Washington State ESD
Western Natural Resource Conservation Services Conservation Planner, Environment
Washington State ESD, Seattle, Washington, us, 98127
Overview
Western Natural Resource Conservation Services Conservation Planner, Environmental Planner 3 (EP3) Recruitment #2025-9-P488 • Full-time, Project, Represented position (WFSE) • Anticipated project: November 2025 - August 2027 • 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: $5,666.00 - $7,622.00 Monthly. Review of applications is ongoing. We reserve the right to make a hiring decision or close this recruitment at any time after 9/10/25. It is in your best interest to submit materials as soon as possible. Want to join something GREAT and make a difference? This is one of three similar project positions with locations in Olympia, Colville, and Omak. You must apply separately to each location. The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has an exciting opportunity within our Forest Resilience Division as an
NRCS Conservation Planner
in Olympia. This role supports restoring forest ecosystems and assisting small private forest landowners in Washington State by delivering conservation on private lands and helping landowners access financial resources. The NRCS Conservation Planner works to expand technical and financial support for non-industrial small forest landowners within the state program. The Service Forestry Program delivers technical assistance and educational services to support proactive management of Washington’s small private forest lands. The program helps landowners assess resource conditions, identify problems and opportunities, determine financial assistance eligibility, assist with treatment implementation, and recommend management practices. It also educates landowners and assists with developing and implementing management plans to guide actions. NRCS is USDA’s primary land conservation agency. While NRCS is a federal program, it is administered locally with several Service Centers throughout Washington State. The Conservation Planner’s role is to establish and expand environmental planning tools by integrating NRCS technical and financial assistance for non-industrial small forest landowners. The Conservation Planner reports to the DNR’s Service Forestry Planner and coordinates with NRCS District Conservationist and other staff to provide conservation plans and enroll landowners in programs such as EQIP and CSP. The position serves as the subject matter expert for all NRCS programs and may provide education to DNR staff and external partners within the assigned work area. The role specializes in environmental planning for forest management, including watershed protection, insect/disease control, forest recreation, tree planting, wildlife habitat development, and fuels reduction or mitigation. Responsibilities
Develop new, long-lasting partnerships with landowners in the assigned service area interested in NRCS technical and financial assistance programs. Provide consultation and program guidance to division and region staff on NRCS programs (e.g., EQIP, CSP) and strategies to leverage resources to support environmental practices for forest health and resilience. Provide environmental planning consultative services for DNR or other forest landowner financial assistance programs; coordinate with and advise other forest health projects within the assigned area. Identify and engage priority landscapes and forest health priorities in service areas, aligning with DNR and NRCS strategic goals. Engage landowners who may be hesitant to participate in NRCS programs; work one-on-one to develop land management plans and identify conservation practices and eligibility for NRCS financial assistance (e.g., EQIP). Work with clients and staff to prepare and approve conservation plans; review and submit Forest Stewardship Management Plans or other plans; provide technical specifications for forest practices and silvicultural treatment, including pesticide/herbicide guidance when appropriate. Collaborate on Conservation Practice Inventories and Evaluations; develop implementation requirements for forest management practices and certify completion for clients. Provide program information and guidance on eligibility and required applications; verify Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) as needed. Assist in developing and collecting cost data; review program applications, contracts, and payment requests; monitor obligations and use data to inform environmental plans and progress toward objectives. Prepare and verify environmental contract administration documents from application through final payment. Assist in managing NRCS program contracts, including annual reviews and compliance documentation; communicate with participants. Track client eligibility processing with Farm Service Agency and other requirements per program manuals. Process contract documents, monitor contract timelines, and prepare modifications or reminders as needed. Recommend policy, procedure, and programmatic planning improvements for potential long-term integration of NRCS into state programs. Coordinate with DNR programs and external partners to develop outreach materials and present to landowners, professionals, loggers, and other audiences about NRCS services. Author informational articles for outreach (e.g., Forest Stewardship Notes, Landowner News) and, as requested, contribute to other publications. In coordination with regions, teach forestry topics for WSU Extension and other programs (e.g., Forest Owners Field Days, Family Forest Advisors Workshops, etc.). Provide certification inspections for the American Tree Farm Program. Develop reports as needed from data in various systems; enter and maintain NRCS documentation and inquiries. Participate in training and professional development to maintain credentials such as SAF Certified Forester and related certifications. Collaborate with staff to maintain updated knowledge of technology, data collection, and related duties. Required Qualifications
