Natural Areas Program Assistant Ecologist

Natural Areas Program Assistant Ecologist, Natural Resource Scientist 2 (NRSci2)
Work Hours and Partial Telework flexibility may be available and considered
Relocation Compensation may be available and considered
Salary: $4,632.00 – $6,227.00 Monthly 

Review of applications is ongoing. We reserve the right to make a hiring decision or close this recruitment at any time after 2/19/25. It is in your best interest to submit materials as soon as possible.

Want to join something GREAT and make a difference?
The Natural Areas Program Assistant Ecologist works with other ecologists and land managers statewide to implement scientifically based research and management practices on preserves and conservation areas. Under the direction of the lead program ecologist, this position assists with training and field supervision for the Recreation and Conservation Division natural area stewards and participates in training and overseeing volunteers working in natural areas.

To be successful in this position you not only need a working knowledge of native species and ecosystems in Washington state, but you also need to be a leader across several conservation topics and activities, as indicated below.

Responsibilities:

• Plan and implement ecological management actions for conservation lands, including restoration projects in a variety of ecosystem types
• Monitor natural features and test the effectiveness of management actions, including invasive species control and rare plant and animal habitat restoration
• Create and share scientifically based management regimes for ecosystems throughout Washington
• Assist in developing and implementing site-based management plans
• Engage with conservation partners and the public to sustain natural area management

Required Qualifications: 

• A Bachelor’s degree with a major study in “conservation biology,” such as restoration ecology, wetlands ecology, range ecology, applied botany, applied ecology, plant ecology, animal ecology, or a closely related field, AND three years of professional research work experience in the field of conservation biology, including ecological management, research, and monitoring; or ecological restoration; or providing scientific expertise to maintain species, communities, and ecological processes in natural areas;
  OR a Master’s degree AND one year of professional research work experience in the field of conservation biology, including ecological management, research, and monitoring; or ecological restoration; or providing scientific expertise to maintain species, communities, and ecological processes on natural areas;
  OR a Ph.D. degree will substitute for all of the required experience, provided the field of major study is in the specific specialty.
• Knowledge of Pacific Northwest ecosystems; their functions and management.
• Experience planning and implementing restoration ecology practices.
• Experience using ecological data collection techniques and statistical analysis.
• Experience implementing invasive species control practices.
• Experience working with GIS-based desktop computer applications.
• Commitment to fostering and supporting an environment that honors diversity, equity, Inclusion, and environmental justice practices.
• Effective communication and collaboration with peers, the public, and collaborators