$89,316.00 – $120,048.00 Annually<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Thurston County \u2013 Olympia, WA<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Full Time – Permanent<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Flexible\/Hybrid<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
2025-11-6388-07961<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Dept. of Natural Resources<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
11\/13\/2025<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
11\/25\/2025 11:59 PM Pacific<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step<\/p>\n
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- Description<\/a><\/li>\n
- Benefits<\/a><\/li>\n
- Questions<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n
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Description<\/h2>\n<\/dt>\n
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\nNHP Lead Kelp Scientist, Natural Resource Scientist 4 (NRSci4)<\/strong>
Recruitment #2025-11-6388
Full-time, Permanent, Represented position (WFSE)
Location: Natural Resources Building – Olympia, WA
<\/strong><\/div>\nWork Hours and Partial Telework flexibility may be available and considered<\/strong>
Salary: $7,443.00 – $10,004.00 Monthly<\/strong>
\nCLOSING DATE EXTENDED! Review of applications is ongoing.\u00a0<\/strong>We reserve the right to make a hiring decision or close this recruitment at any time after 11\/20\/25. It is in your best interest to submit materials as soon as possible.<\/p>\nWant to join something GREAT and make a difference?<\/strong>
The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has an exciting opportunity within our Aquatic Resources Division as the Nearshore Habitat Program\u2019s (NHP) Lead Kelp Scientist<\/strong>! Co-lead an energetic and passionate team of scientists focused on long-term monitoring of critical marine nearshore habitats to inform conservation and recovery actions. The work of the Nearshore Habitat Program fulfills, in part, DNR\u2019s mandate to \u2018ensure environmental protection\u2019 by providing scientifically sound data and assessments of state aquatic resources. \u00a0The team leads on publishing data and work products to inform DNR\u2019s Kelp and Eelgrass Health and Conservation Plan, and to update the Puget Sound Vital Sign Indicators for Floating Kelp and Eelgrass.<\/dd>\n- \n
Duties<\/h2>\n<\/dt>\n
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Responsibilities:<\/strong>
This position is a lead kelp scientist for nearshore habitat research planning and execution, and oversees scientific work that is required to meet nearshore habitat monitoring and assessment objectives related to kelp forests. Specific responsibilities include:<\/p>\n- \n
- Co-leading the Nearshore Habitat Program, including guiding strategic planning, project design and implementation, workload planning, and technical review of results.<\/li>\n
- Developing, designing, and overseeing scientific research projects, including field operations, data collection, and data analysis.\u00a0<\/li>\n
- Supervising research scientists (entry- to senior-level staff) on projects, including project design, sampling design, data collection, data analysis, and reporting.\u00a0<\/li>\n
- Working with interagency and academic personnel on a local, state, federal, tribal, and international basis to collaboratively identify research needs related to kelp forest ecosystems and intertidal biotic communities. \u00a0<\/li>\n
- Managing the program research budget and staff, including administering contracts or agreements to implement projects.\u00a0<\/li>\n
- Providing site- and project-specific support to the Division and Regions on environmental protection, mitigation, restoration, embayment planning, reserves, and other land use projects impacting nearshore aquatic lands.\u00a0<\/li>\n
- Supporting in the development of scientifically sound criteria and standards relating to nearshore habitat management.\u00a0<\/li>\n
- Reviewing reports and policy documents to provide scientific advice on the impacts of programs, projects, and proposals on aquatic species and habitats.\u00a0<\/li>\n
- Providing leadership and guidance to direct reports on work processes, procedures, and forward progression.\u00a0<\/li>\n
- Conducting outreach activities to disseminate information on nearshore habitat health through written reports and presentations at conferences and meetings.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/dd>\n
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Qualifications<\/h2>\n<\/dt>\n
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Required Qualifications:\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n
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- A Bachelor\u2019s degree with a major study in a natural science AND six years of professional research work experience in marine ecology or other related field;
OR an equivalent combination of education and\/or experience.
A Master\u2019s degree, without a PhD degree in a specialty field, will substitute for two years of the required experience, provided the field of major study was in marine ecology or another related field.
