Forest Practices Permit Specialist, Natural Resource Specialist 1 (NRS1)

About the position

The Forest Practices Permit Specialist (NRS1) position supports the DNR's mission through the Department's role in implementing the Forest Practices Act on private, state, and local government forestlands. This position works collaboratively with a diverse group of landowners, foresters, consultants, geologists, local government entities, tribes, biologists, and other professionals to protect our natural resources. Working under general supervision, this position makes decisions and performs duties independently by applying guidelines established by WACs, RCWs, Forest Practices Habitat Conservation Plan, and forest practices policies and procedures. This position evaluates Forest Practices applications and uses professional judgement and knowledge to analyze and classify applications. Additionally, the Permit Specialist provides technical support and consultation to forest landowners, agencies, local government entities, and the public regarding understanding and interpreting forest practices rules.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate and classify Forest Practices Applications (including aerial chemical spray and hydraulic projects) and associated documents for completeness and consistency.
• Educate and provide technical assistance to landowners regarding forest practices rules.
• Respond to and resolve general complaints and requests for information.
• Prepare and process notifications and enforcement documents accurately and within mandated timeframes.
• Manage records and public disclosure requests.
• Participate in Staff meetings, Timber Fish and Wildlife (TFW) meetings, trainings, and region or program-wide meetings.
• Implement procedural changes as directed by the Forest Practices Coordinator, Forest Practices District Manager, or Forest Regulation Division.
• May participate in the Wildfire Program in a voluntary capacity.

Requirements

• Associate degree in natural resource management, business administration, or related field; AND two (2) years of progressively responsible experience in office/clerical administrative work with a strong emphasis on customer service: OR a combination of education and/or experience.
• Advanced knowledge in the use of software applications such as Microsoft Word, Excel, SharePoint, and Adobe products.
• Demonstrated ability to organize, prioritize, and work within tight schedules and timelines with attention to detail.
• Strong oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills, including demonstrated ability to clearly articulate information to a variety of audiences.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• 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.

Nice-to-haves

• Knowledge of the Forest Practice Act and associated rules, and relationships to other environmental laws, policies, procedures, and agency practices.
• One (1) or more years of experience using ArcGIS or similar mapping tools, including reading and interpreting legal descriptions, topography, and aerial photos.
• Experience in interpreting and explaining complex rules and laws.
• Experience working in a team environment.
• Knowledge and proficiency with Department of Natural Resources programs, operations, and software, including: FPARS, FPETS, WTA, FPRAM, and NaturE.

Benefits

• 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.)
• 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.