Natural Resources Technician 3 (Non-Permanent)

Natural Resources Technician 3 (Non-Permanent)

Salary

$3,738.00 - $4,980.00 Monthly

Location

Thurston County - Olympia, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Non-Permanent

Job Number

26DOT-HQ-05594n

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Headquarters

Opening Date

07/01/2026

Closing Date

7/12/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Description

About WSDOT

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal agency with a global reputation for excellence. Our dedicated workforce plans, designs, builds, and operates an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state. In addition to maintaining over 20,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, manages the worlds longest floating bridge, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!

The Opportunity

WSDOT is seeking a motivated and environmentally focused individual to provide technical support to the Headquarters Restoration Crew within the Environmental Services Office Wetlands Program . In this non-permanent role, you will help manage, develop, maintain, and monitor habitat restoration, fish passage, roadside restoration, and wetland mitigation sites on public lands across Washington State, supporting WSDOTs commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable transportation infrastructure. Our top candidates will possess excellent organizational and problem-solving skills, the ability to work collaboratively in both field and office settings, strong communication skills, and a commitment to safety, environmental compliance, and resource conservation.

What to Expect

This position performs work that is primarily hands-on outdoor, physical in nature and is completed in varied inclement weather. This includes exposure to hazardous conditions such as working alongside traffic and construction power equipment, using manual and power tools, outdoor weather exposure, slips, trips, falls, and exposure to hazardous materials including trash, petroleum fuels, herbicides, fertilizers, and other chemicals.

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Natural Resources Technician 3 will:

• Act as a technical support specialist to implement adaptive management plans to maintain environmentally compensatory mitigation areas and roadside restoration areas.
• Support existing adaptive management plans by planting native vegetation.
• Apply herbicides on restoration, mitigation and roadside sites to control and eradicate noxious weeds and perform manual removal of nuisance and noxious weeds if needed.
• Ensure that Invasive Aquatic Species National Pollution Discharge Elimination System Permit, DOE, and WSDA regulations are followed during all aquatic or non-aquatic pesticide applications.
• Read and interpret technical work plans, maps, and plan sheets.
• Operate, clean, maintain and store hand tools and small gas or electric power equipment.
• Drive heavy duty trucks transporting materials, supplies, and equipment.

Qualifications

To be considered for this opportunity, the following competencies are required:

• Plant Identification: Ability to accurately identify Washington native plants, nuisance and noxious weeds to help achieve performance standards and permit requirements.
• Herbicide Application & Safety: Skills to apply aquatic and non-aquatic herbicides safely and in compliance with WSDA, DOE, and agency regulations; ability to maintain pesticide records and store/handle chemicals properly.
• Restoration & Habitat Management: Ability to implement adaptive management plans on mitigation and restoration sites, maintain site activities spreadsheets, install native vegetation and erosion control devices.
• Power Equipment Operation & Maintenance: Skills and ability to operate and maintain hand tools, sprayers, and power equipment.
• Teamwork & Communication: Skills to work effectively within a crew, supports supervisors, collaborate with other regional restoration crews, and professionally engage with the public.
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.

The following qualifications are also required:

• A valid driver's license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles.
• A valid Washington State traffic control flaggers card, or the ability to obtain within six (6) months of hire.
• A valid WSDA pesticide applicators license with public operator and applicable endorsements or, the ability to obtain within six (6) months of hire.
• Ability to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to perform heavy manual labor, in dense vegetation, streams, and wet areas with exposure to outdoor inclement weather.
• Ability to traverse uneven, unstable, and/or slippery terrain.
• Ability to read maps, plan sheets, technical work plans and communicate effectively.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Ecological Restoration & Environmental Stewardship: Knowledge of ecological restoration, habitat management, or environmental stewardship principles.
• Restoration & Natural Resource Support: Experience supporting restoration, environmental, or natural resource projects.
• Field Operations & Safety: Ability to safely perform fieldwork and adapt to changing environmental or operational conditions.
• Equipment & Vehicle Operation: Experience pulling trailers and utility terrain vehicle operation experience.

