Responsibilities:
Provides leadership in Washington for the forest genetics research cooperatives, with emphasis on the Douglas-fir tree breeding and testing program.

• Represents DNR in regional forest genetics research cooperatives and other forums related to forest genetics.
• 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.
• Develops test installation and maintenance procedures, and trains and supervises staff in this work.

• Determines for which species and areas seed orchards will be established.
• Works cooperatively with other landowners to support adequate regional seed production and supply.
• Analyzes results from research trials to decide which trees to include in seed orchards.
• Designs orchard layout and composition.
• Conducts surveys and analyzes results from trials to inform innovation of new techniques and methods for improving yields and quality.
• Trains and oversees staff in orchard management techniques.

• Develops experimental designs and implements research studies to evaluate potential changes to seed source choices to adjust to climate change.
• Participates both internally and externally in multidisciplinary efforts to develop effective adaptation strategies.
• Decides upon adjustments to the genetics program needed to implement adaptation strategies.

• Makes decisions about orchard composition to ensure sufficient conservation of genetic diversity to support the agency’s mission.
• Monitors the integrity of the Gene Pool Reserve (GPR) system.
• Considers additional approaches to support gene conservation across the agency’s entire forested land base.

• Assists with determining structure and guidelines for managing seed source choices.
• Provides advice regarding seed transfer when seedling availability precludes using preferred choices.
• Advises upper managers when questions come up related to genetics and seed source.
• Gives presentations on forest genetics to both internal and external audiences.

Required Qualifications:

• Master’s 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;
  OR an equivalent combination of education and/or experience.
• Experience with experimental design, measurement, and analysis of research results related to forest genetics and seed production.
• Experience managing data, analyzing data, and/or scripting using MS Access, R, SAS, Python, or other software.
• Operational experience with forest regeneration.

• Reason logically, draw valid conclusions, and make recommendations.
• Communicate ideas clearly and effectively through speaking and writing.
• Commitment to fostering and supporting an environment that honors diversity, equity, inclusion, and environmental justice practices.
• Perform assigned duties in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, and public records retention requirements, and ensure requests for public records are followed.
• DNR Core Competencies:
  • Personal Accountability
  • Value Others
  • Compassionate Communication
  • Inspire Others
  • Commitment to Excellence
    
    

• 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.
• Occasional overnight travel throughout the state can be frequent during peak seasons.
• A current, 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 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.

• Three years of supervisory experience, ideally including supervision of first-line supervisors.
• Familiarity with forest types and practices common in the Pacific Northwest.
• 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.
• A Washington state pesticide handler’s license.

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.

• 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 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.