The Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is looking for a Service Forestry Specialist to assist and educate private landowners on how to manage their lands for forest health and wildfire risk. This position administers DNR’s private landowner cost share program, as well as supports the state’s Forest Stewardship program, Firewise USA, and Fire Adapted Communities, and local community fire prevention programs. DNR’s cost share program provides financial assistance to private landowners interested in reducing their wildfire risk and improving their forest health. As a Service Forestry Specialist you will be responsible for assessing landowner’s forest conditions and forest health, independently writing basic prescriptions based on the landowners priorities, objectives, and site conditions, and making forest management recommendations to help the landowner achieve their goals. Other common responsibilities are reviewing Forest Stewardship plans, laying out Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) fuels reduction projects, and participating in Public Education or Forest Stewardship events that promote wildfire mitigation and prevention.
Duties
Responsibilities:
Independently assessing private lands for forest health and wildfire risk.
Building a strong and positive repoir with not only private landowners, but with WSU Extension, Conservation Districts, Firewise USA communities, coalitions, local schools, and the general public.
Representing the agency in a positive manner when interacting with the public.
Collaborating with other foresters, fire management specialists, wildlife biologists, Forest Regulation staff, Fire Managers, Small Forest Landowner technical advisors, and interagency partners.
Independently planning and prioritizing field work and project deadlines.
Conducting field verification and unit boundary layout with consultation from Landowner Assistance Foresters and Coordinators.
Using GIS technologies to collect and analyze data.
Planning and prioritizing fuels mitigation projects.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
Demonstrated experience in professional forest management techniques.
Basic skills and knowledge in the use of a personal computer and forestry instrument measuring tools.
Ability to read maps and interpret information on aerial photos.
Ability to negotiate unfamiliar and difficult terrain by vehicle and on foot.
Demonstrated oral and written communication skills.
Personal organization and prioritization skills.
DNR Core Competencies:
Personal Accountability
Value Others
Compassionate Communication
Inspire Others
Commitment to Excellence
