Natural Resource Police Officer

State of Washington•Spokane County – Other, WA

5d•Onsite

About The Position

The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is hiring an armed, uniformed police officer sworn to enforce Washington State law and the U.S. Constitution on lands protected by DNR. Officers protect public safety, state assets, and the environment by investigating crimes, identifying violators, and initiating prosecutions within assigned geographic areas. Officers may work alone in remote locations and independently determine how best to resolve situations. The position is based in Deer Park, Washington, and the officer must reside in Okanogan County, Lincoln County, Stevens County, or Spokane County north of Interstate 90. The role involves outdoor patrols on land and water, at all hours and in all weather, often with limited backup. Long-distance travel and extended periods away from home may be required. Work-hour flexibility and relocation compensation may be available and considered. The position reports directly to the Natural Resources Police Sergeant.

Requirements

Successfully complete the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission Basic Law Enforcement Academy under RCW 43.101.200, the Basic Law Enforcement Equivalency Academy under WAC 139.05.210, or hold a Washington CJTC-recognized basic law enforcement certificate from another state.
Four years of experience as a fully commissioned police officer, deputy sheriff, or state trooper.
Excellent verbal, non-verbal, and written communication skills.
Commitment to fostering and supporting an environment that honors diversity, equity, inclusion, and environmental justice practices.
Perform assigned duties consistently with applicable laws, regulations, and public-records-retention requirements, and ensure requests are followed.
Successfully pass a pre-hire background investigation, including an in-depth interview, polygraph, psychological evaluation, and pre-employment urinalysis drug screening.
Reside within Okanogan County, Lincoln County, Stevens County, or Spokane County north of Interstate 90.
Hold a current, valid driver’s license and have at least two years of driving experience. The license must not be suspended, revoked, or restricted, including by an occupational or restricted license or an ignition-interlock requirement.
Provide a driving record from all states where licensed during the past three years if requested as a finalist or interview candidate.
Be willing and able to work outdoors on land and water patrols at all hours and in all weather conditions, often alone in remote areas with limited backup.
Be willing to travel long distances and be away from home for extended periods as needed.
Demonstrate DNR core competencies: Personal Accountability, Value Others, Compassionate Communication, Inspire Others, and Commitment to Excellence.

Nice To Haves

Lead investigator or detective experience.
An associate or bachelor’s degree in natural resource science, criminal justice, or a related field from an accredited institution.
Forest management experience.

Responsibilities

Identify and prioritize areas experiencing indiscriminate use to locate violators and deter unlawful acts.
Conduct proactive patrols and issue citations and infractions, using assigned patrol vehicles and off-road vehicles to access remote or limited-access areas.
Complete reports, collect and preserve evidence, create and execute search warrants, and testify in criminal and civil courts.
Attend administrative hearings and collaborate with local, county, state, and federal enforcement agencies on joint-jurisdiction matters and special cases.
Conduct complex criminal and civil investigations on DNR-protected lands, including investigations of specialized forest-product theft on state lands.
Coordinate enforcement patrols with regional personnel for special events or identified issues.
Assist wildfire investigators with enforcement of Forest Protection laws when requested.
Maintain cross-agency commissions with local, county, state, and federal agencies.
Work with regional staff to oversee signage that supports compliance and enforcement.
Work with regional staff to identify problem areas and recommend solutions to improve compliance with agency rules and regulations.
Initiate or participate in public outreach and education activities.
Work with DNR Communications and Outreach to address specific issues using social media.
Complete monthly reports and maintain and update computer-aided dispatch logs.
Provide required care, upkeep, and maintenance of assigned equipment, including patrol vehicles, firearms, off-road vehicles, chainsaws, and radios.
Conduct annual inspections of assigned equipment and document tracked equipment on required forms.