Education & Enforcement Warden, Natural Resource Specialist ; NRS

Education & Enforcement Warden, Natural Resource Specialist 2 (NRS2)

Recruitment #2026-1-A476. Full-time, Non-permanent, Represented position (WPEA). Anticipated Non-permanent appointment is March 2026 - June 2027.

Location:

Southeast Region
- Ellensburg, WA. Work Hours and Partial Telework flexibility may be available and considered. Salary: $4,299.00 - $5,783.00 Monthly. Review of applications is ongoing. We reserve the right to make a hiring decision or close this recruitment at any time after July 13, 2026. It is in your best interest to submit materials as soon as possible.

We want you to join something great and make a difference. The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has an exciting opportunity within our Southeast Region as an Education and Enforcement Warden.

• Engage with recreationists, volunteers, and the local community on state trust lands while positively representing the agency
• Educate & enforc[e] recreation and public access laws, rules, policies, and procedures on state trust lands
• Issue warnings and citations for violations of recreation laws and regulations
• Patrol DNR trails and recreation facilities
• Investigate and address unauthorized or illegal activities occurring at assigned geographic areas and other DNR‑managed lands throughout the district
• Document, assess, and make recommendations on enforcement as well as facility and trail maintenance needs
• Provide an informational enforcement presence at user group meetings and organized events
• Serve as a resource for law enforcement staff, search and rescue efforts, and emergency response crews
• Document program accomplishments, incident investigation, data collection, and post and develop educational signage
• Operate small power tools, 4WD pickup, surveillance cameras, computer, GPS, and other equipment
• This position works independently in the field

• Associate’s degree AND two years of experience in a natural resource or closely related field; OR an equivalent combination of education and/or experience.
• Experience using computers and processing software, including Excel, Access, Microsoft Word, and PowerPoint.
• Experience with conflict resolution and defusing tense situations.
• Tact and Diplomacy – Ability to respond to difficult, stressful, or sensitive interpersonal situations in a way that reduces or minimizes potential conflict and maintains good working relationships among internal and external customers.
  • Actively strives to understand the people involved and the data before making judgments and acting.
  • Patiently waits for others to absorb information and share their views before acting.
  • Demonstrates tact and skill in dealing with people with viewpoints outside of mainstream thinking.
  • Uses behaviors and language in dealing with people that are appropriate for workplace situations.
  • Positively works through difficult or awkward interpersonal situations.
• Ability to use independent judgment effectively.
• Highly developed writing and oral communication skills and public presentation skills, and the ability to effectively inform and educate user groups, volunteers, and the general public.
• 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.
• DNR Core Competencies
  • Personal Accountability
  • Value Others
  • Compassionate Communication
  • Inspire Others
  • Commitment to Excellence

• Must be able to complete and pass DNR Basic Enforcement Training and receive DNR Limited Commission Authority.
• Must be able to complete and pass ATV, UTV, and trailer towing safety trainings.
• The majority (up to 80%) of work is done alone in isolated, unimproved areas. Incumbent must be able to traverse uneven terrain in all weather conditions, often with limited cell service. Must be able to cover reasonable distances per day in the field on moderate to very difficult terrain. The employee must exercise independent judgment to make the best decisions possible to protect the department, resources, and…