methods to achieve a wide variety of work in remote locations; comfortable working alone in remote, backcountry locations, including inclement weather conditions.
• Mechanical aptitude is necessary to perform routine maintenance and repairs on administrative facilities, including associated systems and equipment, and to enlist assistance of qualified technicians for more technical elements of such work.
• 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.
• Accustomed to working independently and as part of a team to develop and achieve department and project 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

Special Requirements and Conditions of Employment:

• Position's assigned duty station is the region office. Approximately 50% of the work is performed in an office setting and the balance is performed in the field. Field work may be performed alone, or with other DNR staff, WCC crews, volunteers, contractors, or others, in remote, backcountry areas. Position must be able to traverse uneven terrain in all weather conditions.
• Position requires travel to remote locations in NW Region, with occasional overnight stays (e.g. camping in backcountry locations). Occasional day, overnight and weeklong travel to Olympia and other locations for meetings, training, etc. is also required.
• A 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:

• Master’s degree in a conservation-related specialty.
• Thorough understanding of Natural Areas program goals, policies and program to inform management activities in Northwest Region.
• Experience coordinating the efforts of internal and external customers to solve complex land management issues.
• Experience with contract management, especially in the Architecture/Engineering (A/E) and/or public works arenas.

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 DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov. 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: 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.

• 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: References are 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 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 those communications.

Questions? Please contact Cory McDonald at cory.mcdonald@dnr.wa.gov/360-333-2146 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 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 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. That's 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 07-21-2025

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