Northeast Conservation Planner

Position Overview

Application Deadline: May 21, 2026

Salary: $5,666 – $7,622 Monthly

Education Required: Bachelor’s degree

Experience Required: At least three years in forest management

Description

The Washington State Department of Natural Resources manages public lands and supports forest health initiatives across the state. The agency works closely with landowners and partners to deliver conservation programs that enhance resilience and sustainable forest management.

This position supports conservation planning in northeastern Washington by connecting private forest landowners with federal and state assistance programs. The role focuses on environmental planning, partnership development, and implementation of forest health strategies in coordination with the Natural Resources Conservation Service and regional partners.

Responsibilities
• Develop partnerships with private forest landowners to support conservation programs
• Provide consultation on NRCS technical and financial assistance programs
• Deliver environmental planning services for forest management projects
• Coordinate with agency staff and partners on forest health initiatives
• Engage landowners to develop conservation and management plans
• Prepare and approve stewardship and conservation plans
• Conduct conservation practice inventories and evaluations
• Certify completion of conservation practices for program participants
• Provide program guidance and assist with application processes
• Compile and review environmental contract documentation
• Assist in managing program contracts and compliance requirements
• Track contract timelines, eligibility, and progress
• Enter and manage program data within agency systems
• Analyze program data and recommend improvements
• Develop outreach materials and deliver presentations
• Author informational articles for landowner publications
• Support training programs and educational workshops
• Conduct certification inspections for forestry programs
• Participate in professional development and training

Minimum Requirements
• Bachelor’s degree in natural resource planning, forestry, environmental science, or related field or equivalent experience
• Three years of professional experience in forest management
• Knowledge of silviculture, timber management, and forest road design
• Experience using forestry tools and field equipment
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications
• Experience using GIS tools such as ArcGIS Pro and Field Maps
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines
• Strong communication and collaboration skills

Preferred Qualifications
• Graduate degree in natural resources or related field
• Experience with NRCS programs such as EQIP and CSP
• Experience working with private forest landowners
• Experience developing forest stewardship or management plans
• Knowledge of Washington forest practices regulations and policies

Additional Notes
• Project-based position from June 2026 to August 2027
• Based in Colville, Washington with partial remote work flexibility
• Relocation compensation may be available
• Ongoing application review with potential early closure

How to Apply

Submit an application through the Washington State careers portal.