Aquatic Resource Coordinator (3 positions)

Job Description:

Are you experienced in natural resources and passionate about wetlands and waterways? Apply to be one of our next Aquatic Resource Coordinators (Natural Resource Specialist 3) by August 4, 2025! There are 3 full-time positions; 2 permanent positions and 1 limited duration position, which is expected to last 1 year with the possibility to extend.  Current state of Oregon employees are encouraged to apply for the limited duration position as a job rotation by including permission from their current supervisor. These positions are eligible for a hybrid remote schedule based out of our Salem office, with in-office days 2 times a week for the first six weeks and then 2-3 times per month for the duration of the position.  The successful candidate must be able to travel on site visits within Oregon on short notice and, within six months of hiring, live within a reasonable commuting distance to the Salem office.  

Making a Difference for Oregon. The Department of State Lands manages the lands that help fund our public schools and protects the state’s waterways and wetlands for the many benefits they provide. Our stewardship ensures vital natural and financial resources contribute to a vibrant, healthy Oregon now and forever. The DSL team makes a difference for Oregonians every day. As our Aquatic Resource Coordinator (Natural Resource Specialist 3), you will too.

The primary purpose of this position is to represent the regulatory program of the Department of State Lands. This includes issuing Removal-Fill Permits, reviewing monitoring reports for compensatory mitigation, and conducting compliance for authorized and unauthorized activities.

Working Conditions

The successful candidate will work in an office setting; however, fieldwork and travel to remote locations are essential functions of the position. Work site visits may involve walking on uneven terrain or on wet muddy ground without pathways in all types of weather. Overnight stays and/or extended work hours can be expected along with exposure to inclement weather and difficult road conditions. Visits to on-site locations may be by vehicle, watercraft, or on foot.

What You Will Be Doing

As an Aquatic Resource Coordinator, you will have the opportunity to:

• Review, coordinate, and process applications including mitigation plans; prepare complex removal-fill permits.
• Explain and interpret laws, rules, regulations, policies, and procedures for the public, consultants, stakeholders, legislatures, and other agency partners.
• Use your skills and experience in natural resources to aid in State jurisdictional determinations within waterways and wetlands.
• Conduct site visits and investigate complaints to ensure compliance with removal-fill laws and regulations.
• Negotiate resolutions with applicants, landowners, responsible parties and their representatives, state agencies, federal agencies, tribal agencies, and local governments.
• Conduct outreach to the public, legislators, beneficiaries, and other constituents on behalf of DSL and its programs to increase awareness, build support, and facilitate positive, continuing relationships.