Straits District Recreation Coordinator, Natural Resource Specialist 2 (NRS2)

State of Washington
State of Washington

port angeles, wa, usa

USD 4,299-5,783 / month

Posted on Jun 13, 2026

Description



Straits Discrict Recreation Coordinator, Natural Resource Specialist 2 (NRS2)
Recruitment #2026-6-7590
Full-time, Permanent, Represented position (WPEA)
Location: Olympic Region - Port Angeles, WA.

Salary: $4,299-$5,783 Monthly, $51,588 - $69,396 Annually

Want to join something GREAT and make a difference?
The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has an exciting opportunity within our Olympic Region Recreation Department as a District Recreation Coordinator. The Recreation program’s vision is to “Provide diverse and high-quality recreational opportunities within Department of Natural Resources landscapes that foster community engagement, promote a strong sense of environmental stewardship, and enrich the quality of life in Washington”. This position will coordinate recreation related management activities in the Straits district including but not limited to trail and facility construction and maintenance; education and enforcement; data tracking; implementation and administration of grant and capital funded projects; as well as coordination of our volunteer program. This position is highly visible to the public and acts as a primary point of contact for many user groups, volunteers and visitors, as well as individuals seeking information and/or assistance. The incumbent will supervise a recreation specialist and occasionally lead volunteers and other contract field crews.

Duties

Responsibilities:

  • Overseeing and directing maintenance of recreation facilities and infrastructure on DNR managed lands in the Straits District by utilizing all available resources and through consultation with the Region Recreation Manager.
  • Evaluate, recommend, and address maintenance priorities at recreation sites by conducting field assessments to identify safety and environmental deficiencies.
  • Education and enforcement activities such as making public contacts, user safety, investigation and incident reporting. Position will be required to maintain limited police powers qualifications related to recreation on DNR managed lands.
  • Issue warnings and citations as needed.
  • Develop, plan and implement volunteer work parties, forest watch patrols, organized events and user group meetings.
  • Planning, assigning, scheduling, coordinating and monitoring work projects and staff.

Qualifications


Required Qualifications:
You must meet all the Required Qualifications and Competencies to be considered for this position. There are multiple pathways to meet qualifications, such as education, volunteer work, life skills, and experience. It is important that you clearly communicate in your application material that your skills align with the position and qualifications.

  • At least two years of professional work experience in the following:
    • Supporting and promoting recreation on public lands;
    • Maintaing or building public recreation trails and facilities;
    • Working collaboratively with volunteers, users, groups, and the general public on natural resource related recreation;
    • Supervising or evaluating employees;
    • OR equivalent combination of education and/or experience to meet the above qualifications.
Required Competencies:
  • 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.
  • Ability to plan and prioritize work.
  • Ability to use word processing, spreadsheet and presentation software.
  • 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 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.
  • Must be able to operate an ORV, ATV, and mountain bike on intermediate to difficult trail terrain and must pass the Department ATV training test.
  • Must be able to pass Basic Enforcement Training, and receive DNR Limited Commission Authority, during the probationary period.
  • Prior to hire, a background check, including criminal record history, will be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment, but will be considered in determining the applicant’s suitability and competence to perform in the position.
Desired Qualifications:
These qualifications are not required. However, it can help you stand out as a candidate and should be highlighted in your application material.
  • A Bachelor’s degree in natural resources or area of specialty and two years of professional experience in a natural resource program area.
  • At least one year experience working with forest-based land-use policy and recreation-use policy and practices such as: SEPA, Forest Practice Rules, and the HCP.
  • At least two years’ experience operating and performing routine maintenance on chainsaws, quads, motorcycles, mini excavators and other light equipment common to trail and facility maintenance and repairs.
  • Working knowledge of GPS system and basic GIS principles.
  • Experience with education and enforcement in a natural resource program.
  • ORV, equine, and mountain bike riding skills, as well as strong outdoor skills.
At DNR, we value diversity and inclusion and are committed to hiring the best candidate for the job. Don’t let doubts stop you from applying for this position. If you have any questions about the qualifications, please email us at DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov.

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.

  • Online Application: Apply at www.careers.wa.gov (Click on the APPLY button above). You must complete the entire online application to be considered for the position.
  • Cover Letter: Your cover letter should be tailored to this job posting. Be sure to highlight your qualifications for this role, directly address the requirements of the position, and explain why you’re the best candidate for the job.
  • Resume: Your resume should consist of your work history, education, volunteer work, life skills, experience, and any other relevant information associated with the position.
  • References: References are optional at the time your application is submitted. Finalists will be asked to provide a list of at least three (3) professional references, to include a current or most recent supervisor, along with telephone numbers.
  • Complete All Supplemental Questions: Answers to these questions will be used to evaluate candidates. Please provide comprehensive answers to all questions requiring a text response.
  • Important: Do not attach any documents that include photos or private information (Social Security Number, year of birth, etc.).
  • Email Communication: 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 these communications.

Questions? Please contact Justin Zarzeczny at justin.zarzeczny@dnr.wa.gov, (360)489-4986, 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 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: 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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