A Ph.D. degree will substitute for three years of the required experience, provided the field of major study was in marine ecology or another related field.<\/li>\n - Experience presenting scientific findings in written and oral formats to scientists and managers, and publication in peer-reviewed journals.<\/li>\n
- Experience in field data collection, especially in nearshore environments.<\/li>\n
- Experience with designing and implementing nearshore habitat research projects to assess the status and trends of abiotic and biotic resources.<\/li>\n
- Project management experience to include technical guidance of staff through all phases of scientific inquiry, including developing and maintaining project timelines, budgets, and deliverables.<\/li>\n
- Provide technical guidance in a manner accessible to land managers, stewardship specialists, planners, and decision makers.<\/li>\n
- Represent the program and agency on complex or controversial issues with other agencies, jurisdictions, or interest groups in a manner that is consistent with agency policies.<\/li>\n
- Familiarity with current literature describing methods and results of monitoring nearshore environments.<\/li>\n
- Knowledge of statistics, principles of experimental design, and understanding of univariate and multivariate statistics.<\/li>\n
- Knowledge of spatially explicit field data collection techniques, especially in remote environments.<\/li>\n
- Knowledge of intertidal biotic community and floating kelp ecology, and monitoring methods.<\/li>\n
- Knowledge of the principles and practice of aquatic resource management.<\/li>\n
- Accustomed to developing and maintaining collaborative working relationships, to build rapport and partner with academic institutions, local, state, and federal governmental agencies, tribes, and the public.<\/li>\n
- Accustomed to working constructively to develop a program that incorporates input from team members and addresses program goals, technical challenges and available resources.<\/li>\n
- Commitment to fostering and supporting an environment that honors diversity, equity, inclusion, and environmental justice practices.<\/li>\n
- Perform assigned duties in a manner consistent with applicable laws, regulations, and public records retention and requests are followed.<\/li>\n
- DNR Core Competencies:\n
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- Personal Accountability<\/li>\n
- Value Others<\/li>\n
- Compassionate Communication<\/li>\n
- Inspire Others<\/li>\n
- Commitment to Excellence<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nSpecial Requirements and Conditions of Employment:<\/strong>\n
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- Position is located primarily in the office, with regular field work. Required working conditions include the ability to meet the position schedule and travel requirements, and the ability to conduct field work by boat and on foot in all types of weather conditions.<\/li>\n
- Up to 8 consecutive days in travel status is expected, approximately 6-10 times per year. Position entails field work and occasional travel for meetings and conferences, typically in western Washington. Field work is conducted by boat, vehicle, or on foot.<\/li>\n
- A valid driver\u2019s 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.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nDesired Qualifications:<\/strong>\n
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- A PhD degree with specialty study in a natural science, AND six years of professional research work experience in marine ecology or other related field.<\/li>\n
- Experience with small boats and training in safe boating practices.<\/li>\n
- Working experience in local marine and estuarine waters, especially areas within Puget Sound.<\/li>\n
- Familiarity with shoreline management policies in Washington, including DNR\u2019s aquatic resource management responsibilities.<\/li>\n
- Familiarity with Geographic Information Systems, such as ArcGIS.<\/li>\n
- Ability to use spatially-linked geomorphic, hydrologic, and benthic survey data.<\/li>\n
- Familiarity with nearshore taxa (invertebrates, plants, and algae) in the Pacific Northwest.<\/li>\n
- Experience in remote sensing methods for assessing the status and trends of vegetated habitats, especially aerial and underwater videography data collection and post-processing.<\/li>\n
- Experienced with autonomous sensors for the collection of continuous environmental data.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nDon\u2019t let doubts stop you from applying for this position.<\/strong> 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>. 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\u2019t hesitate to apply!<\/dd>\n
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Supplemental Information<\/h2>\n<\/dt>\n
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Application Requirements:\u00a0<\/strong>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<\/a>.<\/p>\n
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- Apply online:\u00a0<\/strong>at www.careers.wa.gov (Click on the APPLY button above).<\/li>\n
- Letter of interest:\u00a0<\/strong>describing your specific qualifications for the position and the position required, desired, and special requirements.<\/li>\n
- Resume:\u00a0<\/strong>that details your experience and qualifications.<\/li>\n
- References:\u00a0<\/strong>References\u00a0<\/strong>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.<\/span><\/li>\n
- Important:\u00a0<\/strong>Do not attach any documents that include photos or private information (Social Security number, year of birth, etc.).<\/li>\n
- Complete all supplemental questions.<\/strong><\/li>\n
- Candidates who move forward in the recruitment process may be contacted via email at info@governmentjobs.com<\/a> 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.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nQuestions?<\/strong>\u00a0 Please contact Cynthia Catton at Cynthia.Catton@dnr.wa.gov<\/a> \/ (360) 485-2528 or email us at\u00a0DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov<\/a>.
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<\/a>. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through the\u00a0Washington Relay Service<\/a> by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384.
About the Department of Natural Resources<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0(DNR).\u00a0<\/strong>
At DNR, we approach our work through the lens of making Washington a better place environmentally and are dedicated to serving Washington\u2019s lands and communities through diversity, equity, and inclusion.\u00a0
Our Vision \u2013 <\/strong>Our actions ensure a future where Washington\u2019s lands, waters, and communities thrive.
Our Mission \u2013<\/strong>\u00a0Manage, sustain, and protect the health and productivity of Washington\u2019s lands and waters to meet the needs of present and future generations.
Our Core Values:<\/strong>\n- \n
- Safety and Well-Being \u2014Our top priority is the safety of the public and our employees.<\/li>\n
- Public Service \u2014We 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.<\/li>\n
- Innovation and Creative Problem-Solving \u2014 We solve our state\u2019s most pressing challenges through innovative thinking, dedication, and bold and creative vision.<\/li>\n
- Leadership and Teamwork \u2014We are committed to building leaders at all levels and building teams for success.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nDNR provides excellent benefits, a few of which include:<\/strong>\n
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- Commitment to organizational health and wellness<\/li>\n
- Work\/life balance<\/li>\n
- DNR Employee Resource Groups (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Council, Women\u2019s Employee Resource Group, Veterans Employee Resource Group, etc.)<\/li>\n
- Statewide Employee Business Resource Groups, visit here to learn more<\/a><\/li>\n
- Leadership that empowers and supports employees<\/li>\n
- Professional development opportunities<\/li>\n
- Educational and career development aid<\/li>\n
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness Eligibility<\/li>\n
- Opportunities to participate in wildland fire suppression assignments<\/li>\n
- 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<\/a> for more information.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/dd>\n
- Additional Information:<\/strong>
This recruitment may be extended and used to fill future similar vacancies for up to sixty (60) days.
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DNR does not use the E-Verify system. For more information, please visit\u00a0www.uscis.gov<\/a>.
Veterans wishing to claim Veteran\u2019s 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:\u00a0<\/strong>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\u00a0CareersHelp@des.wa.gov<\/a>.
Check us out on:\u00a0<\/strong>DNR\u2019s website<\/a> | Facebook<\/a> | Twitter<\/a> | Instagram<\/a> | YouTube<\/a> | WordPress<\/a>\n\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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- Employer<\/dt>\n
- State of Washington<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n<\/div>\n
- Letter of interest:\u00a0<\/strong>describing your specific qualifications for the position and the position required, desired, and special requirements.<\/li>\n
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- Benefits<\/a><\/li>\n