Responsibilities:
The Policy Director is responsible for the development, management, and implementation of strategies to advance DNR’s public policy goals. The Policy Director works closely with DNR program staff and other members of the Executive Management team to develop policy initiatives and provides the Commissioner with high-level, strategic policy advice.

• Develop and implement long-range strategic policy initiatives and translate long-range goals into short-term, actionable projects.
• Collaborate with agency divisions and programs to achieve the Commissioner’s goals. Identify and analyze information required for policy development and legislation.
• Consult with and advise executive management on key policy issues, including legislative and federal issues.
• Collaborate with agency staff on initiatives of agency-wide strategic importance.
• Participate in and/or lead internal and external work groups on natural resources policy initiatives.
• Work with diverse and often competing stakeholders to develop solutions and resolve conflicts regarding policy issues.
• In partnership with the Governmental and External Affairs team, write and support agency requests for legislation, and conduct research on the impact of potential legislation.
• Represent the Commissioner at meetings and events as required.
• Draft policy-related correspondence consistent with the Commissioner’s vision and voice.
• Effectively lead and mentor a team to achieve defined outcomes while promoting team members’ professional growth.

Required Qualifications: 

• A bachelor’s degree or higher in political science, public administration, natural resources, or a closely related field;
  OR a combination of education and/or experience equivalent.
• Significant experience working in the natural resources field, either in government or non-profit sectors, and demonstrated commitment to ecological forestry practices.
• Experience leading and managing cross-functional teams and projects.
• Commitment to fostering and supporting an environment that honors diversity, equity, inclusion, and environmental justice practices.
• Demonstrated ability to make effective oral presentations to both internal and external audiences, and craft excellent written presentations that distill complex concepts into digestible information.
• Experience researching, analyzing, and drafting policy initiatives and/or legislation.
• Ability to develop, maintain, and strengthen partnerships and work cooperatively with others, inside and outside the organization, to develop solutions on high-profile projects.
• Significant experience leading and mentoring a team to reach their full potential while achieving department and project goals.
• An understanding of, and adherence to, confidentiality in work practices.
• A strong work ethic and commitment to public service.
• Understanding of, and experience working in, a political environment.
• Ability to 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

• Work is primarily in an office setting.
• Travel as needed, approximately 15%. Occasional evening and weekend work; occasional field visits.

• Have a Master’s Degree or higher in political science, environmental planning, public policy, environmental science, or another field relevant to the position’s responsibilities;
  OR ten years of relevant professional experience.
• Significant knowledge of ecological forestry practices and/or ecosystem services.
• Knowledge of clean energy, aquatics, and/or recreation.
• Be motivated, creative, and hardworking, with a successful track record of solving complex policy issues at the state, federal, and/or municipal level.
• Demonstrate excellent communication and research skills.
• Thrive in a fast-paced work environment.
• Experience moving a high-priority, high-profile project involving multiple, competing interests from start to completion.
• Experience building and managing relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including business and private industry partners, government officials, agency staff, senior managers, and the public.
• Ability to work in partnership with internal and external stakeholders to advance broad public policy goals.
• Enhanced written and oral communication skills and the ability to explain complex topics to audiences.
• An understanding of the larger historical, social, economic, and political context of natural resource management in Washington.
• Experience successfully resolving conflicts and receiving and conveying ideas, thoughts, and information effectively.
• The ability to manage multiple short-term and long-term projects simultaneously and work collaboratively to support the work of teams within the agency.
• A strong team leader and mentor with direct supervisory skills and experience. 

Application Requirements:

• 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.
• Attach an example of a policy analysis brief, project management framework, or similar work product demonstrating your policy analysis/project management skills. If you have questions regarding attaching this document, please contact DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov. If you do not attach an example, you will not move forward in the application process.
• 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.

• 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.

• 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.