Natural Resource Specialist 2 (PCN 10-N27002-4)

State of Alaska•Fairbanks, AK

11h•Hybrid

About The Position

The Department of Natural Resources, Division of Mining, Land & Water, is hiring three Natural Resource Specialist 2s in Fairbanks. These long-term, nonpermanent positions are part of the Northern Region Permits and Easements Team and support the Broadband Equity, Access, and Development (BEAD) Program. The roles adjudicate easements for broadband projects statewide and issue required authorizations accurately and efficiently to advance projects over the next three years. The specialists manage novel, complex, and potentially controversial cases, finding innovative and practical solutions and documenting findings in administrative decisions that clearly explain the reasoning behind conclusions. They evaluate requests to use state-owned land and determine whether proposed uses are appropriate and whether modifications are needed for projects to proceed. The work contributes to the management of state land and the expansion of broadband access across Alaska. The team offers a supportive environment, a hybrid telework model, flexible work schedules, autonomy, career advancement opportunities, and extensive land-management training. The Fairbanks office is on a wooded campus along the Chena River. Work balances independent and collaborative efforts, with frequent opportunities for occasional, short-duration fieldwork. Travel is often along major Interior road corridors and may occasionally involve remote locations reached by small plane, helicopter, ATV, snowmachine, or boat. Field inspections take place in both summer and winter conditions and may involve checking compliance or assessing land-use impacts.

Requirements

Competencies in analytical thinking and problem solving, including using a logical, systematic approach and drawing on knowledge, experience, and other resources.
Competencies in decision-making, including making sound, informed, objective decisions and understanding their impacts and implications.
Knowledge of legal, government, and jurisprudence matters, including laws, regulations, agency rules, government functions, and legal documents.
Competencies in oral communication, including effectively conveying information, making clear presentations, listening, and responding appropriately.
Competencies in writing, including correct English usage and producing succinct, organized writing appropriate to the audience.
Competencies equivalent to those typically gained through education in a natural resource field, public administration, planning, economics, cartography, or a closely related field, and/or professional-level experience in natural resource management.
Ability to perform some fieldwork, including inspections in summer and winter conditions and travel to remote areas by small plane, helicopter, ATV, snowmachine, or boat.
Applicants must be Alaska residents.

Responsibilities

Adjudicate easements for broadband projects statewide as part of the BEAD Program.
Issue required authorizations accurately and efficiently to advance broadband projects.
Manage novel, complex, and potentially controversial cases using innovative, practical solutions.
Document findings in administrative decisions that clearly explain the reasoning behind conclusions.
Evaluate requests to use state-owned land and determine whether the proposed use is appropriate and whether modifications are required.
Conduct field site inspections to verify compliance with authorizations or assist other DNR personnel with compliance inspections and site monitoring.
Participate in inspections to assess land-use impacts and check existing authorizations for compliance.