$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
2026-5-2043-03992<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Dept. of Natural Resources<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
05\/11\/2026<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
5\/31\/2026 11:59 PM Pacific<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\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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![\"Working](\"https:\/\/secure.neogov.com\/images\/AgencyImages\/jobposting\/1924\/jobpostings\/image\/20250708133339_Job%20Posting%20Banner%20-%20Updated%20General.png\")
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\nState Forest Geneticist, Natural Resource Scientist 4 (NRSci4)<\/strong>
Recruitment #2026-5-2043
Full-time, Permanent, Represented position (WFSE)
Location: Meridian Seed Orchard- Olympia, WA
<\/strong><\/div>\nWork Hours flexibility may be available and considered<\/strong>
Relocation Compensation may be available and considered
Salary: $7,443.00 – $10,004.00 Monthly<\/strong>
Review of applications is ongoing.\u00a0<\/strong>We reserve the right to make a hiring decision or close this recruitment at any time after 5\/18\/26. It is in your best interest to submit materials as soon as possible.
Want to join something GREAT and make a difference?<\/strong>
The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has an exciting opportunity within our Forest Resources Division as the\u00a0State Forest Geneticist.<\/strong>\u00a0
Is helping to maintain healthy forests that are both productive and diverse important to you? Do you enjoy collaborating with people from other organizations? Are you good at adapting research results and technical information into operational practices? Do you want to work in an environment where innovation and creative problem-solving are encouraged? If so, then this is the job for you!\u00a0
The Forest Geneticist works closely with our Seed Center and Nursery to ensure a reliable and genetically appropriate seed supply for State forests. The position provides leadership within the Department on the management of forest genetic resources, especially as it relates to reforestation decisions. As adaptation to climate change becomes a larger focus, this work increasingly requires regional collaboration across administrative boundaries. The Department manages 2.1 million acres of State forest land, which includes a wide variety of forest types. The position directly supervises 4 full-time employees while leading a staff of 8.\n\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/dd>\n
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Duties<\/h2>\n<\/dt>\n
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Responsibilities:<\/strong>
Provides leadership in Washington for the forest genetics research cooperatives, with emphasis on the Douglas-fir tree breeding and testing program.<\/p>\n- \n
- Represents DNR in regional forest genetics research cooperatives and other forums related to forest genetics.<\/li>\n
- Develops testing goals (tree species and areas) and experimental parameters (what traits will be emphasized and measured) and builds support among cooperators for these decisions.<\/li>\n
- Develops test installation and maintenance procedures, and trains and supervises staff in this work.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nDevelops and maintains seed orchard capacity for species and seed zones needed to support DNR\u2019s operational planting program.\n
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- Determines for which species and areas seed orchards will be established.<\/li>\n
- Works cooperatively with other landowners to support adequate regional seed production and supply.<\/li>\n
- Analyzes results from research trials to decide which trees to include in seed orchards.<\/li>\n
- Designs orchard layout and composition.<\/li>\n
- Conducts surveys and analyzes results from trials to inform innovation of new techniques and methods for improving yields and quality.<\/li>\n
- Trains and oversees staff in orchard management techniques.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nDevelops climate change adaptation strategies relevant to DNR\u2019s reforestation operations.\n
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- Develops experimental designs and implements research studies to evaluate potential changes to seed source choices to adjust to climate change.<\/li>\n
- Participates both internally and externally in multidisciplinary efforts to develop effective adaptation strategies.<\/li>\n
- Decides upon adjustments to the genetics program needed to implement adaptation strategies.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nDevises and implements the gene conservation strategy for forest trees on State Lands.\n
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- Makes decisions about orchard composition to ensure sufficient conservation of genetic diversity to support the agency\u2019s mission.<\/li>\n
- Monitors the integrity of the Gene Pool Reserve (GPR) system.<\/li>\n
- Considers additional approaches to support gene conservation across the agency\u2019s entire forested land base.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nConsults with DNR staff of all levels and external partners on questions related to forest genetics and seed source management.\n
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- Assists with determining structure and guidelines for managing seed source choices.<\/li>\n
- Provides advice regarding seed transfer when seedling availability precludes using preferred choices.<\/li>\n
- Advises upper managers when questions come up related to genetics and seed source.<\/li>\n
- Gives presentations on forest genetics to both internal and external audiences.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nDevelops biennial budget, approves expenditures, and monitors spending to ensure adherence to approved budget.
Hires, trains, supervises, and evaluates direct reports.\n\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/dd>\n
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Qualifications<\/h2>\n<\/dt>\n
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Required Qualifications:\u00a0
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- Master\u2019s degree in forest genetics or silviculture, with graduate-level coursework in forest genetics and tree breeding, AND (4) four years of professional experience working in a forest genetics breeding and testing program or a forest seed orchard;\u00a0
OR an equivalent combination of education and\/or experience.<\/li>\n - Experience with experimental design, measurement, and analysis of research results related to forest genetics and seed production.<\/li>\n
- Experience managing data, analyzing data, and\/or scripting using MS Access, R, SAS, Python, or other software.<\/li>\n
- Operational experience with forest regeneration.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nRequired Competencies:\u00a0<\/strong><\/div>\n
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- Reason logically, draw valid conclusions, and make recommendations.<\/li>\n
- Communicate ideas clearly and effectively through speaking and writing.<\/li>\n
- Commitment to fostering and supporting an environment that honors diversity, equity, inclusion, and environmental justice practices.<\/li>\n
- Perform assigned duties in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, and public records retention requirements, and ensure requests for public records 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- \n
- This position works in multiple settings: office, forested sites, orchard blocks, and greenhouses. Ability to work alone in remote locations and in inclement weather. Arduous physical tasks, including hiking long distances on difficult terrain, sometimes carrying heavy objects.<\/li>\n
- Occasional overnight travel throughout the state can be frequent during peak seasons.<\/li>\n
- A current, 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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- Three years of supervisory experience, ideally including supervision of first-line supervisors.<\/li>\n
- Familiarity with forest types and practices common in the Pacific Northwest.<\/li>\n
- PhD in forest genetics or silviculture, ideally with graduate-level coursework in forest genetics and tree breeding. A PhD counts for 2 years of the required experience.<\/li>\n
- A Washington state pesticide handler\u2019s license.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nDon\u2019t let doubts stop you from applying for this position.\u00a0<\/strong>At DNR, we value diversity and inclusion in our organization, and we are looking for the best person for the job. We are invested in acquiring the best and most innovative candidate for the job, and that candidate may be one from a less traditional background. It is important you consider and clearly communicate within your application materials how your education, volunteer work, life skills, and experience transfer to this position and the qualifications. If you have any questions about the qualifications, please contact us at DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov<\/a>. Don\u2019t hesitate to apply!\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 Calvin Ohlson-Kiehn at calvin.ohlson-kiehn@dnr.wa.gov<\/a>\/(360-701-1452 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>\nAdditional 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 DD214 (Member 4 long-form copy), NGB 22, or a USDVA signed verification of service letter. Please black out all PII (personally identifiable information) data, such as social security numbers. 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> |\u00a0WordPress<\/a>![\"WordPress\"](\"https:\/\/secure.neogov.com\/images\/AgencyImages\/jobposting\/1924\/jobpostings\/image\/20260323062513_YesVets-Main-decal_3x.png\")
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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