Environmental Planner 4 (EP4) at State of Washington – Olympia, Washington

Work Hours and Partial Telework flexibility may be available and considered
Salary: $6,259.00 - $8,415.00 Monthly

Review of applications is ongoing. We reserve the right to make a hiring decision or close this recruitment at any time after 08/26/2025. It is in your best interest to submit materials as soon as possible.

Want to join something GREAT and make a difference?
The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is looking for an Environmental Planner 4 to help shape the future of Washington’s forests. This is a great opportunity to contribute to sustainable forest management and support vital public revenue by leading key environmental planning efforts—including preparing Environmental Impact Statements (EIS), conducting Environmental Justice Assessments, and developing forest management alternatives for the Sustainable Harvest Calculation. Join a passionate team making a real impact on our state’s natural resources!
Responsibilities:

• Serve as Environmental Justice (EJ) Project Manager, leading engagement strategies and integrating EJ into agency planning efforts.
• Prepare and update Environmental Justice Assessments (EJAs), analyzing impacts on overburdened communities, vulnerable populations, and Tribes.
• Coordinate and facilitate public and Tribal engagement, ensuring accessible and inclusive communication.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to support the Sustainable Harvest Calculation and related initiatives.
• Lead complex environmental planning projects, including environmental impact analysis and development of forest management alternatives.
• Provide technical guidance and policy support related to Environmental Justice and forest planning processes.
• Communicate findings and project updates to internal leadership, partners, and the public.

Required Qualifications:

• A Bachelor’s degree with a major study in natural resources (e.g., natural resource planning, forestry, landscape ecology, fire science, wildlife biology), public policy and administration with an environmental emphasis, geography, or a closely related field;
  AND Five (5) years of professional work experience in natural resources planning, forest ecology, silviculture, fire science, landscape ecology, forest management, wildlife management, public policy and administration, geography, or a closely related field relying on the required position knowledge, skills, abilities, and behaviors;
  OR an equivalent combination of education and/or experience.
• Experience with planning and project management principles, methods, and techniques related to natural resources management.
• Experience writing and translating complex technical, policy, and land management concepts for average readers.
• Experience working with the State Environmental Protection Act and Environmental Impact Statement process.
• Experience with ArcGIS and related database software to map and analyze natural resource data.
• Expert verbal and written communication skills, including both the ability to receive/interpret complex information, as well as the ability to convey complex information to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Accustomed to using standard word processing software and tools, as well as data management and analysis skills. Competency utilizing MS PowerPoint, MS Excel, and MS Word.
• Familiarity with identifying, maintaining, and improving internal and external key relationships.
• 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 assigned duty station is the Natural Resources Building in Olympia; the majority of time (95%) will be spent indoors. The building environment consists of a cubicle workstation with a computer in an open area that is subject to loud noises from nearby conversations, telephones, ventilation, and “white noise”. Occasionally (5% or less), time may be spent in the various regions participating in site visits (which may include field site settings).
• The position requires a minimal amount of travel (5% or less) from Olympia to one of the six regions of the state or to meeting locations throughout the state. Overnight travel is required in this position when visiting some region offices and the field due to long travel distances. Agency vehicles are available for use.

Desired Qualifications:

• Master’s or doctorate in natural resources (e.g., natural resource planning, forestry, landscape ecology, fire science, wildlife biology), public policy and administration with an environmental emphasis, geography, or a closely related field.
• At least six (6) months or more of experience as an environmental planner 4.
• Strong understanding of the natural resources regulatory environment over the Uplands Program at the Department of Natural Resources, including: DNR Habitat Conservation Plan, Policy for Sustainable Forests, and the State Environmental Policy Act. Ability to interpret and apply agency policy.
• Supervisory experience.
• General knowledge of social/political dynamics that influence resource plan development.
• Demonstrated ability to think creatively, to take initiative, and to function effectively and responsibly with little supervision in a team setting.
• Ability to understand and implement the business needs of the state land programs.
• Experience writing, reviewing, and editing EIS documents.

Don’t let doubts stop you from applying for this position. If you have any questions about the required qualifications or how your experience relates to them, please contact us at DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov. A note to potential candidates: Studies have shown that women, trans, non-binary, Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) are less likely to apply for jobs unless they feel they meet every qualification as described in a job description. We value diversity and inclusion in our organization, and we are looking for the best person for the job. Don’t hesitate to apply!
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: 3-5 professional references with current telephone numbers, to include your 2 most recent supervisors. You may attach a document, use the References text field in the online application, or include it with your resume.
• 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 Sharon Lumbantobing at Sharon.Lumbantobing@dnr.wa.gov / (564) 233-9701 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 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 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 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.

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