Geoscientist, Natural Resource Scientist 1 (NRSci1)

Geoscientist, Natural Resource Scientist 1 (NRSci1)
Recruitment #2026-4-8468
Full-time, Non-permanent, Represented position (WPEA)
Anticipated Non-permanent employment is 6 months, with the possibility of up to 12 months
Location: Natural Resources Building - Olympia, WA
Work Hours and Partial Telework flexibility may be available and considered
Salary: $4,093.00 - $5,501.00 Monthly

Review of applications is ongoing.We reserve the right to make a hiring decision or close this recruitment at any time after 05/05/2026. It is in your best interest to submit materials as soon as possible.

Want to join something GREAT and make a difference?
Are you someone who enjoys field work and is motivated by meaningful work that contributes to seismic resiliency at our public schools? If so, this could be a great experience for you! The Washington Geological Survey (WGS) is seeking up to two geophysical scientists to join a team working on our School Seismic Safety Project (SSSP). The SSSP is a state-wide effort to assess seismic vulnerability at schools across the State of Washington by collecting valuable geologic and geophysical information for schools, engineers, and researchers responsible for evaluating the earthquake resiliency at school structures. In this position, you and an assistant will collect geophysical data at various Washington public K-12 schools this spring and summer. This position requires knowledge of geophysical methods, field instrumentation and troubleshooting, GIS, and database management. You will be expected to lead a field team and work both independently and with other SSSP team members to meet project objectives. This position requires interaction with members of the public and school district staff, so good communication skills are a must. The WGS is a skilled and diverse group of scientists working to collect and provide geologic information for the public. This project is a great opportunity for anyone looking to expand their knowledge and practice of geophysics and Washington geology, and learn more about public service in this state.Responsibilities:

• Oversee the application and deployment of geophysical instrumentation and associated software to collect geophysical data at public school campuses across Washington State.
• Lead, organize, and manage a small field team (1-2 other people) with data collection, travel, equipment deployment, and other SSSP duties.
• Record and maintain accurate and descriptive notes on data collection and deployment of equipment.
• Help organize and plan data collection efforts, including pre-deployment, field equipment maintenance, site reconnaissance, and scheduling activities.
• Meet with school and district staff on site to coordinate data collection at each campus.
• Upload, manage, and organize field data and notes according to established data management procedures.
• Compile, convert, and upload spatial data into GIS databases for analysis and record keeping.
• Perform outreach activities including geophysical demonstrations, media events, educational activities, and other presentations about geophysics and geology.
• Assist with data processing, analysis, interpretation, and preparation of associated reports as needed.

Required Qualifications:

• A Bachelor's degree with major study in geology, geophysics, Earth science, engineering geology, civil engineering, geotechnical engineering, or closely-related degree.
  AND two years professional research work experience, including geologic and/or geophysical experience with an emphasis on geophysical data collection and QA/QC of field data.
  OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Knowledge in GIS, geophysical collection and processing software, and data management.

Required Competencies:

• 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
    
    

Special Requirements and Conditions of Employment:

• Office, public meetings, and typically ~50% fieldwork. Fieldwork may involve steep, uneven terrain in all weather conditions. This position requires repeated swinging of a 16 lb. sledgehammer onto a metal plate resting on the ground daily and requires the ability to lift heavy equipment (up to 50 lbs.). Fieldwork can involve loud, repetitive noises.
• Extensive in-state, with occasional out-of-state.
• A current, valid driver’s license and two years of driving experience. Additionally, DNR requires state drivers to possess a license that is not suspended, revoked, or restricted (for example, Occupational/Restricted Driver Licenses or requiring ignition interlock devices). This position requires driving as an essential function. Finalists and/or interview candidates will be asked to provide a driving record from all states in which they have held a license during the past three years.

Desired Qualifications:

• Graduate degree in geology, geophysics, geological sciences, engineering geology, civil engineering, geotechnical engineering, or closely-related degree.
• Experience using magnetometer, gravimeter, seismic monitoring equipment, GPR, GPS, GIS, and/or other common field equipment (e.g. compass, total station, leveling, inclinometer, and others).
• Experience processing, interpreting, and reporting geophysical data.

