Job Description

Conservation Easement Program Manager, Natural Resource Specialist 5 (NRS5) Recruitment #2026-4-7316 Full-time, Permanent, Represented position (WFSE) Location: Natural Resources Building - Olympia, WA Work Hours and Partial Telework flexibility may be available and considered Relocation Compensation may be available and considered Salary: $5,812.00 - $7,817.00 Monthly Review of applications is ongoing. We reserve the right to make a hiring decision or close this recruitment at any time after 04/09/2026. It is in your best interest to submit materials as soon as possible. Want to join something GREAT and make a difference? Are you interested in a career that allows you to serve small forest landowners by compensating them for economic impacts of the Forest Practices Rules? The Forest Practices Division of Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is looking for a Conservation Easement Program Manager to manage both the Forestry Riparian Easement Program (FREP) and the Rivers and Habitat Open Space Program (RHOSP). Responsibilities Serve as the agency expert for the implementation and interpretation of the requirements established in the Washington State Forest Practices Act and Rules regarding the Small Forest Landowner Conservation Easement Programs (FREP and RHOSP). Promote a positive team-based approach to problem solving and public service. Evaluate, identify and implement program improvements needed to achieve fair and consistent statewide implementation of the Small Forest Landowner Conservation Easement Programs. Provide expertise in program requirements: Serve as an expert on the application process of the statewide Conservation Easement Programs Provide oversight of conservation easement requirements to achieve established outcomes for the Statewide Programs Prepare and deliver annual reporting of program accomplishments Monitor work performed by staff and provide constructive feedback Train staff on their position duties, tasks, roles and accountability Oversee and provide guidance to the conservation easement the timber cruise program Provide technical assistance to landowners, Forest Regulation Division and other DNR staff regarding the Small Forest Landowner Conservation Easement Programs Oversees the evaluation of proposed land transactions, including legal descriptions, title reports, encumbrance documents, maps, photos, surveys, and any other property information required for determining the feasibility and value of a transaction Participate independently and with the Manager of the Small Forest Landowners Office in a variety of external meetings to share information and collaboratively resolve issues and problems Required Qualifications A Bachelor of Science degree in Forestry, Natural Resource Science/Management or closely related field; OR an equivalent combination of education and/or experience. 3 years of professional experience practicing forest management skills. 3 years of experience in a leadership role or experience leading technical staff. Experience and Competency with ESRI products and mapping software. Experience with general forest management theory and practices including timber cruising methods and procedures, as well as measurement and marketability by species, grade, and defect. Knowledge of current state forest practices statutes, rules, regulations, policies, procedures, and agency practices. Experience using software designed to gather and report timber cruise data. Experience collecting data using a Global Positioning System (GPS) in a forest setting. Experience creating a GIS database using mapping software. Experience in preparing and administering contracts. Experience in resource protection buffer layout in a forested setting. Required Competencies Accustomed to providing and explaining technical information to a wide variety of audiences. Accustomed to communicating clearly and concisely with staff at all organizational levels. Supervisory and team building skills. Competent to collect data using a Global Positioning System (GPS) in a forest setting. 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 The work will be split between work in an office/teleworking setting (80%) and work in the field (20%). Field work will be conducted in isolated, managed forests throughout Washington State; must be able to traverse by foot in uneven terrain safely and may be exposed to inclement weather, insects and wildlife. A vehicle will be available when needed. With approval from the Appointing Authority, tele-working for a portion of work time is an option. Travel will be required with a few overnight stays a month. Field work will be accessed by vehicle, often in remote areas on unpaved road surfaces. 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. Desired Qualifications Knowledge of delineation of Channel Migration Zones and critical habitat for state listed threatened or endangered species. Familiarity with land transaction process (title examination, valuations, closing process, etc.). Highly motivated toward accomplishing set goals. Convey messages clearly and persuasively. Experience working with small forest landowners. Don’t let doubts stop you from applying for this position. 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. Don’t hesitate to apply! Application Requirements Apply online: at (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 KelliAnne Ricks at kellianne.ricks@dnr.wa.gov / (360) 480-9702 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 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 Vision – Our 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 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 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. Check us out on: DNR’s website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube | WordPress #J-18808-Ljbffr

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