Deputy Director for Equity, Environmental Justice, and Civil Rights, Exempt description image

Nearshore Natural Resource Scientist 1 (NRSci1)

 
Salary: $49,116.00 – $66,012.00 Annually
Location: Thurston County – Olympia, WA
Job Type: Seasonal
Job Number: 2024-12-7060-13524
Department: Dept. of Natural Resources
Opening Date: 12/03/2024
Closing Date: 12/10/2024 11:59 PM Pacific
 
 
 
 
 
 
Nearshore Natural Resource Scientist 1 (NRSci1)
Recruitment #2024-12-7060
Full-time, Permanent, Career Seasonal, Represented position
Anticipated Seasonal employment is January – December 2025
Location: Olympia, WA.
Work Hours and Partial Telework flexibility may be available and considered 
Salary: 
$4,093.00 – $5,501.00 Monthly

Review of applications is ongoing. We reserve the right to make a hiring decision or close this recruitment at any time after 12/10/24. 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) seeks to hire a Nearshore Marine Scientist out of Olympia, Washington, to perform kelp and eelgrass research within the Nearshore Habitat Program. Working independently and as part of a team, you will work alongside a team of scientists and data analysts to conduct marine vegetation monitoring surveys, specifically collecting and analyzing seagrass and macroalgae field data and other datasets associated with nearshore habitat monitoring. 

Work will primarily focus on underwater videography data collection throughout Puget Sound and subsequent classification. You will also participate in kelp canopy monitoring data collection and assist with other Nearshore Habitat Program-related research, monitoring, and restoration. Our ideal candidates will have a background in kelp or eelgrass ecology, field data collection, data processing, analyses and synthesis, and report writing. The position will also assist with other nearshore vegetation studies in the field and laboratory. 

Additionally, the position will collect seagrass, algae, and related environmental data using defined methods from a variety of platforms (e.g., foot, kayak, and small boat) and field sampling instruments including GPS, CastAway, and light and temperature sensors. The position will assist with preliminary data analysis and summary report production, read scientific papers and reports, and attend scientific conferences and meetings. Additional field-related tasks include the development of field schedules and float plans, boat operation, and scientific equipment management. Office-related project tasks include managing environmental instruments additional sample/data processing, data entry, analysis, and report writing as needed. 

The work accomplished by this position provides important baseline information on habitat in Puget Sound and is used to inform policy, managers, and legislation.

 

Duties

Responsibilities:

  • Participate in kelp and seagrass research throughout Puget Sound. 
  • Collect and classify video data for the presence/absence and/or cover of marine vegetation and frequency of specified marine organisms. 
  • Assist in the production and review of program deliverables: reports, peer-reviewed papers, presentations, maps, etc.
  • Following established protocols, prepare samples in a laboratory setting.
  • Work collaboratively with peers to maintain water quality sensor instrumentation for deployment.

 

Qualifications

Required Qualifications: 

  • A bachelor’s degree in environmental science, biology, ecology, or related natural science, AND two years of professional experience;
    OR an equivalent combination of education and or experience.
  • Experience in field and laboratory-based data collection and processing.
  • Ability to process scientific data according to defined procedures.
  • Working knowledge of data analysis principles and basic statistics.
  • Ability to create, manipulate, and QC data sets using Excel, Access, or R.
  • Ability to summarize procedures and scientific findings in a written and oral format.
  • 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 is located primarily in the office, with regular field work and occasional travel for meetings and conferences. Some tasks are completed in a laboratory without hazardous chemicals. Required working conditions include the ability to meet schedule and travel requirements and the ability to conduct fieldwork by boat and on foot in all weather conditions.  Fieldwork is conducted by boat, van, or on foot, primarily occurring from May through September, comprising approximately 75% of work time during these months. This position requires normal binocular and color vision. An essential function of this job is to classify marine vegetation on collected video data and distinguish between species across the color spectrum that may otherwise appear similar and be indistinguishable.
  • Up to 7 consecutive days in travel status is expected, approximately 6-10 times per year. The position requires field work and occasional travel for meetings and conferences, typically in western Washington.
  • 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:
  • Experience identifying and distinguishing marine vegetation found in Puget Sound, especially kelp and eelgrass.
  • Small boat experience & safety training. Certification such as the WA State Boater Education Card, and Motorboat Operator’s Certification Course (MOCC).
  • Knowledge of ArcGIS software.
  • Experience in marine/estuarine ecological research and literature especially with kelp, eelgrass, or other marine vegetation.
  • Familiarity with environmental monitoring equipment, particularly water quality sensors.

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.).
  • 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 Lisa Ferrier at lisa.ferrier@dnr.wa.gov/360-902-1030 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.

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