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NEOGOV · 11 hours ago

Forestry Innovation Strategist, Exempt

Thurston County – Olympia, WA

Full-time

Hybrid

Senior Level

$8,993/mo - $10,488/mo

7+ years exp

NEOGOV is seeking a Forestry Innovation Strategist to join the Department of Natural Resources in Washington. This role will provide strategic-level management and analysis related to forestry, focusing on the development and implementation of innovative forestry practices and projects that align with the Commissioner’s vision.

GovTechHuman ResourcesInformation TechnologySoftware

Responsibilities

Lead the design and execution of strategic initiatives that operationalize the Commissioner’s forestry priorities

Translate high-level policy goals into actionable programs, pilots, and performance metrics

Identify emerging trends, technologies, and best practices in forestry, forest products, and land management, and assess their applicability to Washington’s landscapes and trust responsibilities

Inform policy development by providing analysis and recommendations grounded in science, operational realities, and external partner input

Identify and pursue funding opportunities (state, federal, philanthropic) to support innovative forestry initiatives

Support legislative and executive briefings, including preparation of memos, testimony, and strategic materials

Collaborate on agency legislation and assist with legislation analysis

Facilitate inclusive engagement with rural communities, trust beneficiaries, Tribes, environmental organizations, forestry workers, and industry partners

Clearly communicate (both in written and oral form) complex forestry and climate topics to diverse audiences, including policymakers and the public

Represent the Commissioner on committees, workgroups, and forums focused on forestry innovation

Qualification

Ecological forestryNatural resource policyLegislative processEnvironmental justiceProject managementCompassionate communicationPersonal accountabilityInspire othersCommitment to excellenceActive listeningTeam collaboration

Required

A master's degree in forestry, natural resource management, environmental studies, public policy, or a related field; OR a combination of education and/or experience equivalent

A minimum of 7 years' experience working on ecological forestry, conservation, or natural resource policy

Demonstrated experience working on complex natural resource and forestry issues that align with the Commissioner's vision, including ecosystem services markets and other innovative funding mechanisms

Demonstrated experience driving transformational change while still successfully managing internal and external relationships, including industry partners, government officials, agency staff, and the public in the pursuit of broad public policy goals

Strong understanding of, and experience applying, racial equity and environmental justice practices in your work

A strong background in the legislative process, politics, state government, and legislative timelines and protocols

Demonstrated success in innovation, pilot programs, or organizational change within public or mission-driven organizations

Active listening skills as demonstrated by the ability to resolve conflicts and receive and convey ideas and information

Demonstrated ability to write for prioritized audiences effectively and to communicate persuasively at all levels of the organization and externally

Ability to manage multiple short-term and long-term projects simultaneously

Ability to work as part of a team as well as coordinate, facilitate, and manage the work of ad hoc teams formed from cross-agency resources

DNR Core Competencies: Personal Accountability, Value Others, Compassionate Communication, Inspire Others, Commitment to Excellence

Preferred

Project management skills are preferred but not required

Experience working for an elected official is preferred but not required

Benefits

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 that includes employer contributions toward health insurance, paid holidays, retirement plans, sick leave, and vacation days.