*Housing stipend of up to $1000/mo. maybe available

Join something GREAT and make a difference!
Are you someone who loves the outdoors and is passionate about sustainable forest management? If you enjoy working in the outdoors, appreciate a remote natural environment, and enjoy generating and working with data, then this is the job for you.

The DNR Silviculture Section is seeking an intern to support work in three important areas: 1) monitoring the implementation of DNR’s Habitat Conversation Plan, 2) monitoring the implementation and success of silvicultural activities on DNR lands, and 3) supporting the production of seed and seedlings at the agency’s nursery and seed orchard facility (located in Tumwater, WA). You will be responsible for conducting a wide variety of tasks such as assessing forest conditions in the field, reviewing timber sale documentation, monitoring cone crops, and assisting with horticultural activities for seedling production, among other tasks. You will also be part of a team of silviculture scientists working to support the management of healthy, productive forests for current and future generations through stewardship, science, and technology. This work will involve traveling across multiple DNR regions allowing for the exploration of different forest ecotypes.

 

Duties

Responsibilities:
Work alongside silviculture research and monitoring staff to accomplish the following:

• Works both independently and (or) as part of a team to conduct field reviews of forest management activities for compliance with agency policies and procedures.
• Gathers forest measurement data such as tree diameter, tree height, species identification, tree density, and understory vegetation data.
• Assists with the installation of research studies in the field. Activities include marking plot corners, marking seedling locations, and planting seedlings.
• Operates and maintains field instruments and equipment such as height poles, calipers, tablets, laser range finders, and GPS units.
• Monitor cone crops, prepare genetic test sites for planting, and conduct inventories of seed orchard sites 
• Assist with horticultural activities associated with seedling production at the Webster Forest Nursery 
• Records data using both paper datasheets and electronic resources (handheld tables and GPS). 
• Conducts data entry and quality control of collected data.
• Updates the HCP Checklist database by reviewing timber sale documentation.
• Reports to the supervisor verbally and in writing regarding fieldwork and data management

 

Qualifications

Required Qualifications: 

• A full-time student (12+ credits/quarter) majoring in Forestry, Horticulture, Crop or Forest Science, Natural Resources Management, or related field and will be returning to school in the following quarter/semester.
• A licensed driver with two years of driving experience. Employees who drive for state business, whether in a state or privately owned vehicle, are required to possess a valid license and abide by all other driver responsibility requirements.
• At least 18 years of age at the time of hire.
• DNR Core Competencies:
  • Personal Accountability
  • Value Others
  • Compassionate Communication
  • Inspire Others
  • Commitment to Excellence
• Maintain high standards for safety
• Maintain high standards of personal, professional, and ethical conduct
• Contributes to a work environment that embraces diversity and brings together the strengths and perspectives of diverse groups.
• Conveys a clear desire and ability to learn new concepts and skills.
• Shows the ability to turn learned conceptions into practical application.
  

Special Requirements and Conditions of Employment:

• Able to work alone or as part of a team in undeveloped, remote, forested, or back-country landscapes and terrain in all weather conditions.
• Overnight travel is limited but may be required if a project is in a remote location or if a learning opportunity includes visiting another 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. 

Desired Qualifications:

• High level of attention to detail
• Basic computer skills including Microsoft Office, Adobe, and ArcGIS skills
• Basic written and oral communication skills
• Work or recreational experience driving on logging (dirt or gravel) roads. 

Desired coursework includes: 

• Silviculture
• Forest Mensuration or Biometrics
• Forest Ecology
• Horticulture

Don’t let doubts stop you from applying for this position – If you have any questions about the required qualifications or how your past 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:

• 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.).
• Attach a copy of your college degree certificate or an unofficial copy of your transcripts. If you have questions regarding attaching this document please contact dnrrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov. If you do not attach your college degree certificate or an unofficial copy of your transcript your application will not move forward in the application process. 
• 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 Maxwell Wightman at (564) 669-0669 or maxwell.wightman@dnr.wa.gov or e-mail 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 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 CareersHelp@des.wa.gov.