Bachelor of Science in natural resource planning, environmental planning, forestry, forestry education, biology, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or closely related field; minimum three years of professional forest management experience in the Pacific Northwest; or equivalent combination of education and experience. Experience in silvicultural and forest management practices in the Pacific Northwest (road design, timber planning, silviculture techniques, reforestation, harvest boundaries). Experience with forestry tools and GIS (ArcGIS Pro, Survey123, Field Maps) and other mapping tools. Strong communication and collaboration skills with public and professionals; proficiency with Microsoft Office and SharePoint. Ability to manage deadlines and priorities; commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and environmental justice. Ability to operate within applicable laws and public records requirements. DNR Core Competencies: Personal Accountability, Value Others, Compassionate Communication, Inspire Others, Commitment to Excellence. Special Requirements and Conditions of Employment
Work is indoors but includes field and outdoor settings; ability to walk on uneven terrain in forest environments year-round in various weather conditions is required. Travel within the assigned area and statewide may be required; multi-day trips and overnight stays (approx. 3–5 nights per month) may be necessary; ability to drive long distances is required. Must meet the federal OPM qualification standards for the General Natural Resources Management and Biological Sciences Series 0401; education must meet American Tree Farm Inspector requirements; valid Public Pest Control Consultant and/or Certified Tree Farm Inspector certifications or ability to obtain within 6 months of employment. NRCS Conservation Planner certification or ability to acquire; Level I within 6 months and Level III within 18 months of achieving Level I. Valid, unrestricted driver’s license and two years of driving experience; finalists may need driving records from all states of licensure. Desired Qualifications
Graduate degree in natural resources planning, environmental planning, forestry, or related fields. Experience with NRCS programs (EQIP, CSP) and providing technical assistance to non-professional audiences, especially landowners. Experience with Forest Stewardship and Management Plan development; experience with small forest landowners; knowledge of Forest Practices rules and policies. Application and Contact Information
Questions? Contact DNR Recruiting at DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov. The department values diversity and inclusion and encourages applicants from all backgrounds. Application requirements: Apply online at www.careers.wa.gov Letter of interest detailing qualifications Resume 3–5 professional references Do not attach documents with private information (SSN, etc.) Complete all supplemental questions Candidates moved forward may be contacted via email with interview information Need accommodation during the application process? Call (360) 522-2500 or email DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov. Veterans’ preference: attach DD-214 or equivalent. About the Department
DNR’s Vision: Washington’s lands, waters, and communities thrive. Mission: Manage, sustain, and protect the health and productivity of Washington’s lands and waters. Core Values: Safety and Well-Being; Public Service; Innovation; Leadership and Teamwork. Benefits include health insurance, paid holidays, retirement plans, paid leave, and professional development opportunities. For more information, visit http://careers.wa.gov/benefits.html.
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Western Natural Resource Conservation Services Conservation Planner, Environmental Planner 3 (EP3) Recruitment #2025-9-P488 • Full-time, Project, Represented position (WFSE) • Anticipated project: November 2025 - August 2027 • 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: $5,666.00 - $7,622.00 Monthly. Review of applications is ongoing. We reserve the right to make a hiring decision or close this recruitment at any time after 9/10/25. It is in your best interest to submit materials as soon as possible. Want to join something GREAT and make a difference? This is one of three similar project positions with locations in Olympia, Colville, and Omak. You must apply separately to each location. The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has an exciting opportunity within our Forest Resilience Division as an
NRCS Conservation Planner
in Olympia. This role supports restoring forest ecosystems and assisting small private forest landowners in Washington State by delivering conservation on private lands and helping landowners access financial resources. The NRCS Conservation Planner works to expand technical and financial support for non-industrial small forest landowners within the state program. The Service Forestry Program delivers technical assistance and educational services to support proactive management of Washington’s small private forest lands. The program helps landowners assess resource conditions, identify problems and opportunities, determine financial assistance eligibility, assist with treatment implementation, and recommend management practices. It also educates landowners and assists with developing and implementing management plans to guide actions. NRCS is USDA’s primary land conservation agency. While NRCS is a federal program, it is administered locally with several Service Centers throughout Washington State. The Conservation Planner’s role is to establish and expand environmental planning tools by integrating NRCS technical and financial assistance for non-industrial small forest landowners. The Conservation Planner reports to the DNR’s Service Forestry Planner and coordinates with NRCS District Conservationist and other staff to provide conservation plans and enroll landowners in programs such as EQIP and CSP. The position serves as the subject matter expert for all NRCS programs and may provide education to DNR staff and external partners within the assigned work area. The role specializes in environmental planning for forest management, including watershed protection, insect/disease control, forest recreation, tree planting, wildlife habitat development, and fuels reduction or mitigation. Responsibilities
