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Coast District Recreation Specialist, Natural Resource Specialist 1 (NRS1)

State of Washington

State of Washington

Forks, WA, USA
USD 3,811-5,117 / month
Posted on Sep 27, 2025

Description



Coast District Recreation Specialist, Natural Resource Specialist 1 (NRS1)
Recruitment #2025-9-A181
Full-time, Permanent, Represented position (WPEA)
Location: Olympic Region- Forks, WA

Salary: $3,811.00 - $5,117.00 Monthly

Want to join something GREAT and make a difference?
The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has an exciting opportunity within our Olympic Region as a Coast District Recreation Specialist, Natural Resource Specialist 1 (NRS1).

Are you interested in maintaining and building recreational facilities on public land on the Olympic Peninsula? DNR is seeking a Recreation Specialist to help our team provide diverse, safe, and high-quality recreational opportunities that foster community engagement, promote a strong sense of environmental stewardship, and enrich the quality of life in Washington. If you love working outdoors, appreciate a remote natural environment, enjoy providing recreational opportunities to the public, and have a proven ability to work alone or as part of a small team, then this is the job for you. This position will be the primary field lead for the implementation of recreation-related management activities, including facility and trail maintenance and construction, education, and enforcement of recreation-related rules and volunteer program efforts. This position is highly visible to the public and acts as the main point of contact for user groups, volunteers, and members of the public seeking information and/or assistance. This position will be responsible for the day-to-day maintenance and operation of all designated recreation facilities in the Coast District, as well as the implementation of capital improvement projects.

Duties

Responsibilities:

  • Monitor all designated trails and facilities to identify needed maintenance projects.
  • Conduct on-the-ground implementation of maintenance and operations projects – including project development and compliance.
  • Collaborate with the Recreation Coordinator to analyze and prioritize maintenance plans and give guidance to seasonal/project employees, contractors, volunteers, and work crews, including offender crews.
  • Operate and maintain a state-issued pick-up truck and multiple trailers. Operate and maintain a variety of tools and equipment, including, but not limited to, chainsaws, small backhoe, generator, weed eaters/brush cutters, pole saw, carpentry equipment, and various other power tools.
  • Work with the Recreation Coordinator and Natural Resource Police Officer (NRPO) to implement the Region's public use education and enforcement program.
  • Maintain limited police powers qualifications related to recreation on DNR-managed lands. Responsible for issuing warnings and citations as needed.
  • Assist in the development, planning, and implementation of volunteer work parties, organized events, and user group meetings.
  • Participate in multi-agency/user group events as needed.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

  • One year of professional experience working in the field for a natural resource agency or organization that manages public land for multiple uses.
  • Experience operating and performing routine maintenance on chainsaws, quads, motorcycles, mini excavators, and other light equipment common to trail and facility maintenance and repairs.
  • Strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills as demonstrated by the ability to resolve conflicts, write effectively, and communicate with diverse groups, both internal and external.
  • Ability to work well both independently and as part of a team.
  • 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:
  • Must be able to operate an ORV, ATV, and mountain bike on intermediate to difficult trail terrain.
  • Must pass the Department ATV training test.
  • Must be able to pass Basic Enforcement Training, including a criminal background check.
  • This position is primarily an independent field position, with approximately 90% of the time spent in the field and 10% in the office. An individual must be able to traverse and drive in uneven, rugged terrain under all weather conditions. The position requires sustained vehicle operation (2-4+ hours) and outdoor work (4 - 6+ hours) in adverse weather conditions. The position will require operating a four-wheel drive vehicle on highway and forest roads, trail hiking, mountain biking, and operating ORVs on trails in moderate to difficult terrain.
  • This position requires some traveling alone between work/field sites in the region. Travel and overnight stays are required for training. During some training assignments, lodging and meals may be provided in a camp and/or dormitory environment.
  • A valid driver’s 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 requirements for 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.
Desired Qualifications:
  • A bachelor’s degree in natural resources or an area of specialty and two years of professional experience in a natural resource program area.
  • Experience with education and enforcement in a natural resource program.
  • ORV, equine, and mountain bike riding skills, as well as strong outdoor skills.
  • Experience working with volunteers or as a volunteer.
Don’t let doubts stop you from applying for this position. 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 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: 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.

  • 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.
  • 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 Eric Steffen at eric.steffen@dnr.wa.gov/360-640-3266 or email 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 VisionOur 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 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 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 before 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 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 CareersHelp@des.wa.gov.

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