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Alluvial Fan Mapping Lead Geologist, Natural Resource Scientist 3 (NRSci3)

State of Washington

State of Washington

Thurston County, WA, USA
USD 6,107-8,210 / month
Posted on Oct 14, 2025

Description



Alluvial Fan Mapping Lead Geologist, Natural Resource Scientist 3 (NRSci3)
Recruitment #2025-10-P496
Full-time, Project, Represented position (WFSE)
Anticipated Project is January 2026-June 2027
Location: Natural Resources Building- Olympia, WA
Work Hours and Partial Telework flexibility may be available and considered
Salary: $6,107.00 - $8,210.00 Monthly

Review of applications is ongoing. We reserve the right to make a hiring decision or close this recruitment at any time after 10/20/25. 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) has an exciting opportunity within our Washington Geological Survey as an Alluvial Fan Mapping Project Lead.

The Washington Geological Survey is looking for a passionate geologist to join our Post-Wildfire Debris Flow Program. If you're enthusiastic about debris flow hazards, geomorphology, and GIS mapping, this is your chance to make a real impact. We’re launching a major alluvial fan mapping project across the stunning landscapes of the Central Cascades and Northeast Washington- and we need another teammate to get it done! This 18-month project position will focus on leading the GIS mapping, supervising two alluvial fan mappers, and planning the field verification efforts. Are you excited by the intersection of earth science and community safety? Do you thrive in leadership roles and enjoy mentoring a team? If so, you’re exactly who we're looking for. Come help us shape the future of hazard resilience in Washington—apply now and be part of something great!

Duties

Responsibilities:

  • Serves as a senior-level mapper who maps alluvial fans and related geomorphic interpretation for use in geologic hazard maps.
  • Uses aerial imagery, lidar and other remotely sensed products in ArcGIS Pro to identify debris flow hazards.
  • Manages several grant-funded alluvial fan mapping projects.
  • As the team lead of alluvial fan inventory projects, this position is responsible for mapping alluvial fans and managing the team’s data and products.
  • Manages project timelines, work scope, and mapping standards. They are responsible for reviewing work of program staff for professional standards. They provide coaching and mentoring to junior geologists.
  • Assigns work, plan the work of their team to maintain timeframes necessary to achieve goals, and help staff stay on track.
  • Collaborates on investigating post-fire debris flow related questions, such as triggering rainfall intensities, risk to infrastructure from debris flows, and will help their colleagues and direct reports develop a debris flow modeling framework.
  • Work well as part of a highly collaborative team to complete project objectives.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

  • A Bachelor of Science degree in an earth science field AND five years of professional experience in geology assessing and identifying debris flow hazards from remote sensing and field assessments;
    OR an equivalent combination of education and/or experience.
  • Experience in collecting, compiling, managing, and digitizing geospatial and tabular data in the interpretation of lidar and aerial imagery.
  • Proficiency in ArcGIS, demonstrated by experience and (or) coursework.
  • Experience completing and leading field investigations in a variety of topographic and environmental settings including rugged, uneven terrain.
  • Excellent verbal communication skills particularly regarding difficult topics.
  • 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:
  • A Washington Geologist License (LG) is required per RCW 18.220.020 as outlined in the individual performance development plan.
  • 80% office, 20% field in rugged terrain. May be required to traverse over uneven terrain or on water, during all weather conditions.
  • Occasional travel with overnight stays.
  • A valid driver’s license and have two years of driving experience. Additionally, DNR requires state drivers 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.
Desired Qualifications:
  • A Master of Science or PhD in an earth science field.
  • Experience with project management.
  • Experience leading a team, and/or supervisory experience.
  • Competent in assessing and mapping post-fire hazards, including debris flows.
  • Experience in modeling physical process on the earth’s surface. For example: debris flows, diffusive processes, rate-state processes, probabilistic hazards.
  • Experience in deploying, maintaining, and servicing telemetered campaign and permanent field instruments.
  • Experience in Python (or another programming language) with successful application to GIS and (or) instrumentation.
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, and 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 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, to include 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 Nancy Calhoun at nancy.calhoun@dnr.wa.gov/360.819.0503 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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