Develop new, long-lasting partnerships with landowners in the assigned service area interested in NRCS technical and financial assistance programs. Provide consultation and program guidance to division and region staff on NRCS programs (e.g., EQIP, CSP) and strategies to leverage resources to support environmental practices for forest health and resilience. Provide environmental planning consultative services for DNR or other forest landowner financial assistance programs; coordinate with and advise other forest health projects within the assigned area. Identify and engage priority landscapes and forest health priorities in service areas, aligning with DNR and NRCS strategic goals. Engage landowners who may be hesitant to participate in NRCS programs; work one-on-one to develop land management plans and identify conservation practices and eligibility for NRCS financial assistance (e.g., EQIP). Work with clients and staff to prepare and approve conservation plans; review and submit Forest Stewardship Management Plans or other plans; provide technical specifications for forest practices and silvicultural treatment, including pesticide/herbicide guidance when appropriate. Collaborate on Conservation Practice Inventories and Evaluations; develop implementation requirements for forest management practices and certify completion for clients. Provide program information and guidance on eligibility and required applications; verify Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) as needed. Assist in developing and collecting cost data; review program applications, contracts, and payment requests; monitor obligations and use data to inform environmental plans and progress toward objectives. Prepare and verify environmental contract administration documents from application through final payment. Assist in managing NRCS program contracts, including annual reviews and compliance documentation; communicate with participants. Track client eligibility processing with Farm Service Agency and other requirements per program manuals. Process contract documents, monitor contract timelines, and prepare modifications or reminders as needed. Recommend policy, procedure, and programmatic planning improvements for potential long-term integration of NRCS into state programs. Coordinate with DNR programs and external partners to develop outreach materials and present to landowners, professionals, loggers, and other audiences about NRCS services. Author informational articles for outreach (e.g., Forest Stewardship Notes, Landowner News) and, as requested, contribute to other publications. In coordination with regions, teach forestry topics for WSU Extension and other programs (e.g., Forest Owners Field Days, Family Forest Advisors Workshops, etc.). Provide certification inspections for the American Tree Farm Program. Develop reports as needed from data in various systems; enter and maintain NRCS documentation and inquiries. Participate in training and professional development to maintain credentials such as SAF Certified Forester and related certifications. Collaborate with staff to maintain updated knowledge of technology, data collection, and related duties. Required Qualifications
Bachelor of Science in natural resource planning, environmental planning, forestry, forestry education, biology, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or closely related field; minimum three years of professional forest management experience in the Pacific Northwest; or equivalent combination of education and experience. Experience in silvicultural and forest management practices in the Pacific Northwest (road design, timber planning, silviculture techniques, reforestation, harvest boundaries). Experience with forestry tools and GIS (ArcGIS Pro, Survey123, Field Maps) and other mapping tools. Strong communication and collaboration skills with public and professionals; proficiency with Microsoft Office and SharePoint. Ability to manage deadlines and priorities; commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and environmental justice. Ability to operate within applicable laws and public records requirements. DNR Core Competencies: Personal Accountability, Value Others, Compassionate Communication, Inspire Others, Commitment to Excellence. Special Requirements and Conditions of Employment
Work is indoors but includes field and outdoor settings; ability to walk on uneven terrain in forest environments year-round in various weather conditions is required. Travel within the assigned area and statewide may be required; multi-day trips and overnight stays (approx. 3–5 nights per month) may be necessary; ability to drive long distances is required. Must meet the federal OPM qualification standards for the General Natural Resources Management and Biological Sciences Series 0401; education must meet American Tree Farm Inspector requirements; valid Public Pest Control Consultant and/or Certified Tree Farm Inspector certifications or ability to obtain within 6 months of employment. NRCS Conservation Planner certification or ability to acquire; Level I within 6 months and Level III within 18 months of achieving Level I. Valid, unrestricted driver’s license and two years of driving experience; finalists may need driving records from all states of licensure. Desired Qualifications
Graduate degree in natural resources planning, environmental planning, forestry, or related fields. Experience with NRCS programs (EQIP, CSP) and providing technical assistance to non-professional audiences, especially landowners. Experience with Forest Stewardship and Management Plan development; experience with small forest landowners; knowledge of Forest Practices rules and policies. Application and Contact Information
Questions? Contact DNR Recruiting at DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov. The department values diversity and inclusion and encourages applicants from all backgrounds. Application requirements: Apply online at www.careers.wa.gov Letter of interest detailing qualifications Resume 3–5 professional references Do not attach documents with private information (SSN, etc.) Complete all supplemental questions Candidates moved forward may be contacted via email with interview information Need accommodation during the application process? Call (360) 522-2500 or email DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov. Veterans’ preference: attach DD-214 or equivalent. About the Department
DNR’s Vision: Washington’s lands, waters, and communities thrive. Mission: Manage, sustain, and protect the health and productivity of Washington’s lands and waters. Core Values: Safety and Well-Being; Public Service; Innovation; Leadership and Teamwork. Benefits include health insurance, paid holidays, retirement plans, paid leave, and professional development opportunities. For more information, visit http://careers.wa.gov/benefits.html.
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