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Education & Enforcement Warden, Natural Resource Specialist

Washington State Department of Natural Resources

Ellensburg, Washington

Job Type Permanent
Salary $4,299 - $5,783 per month
Benefits http://careers.wa.gov/benefits.html
Deadline Jan 20, 2026

Education & Enforcement Warden, Natural Resource Specialist 2 (NRS2)
Full-time, Non-permanent, Represented position (WPEA)
Anticipated Non-permanent appointment is March 2026 - June 2027
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 1/13/26. It is in your best interest to submit materials as soon as possible.

Responsibilities:

  • Engage with recreationists, volunteers, and the local community on state trust lands while positively representing the agency
  • Educate & enforce 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 specific 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 pick up, surveillance cameras, computer, GPS, and other types of equipment
  • This position works independently in the field

Required Qualifications: 

  • 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 the use of 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.
Category Environmental Education , Outdoor Recreation
Tags Park Ranger , Trail Maintenance