Natural Areas Steward, Agricultural Research Technologist

Employer
Washington State Department of Natural Resources
Job Description, Responsibilities and Required Qualifications or Skills

Natural Areas Steward, Agricultural Research Technologist 2
Work Hours and Partial Telework flexibility may be available and considered
Salary: $3,477.00 - $4,632.00 Monthly

Review of applications is ongoing. We reserve the right to make a hiring decision or close this recruitment at any time after 10/17/25. It is in your best interest to submit materials as soon as possible.
 

Responsibilities:

  • Implement invasive species control and surveys on DNR-owned natural areas, including herbicide applications, mowing, and mechanical removal
  • Coordinate and implement restoration practices on natural areas, including native seed collection, planting, prescribed fire fuel break preparations, and falling small trees
  • Participate in prescribed burns per National Wildfire Coordinating Group qualifications
  • Use GIS and GPS technology to map natural area features and treatments
  • Monitor ecological features and effects of land and resource management actions, including identifying plants using a technical key, recording data in plots, and conducting botanical and faunal surveys.

 

Required Qualifications: 
 

  • A bachelor’s degree with a major study in conservation biology, botany, plant ecology, restoration ecology, or a closely related field; 
    OR an equivalent combination of education and/or experience.
  • One year of technical experience in a closely related natural resource field. This must include six months of experience implementing habitat restoration or invasive plant control projects.
  • Experience with invasive species control, including application of commercial herbicides, and an understanding of how to choose the best method in various scenarios.
  • Knowledge of ecological principles, and an understanding of ecosystem processes – including those regarding ecosystems of western Washington.
  • Knowledge of ecological field data collection techniques.
  • Knowledge of how to keep records and take field notes.
  • Ability to effectively and efficiently oversee volunteers to accomplish program goals.
  • Commitment to fostering and supporting an environment that honors diversity, equity, inclusion, and environmental justice practices.
Job Field:
Forestry
Parks, Recreation and Tourism
Water and Soil Resources
Job Type:
Full Time
Location Detail:
Olympia, WA
Salary:
$41,724.00 - $55,584.00 Annually
Job Benefits:

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.
Application Deadline:
Link to Full Job Posting:
https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/washington/jobs/5100923/natural-areas-st…

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