Don’t let doubts stop you from applying for this position.At DNR, we value diversity and inclusion in our organization, and we are looking for the best person for the job. We are invested in acquiring the best and most innovative candidate for the job, and that candidate may be one from a less traditional background. It is important you consider and clearly communicate within your application materials how your education, volunteer work, life skills, and experience transfer to this position and the qualifications. If you have any questions about the qualifications, please contact us at DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov. Don’t hesitate to apply!Application Requirements:Failure to provide the listed documents may result in disqualification. If you have questions or difficulty attaching these documents, please contact DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov.

• Apply online:at www.careers.wa.gov (Click on the APPLY button above).
• Letter of interest:describing your specific qualifications for the position and the position required, desired, and special requirements.
• Resume:that details your experience and qualifications.
• References:Referencesare optional at the time your application is submitted. Finalists will be asked to provide a list of at least 3 professional references with current telephone numbers, including your current or most recent supervisor.
• Important:Do not attach any documents that include photos or private information (Social Security number, year of birth, etc.).
• Complete all supplemental questions.
• Candidates who move forward in the recruitment process may be contacted via email at info@governmentjobs.com with interview information/scheduling instructions. Please monitor the email listed in your application materials and check your junk email folder to ensure you receive those communications.

Questions? Please contact Alex Kover at alex.kover@dnr.wa.gov / (360) 890-0361, Crystal Joselyn at crystal.joselyn@dnr.wa.gov / (360) 870-4379, or email us atDNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov.

Persons needing accommodation in the application/testing process or this job announcement in an alternative format may call (360) 522-2500 or email DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through theWashington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384.

About the Department of Natural Resources(DNR).
At DNR, we approach our work through the lens of making Washington a better place environmentally and are dedicated to serving Washington’s lands and communities through diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Our Vision – Our actions ensure a future where Washington’s lands, waters, and communities thrive.
Our Mission –Manage, sustain, and protect the health and productivity of Washington’s lands and waters to meet the needs of present and future generations.
Our Core Values:

• Safety and Well-Being —Our top priority is the safety of the public and our employees.
• Public Service —We value and respect the public we serve, and we value and respect the people of the Department of Natural Resources who step up to serve.
• Innovation and Creative Problem-Solving — We solve our state’s most pressing challenges through innovative thinking, dedication, and bold and creative vision.
• Leadership and Teamwork —We are committed to building leaders at all levels and building teams for success.

DNR provides excellent benefits, a few of which include:

• Commitment to organizational health and wellness
• Work/life balance
• DNR Employee Resource Groups (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Council, Women’s Employee Resource Group, Veterans Employee Resource Group, etc.)
• Statewide Employee Business Resource Groups, visit here to learn more
• Leadership that empowers and supports employees
• Professional development opportunities
• Educational and career development aid
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness Eligibility
• Opportunities to participate in wildland fire suppression assignments
• A comprehensive benefits package includes employer contributions toward health insurance, paid holidays, retirement plans, sick leave, and vacation days. Visit http://careers.wa.gov/benefits.html for more information.

Additional Information:
This recruitment may be extended and used to fill future similar vacancies for up to sixty (60) days.

DNR does not use the E-Verify system. For more information, please visitwww.uscis.gov.

Veterans wishing to claim Veteran’s preference, please attach a copy of your DD214 (Member 4 long-form copy), NGB 22, or a USDVA signed verification of service letter. Please black out all PII (personally identifiable information) data, such as social security numbers. We thank you and are grateful for your service!

Equal Opportunity Employer:The Washington State Department of Natural Resources is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation, and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons with disability, persons over 40 years of age, veterans, military spouses or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply.

Once you submit your online application, you can check your status by logging into your account. If you experience technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application, call 360-664-1960 or 1-877-664-1960 or emailCareersHelp@des.wa.gov.

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