Work Hours and Partial Telework flexibility may be available and considered
Relocation Compensation may be available and considered
Salary: $6,705.00 - $9,021.00

Review of applications is ongoing. We reserve the right to make a hiring decision or close this recruitment at any time after 5/6/25. It is in your best interest to submit materials as soon as possible.

Want to join something GREAT and make a difference?
The Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is seeking a leader and strategic thinker to serve as the Federal Lands Operations Program Manager within our Forest Resilience Division. This position plays a critical statewide role in the implementation of forest, rangeland, and watershed restoration activities on federal lands, primarily through the use of the Good Neighbor Authority (GNA), with multiple federal partners, including the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) and Bureau of Land Management (BLM). As the principal operations lead for federal lands project work, the Operations Manager will drive long-term program vision, develop and execute strategic goals, and ensure successful, legally compliant restoration outcomes aligned with state and federal priorities.

You will supervise a team of Federal Lands District Managers and work with DNR region and division staff to develop annual and biennial work plans, track progress toward programmatic goals, and oversee the operational success of the program of work. This position coordinates and works closely with the Federal Lands Environmental Planning Manager and Federal Lands Lead Engineer, as part of a core management team overseeing the day-to-day needs of the Operations Program. This position also serves as a key advisor to the Federal Lands Assistant Division Manager and Forest Resilience Division Manager, providing input and recommendations on section and program improvements, and serves as a proxy for the Assistant Division Manager, as necessary.

In this role, you will oversee the full lifecycle of project implementation—from planning and coordination through execution and compliance—for a diverse portfolio of restoration projects across Washington. This position requires technical expertise in state and federal timber sale and non-commercial restoration projects, including a thorough knowledge of contracts, dispute resolution, environmental protection and mitigation measures, federal agreements, and budgeting. This position directly supports field operations and guides projects through state and federal compliance processes. Working with Section Program Managers and other internal experts, this position ensures each project is on track, efficient, and effective. Additionally, you will monitor evolving legislation, ensure program and staff compliance with changing legal requirements, and create training and guidance materials. Your leadership will also help enhance program efficiency, elevate interagency relationships, and inform strategic decision-making across the Forest Resilience Division.

This is a high-impact role for a natural resource professional who is passionate about landscape-scale forest health, adept in interagency coordination, and committed to innovation in public land restoration. As a central figure representing DNR in both state and national forums, you will frequently collaborate with federal land management agencies, lead public engagement efforts, and ensure restoration work supports national strategies, state-level targets, and long-term ecological resilience. If you’re ready to lead a team working at the heart of Washington’s forest restoration mission, we invite you to apply and help shape the future of our federal lands.
Responsibilities:

• Lead Operational coordination and implementation for restoration projects on federal lands, primarily through Good Neighbor Authority (GNA) agreements and other federal partnerships and mechanisms.
• Supervise and provide guidance to District Managers in the planning, implementation, and administration of restoration projects, ensuring alignment with statewide program goals and standards.
• Oversee end-to-end project lifecycle management, from planning and contract development to field operations, compliance, and reporting.
• Develop and implement long-term vision and operational strategies for the Federal Lands Operations Program, aligning with state and federal restoration goals.
• Serve as the principal liaison and subject matter expert on NEPA-related environmental implementation documents and restoration activities, engaging regularly with USFS, BLM, and other federal partners.
• Manage program budgets and perform financial planning, including cost estimation, federal agreement development, and oversight of public contracts in compliance with agency and federal requirements.
• Facilitate internal and external workflows across divisions and agencies to ensure effective and timely implementation of restoration projects statewide.
• Provide policy guidance and training to staff on evolving state and federal regulations, ensuring compliance and operational readiness.
• Represent the department at public and interagency forums, fostering collaboration and delivering exceptional service to partners and the general public.

Education requirement updated to include equivalent combination of education and/or experience as of 5/19.
Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree (or greater) in Forestry, Natural Resources, or related field.
  OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• (7) Seven years of professional experience in natural resources, biological sciences, land use, urban, environmental planning, and/or management, which includes a minimum of 3+ three years of demonstrated application of theory and principles of Good Neighbor Authority.
• (5) Five years of demonstrated experience applying theory, policy, principles, and practices of the forestry profession, preferably in the Northwestern United States (all aspects of commercial harvest operations, contract design and administrations service contract operations, program planning including staffing resource and financial management principles, application of procedures and policies).
• (2) Two or more years of Supervisory Experience.
• (2) Two years of experience in strategic and operational program development, including official development of policies and procedures, fiscal and budget design, and creation of state-wide management plans.
• (2) Two years of experience with interstate and interagency coordination and consultation on natural resource-related policy and environmental planning.
• Demonstrated history of positive, responsive, cooperative, and collaborative interaction with the public and other professionals (both inter-organizational and interdisciplinary).
• Knowledge of planning principles associated with forest land management planning, planning and stewardship techniques, associated environmental laws, policies, and programs at the state and federal levels.
• Knowledge of methods and objectives of natural resource planning.
• 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:

• This position is based out of Olympia, WA, and the Natural Resource Building, and is authorized to telecommute under a current agency telework agreement policy.
• Work is performed primarily in an office setting and other meeting locations or field environments. Field work may require walking over steep and rugged terrain and in inclement weather.
• Position requires travel for meetings and field visits. This requires travel to regions, national forests, and other locations statewide. Interstate travel may be required at times.
• A valid, unrestricted driver’s license and two years of driving experience. 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:

• Master’s degree (or greater) in Forestry, Natural Resources, or related field.
• (5) Five years of professional experience in natural resources, biological sciences, land use, urban, environmental planning, and/or management.
• Advanced knowledge of GNA and 4+ years of experience drafting and implementing projects under Supplemental Project Agreement,s including commercial harvest projects, non-commercial restoration projects such as aquatic organism passage and habitat design, hazardous fuels reduction, bridge design, transportation
  system maintenance, invasive species management, terrestrial wildlife habitat design, and any other restoration projects typically accomplished on federal, state, or private landscapes.
• Working Knowledge of:
  • Advanced environmental planning principles, techniques, current trends, environmental laws, policies, and programs concerning all phases of Federal and State resource development;
  • Governmental administrative structure at the Federal, state, and local levels;
  • Current and historical environmental, social, and other challenges affecting the development of local, federal, and State environmental resource programs;
  • Current and historical NEPA process and requirements;
  • Methods and objectives of urban and natural resources planning.
• Ability to:
  • Accept responsibility for assigned tasks and activities;
  • Coalesce and develop a broad array of independent work plans and long-range work plans, think conceptually, observe and interpret trends, analyze data, identify key relationships, and draw logical conclusions
  • Maintain effective working relationships with stakeholders, agency partners, and other relevant groups engaged in federal land management ;
  • Provide a consistent message and a positive attitude about the program’s development and program projects.
  • Interpret federal policy and procedures;
  • Frequently communicate with federal employees through their agency's policies and procedures;
  • Address large groups and write effectively.
  • Work independently or as part of a team on assigned tasks.
• A demonstrated knowledge of federal policies and procedures implemented under the USFS and other federal agencies, including the National Environmental Planning Act (NEPA), the Agricultural Act of 2014 (2014 U.S. Farm Bill), and other federal policies typically associated with the implementation and planning of federal projects.

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 Trevor McConchie at trevor.mcconchie@dnr.wa.gov/ 360-688-0321 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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