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• The salary range listed includes the 2% general wage increase, effective on July 1, 2026.
• This is a non-permanent opportunity, expected to last seven (7) months.
• This position offers limited flexible/hybrid remote work options.
• Travel is an expectation of the position and is required on a regular, sporadic, or as needed basis. Overnight travel, up to 3 times per month. Travel often is more than 3 hours roundtrip. On rare occasions, travel time may be up to 4 hours one way.
• In addition to base salary, employees may be entitled to other forms of compensation depending on the type, duties, or location of the position. For union-represented positions, more information on other forms of compensation can be found in the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreements. Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in Chapter 357-28 of the Washington Administrative Code.
• WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov

Why WSDOT

• Work-Life Balance - We are committed to ensure that our staff experience the reward of public service, while also sustaining a routine that suits each individuals' lifestyle.
• Paid Leave - In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees earn up to 25 paid vacation days per year!
• Tuition Assistance - Permanent employees have several options for assistance with education expenses, including tuition reimbursement programs, government discounts at participating colleges throughout the state, and eligibility for federal student loan forgiveness.
• Plan For Your Future - WSDOT offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options. Employees also have their choice of state retirement programs, and much more. Go to State Benefits for more information.

Check out this video to learn more: Why WSDOT?

How to Apply

Applications for this recruitment will be accepted electronically. Your relevant experience may be evaluated to determine salary. Therefore, it is very important that the "Work Experience" portion of the application be completed in as much detail as possible.

In order to be considered for this opportunity, please include the following with your online application:

• An attached Resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date.
• An attached Cover Letter that further explains your qualifications and indicates why you believe you are a viable candidate for this role.
• Contact details for a minimum of three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job-related competencies. NOTE: This information may be entered in the "References" section of the online application; does not require an additional attachment.

Please click the "APPLY" button to proceed. Note that you will be prompted to either sign in or create an account. This step is required in order to submit an application to this opportunity.

WSDOT is an equal opportunity employer. We value the importance of creating an environment in which all employees can feel respected, included, and empowered to bring unique ideas to the agency. Our diversity and inclusion efforts include embracing different cultures, backgrounds and viewpoints while fostering growth and advancement in the workplace. All persons, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, and/ or gender identity, are encouraged to apply. Persons with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the listed Recruiter.

Contact Us

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at Robyn.Lovely@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-HQ-05594n in the subject line.

More than Just a Paycheck!

Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.

We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. Thats why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.

Read about our benefits:

The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.

Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.

Insurance Benefits

Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.

Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.

To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.

Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.

Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.

The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.

Retirement and Deferred Compensation

State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems web site.

Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.

Social Security

All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Holidays

Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.

Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.

Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.

Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.

Sick Leave

Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.

Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

Vacation (Annual Leave)

Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.

Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.

Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

As provided in WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.

Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.

Military Leave

Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.

Bereavement Leave

Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.

Additional Leave

Leave Sharing

Parental Leave

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 01-07-2026

01

This is a non-permanent position. Are you willing to accept a temporary position?

• Yes
• No

02

Please briefly describe your most recent restoration and/or habitat management role and responsibilities. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.

03

Plant Identification: Select the option that best describes your experience identifying native plants, and nuisance and noxious weeds.

• I have extensive experience independently identifying native plants, and nuisance and noxious weeds and applying that knowledge during field operations.
• I have experience identifying native plants, and nuisance and noxious weeds with occasional guidance.
• I have limited experience identifying native plants, and nuisance and noxious weeds.
• I have no experience identifying native plants and nuisance and noxious.

04

Please describe your experience with identifying native plants, nuisance and noxious weeds. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.

05

Herbicide Application & Safety: Select the option that best describes your experience safely applying herbicides and maintaining compliance with pesticide regulations and recordkeeping requirements.

• I have extensive experience independently applying herbicides, maintaining pesticide records, and safely handling and storing chemicals in compliance with applicable regulations.
• I have experience applying herbicides and maintaining records with occasional guidance.
• I have limited experience with herbicide application or pesticide recordkeeping.
• I have no experience with herbicide application or pesticide recordkeeping.

06

Please describe your experience with herbicide application, pesticide safety, chemical handling, and regulatory compliance. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.

07

Restoration & Habitat Management: Select the option that best describes your experience supporting habitat restoration or mitigation site management.

• I have extensive experience implementing restoration or adaptive management activities, installing native vegetation and erosion control measures, and maintaining project documentation.
• I have experience supporting restoration or habitat management activities with occasional guidance.
• I have limited experience supporting restoration or habitat management projects.
• I have no experience supporting restoration or habitat management projects.

08

Please briefly describe your experience supporting habitat restoration or mitigation site management. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.

09

Power Equipment Operation & Maintenance: Select the option that best describes your experience operating and maintaining hand tools, sprayers, and power equipment.

• I have extensive experience safely operating and maintaining a variety of hand tools, sprayers, and power equipment.
• I have experience operating and maintaining common hand tools and equipment with occasional guidance.
• I have limited experience operating or maintaining hand tools or power equipment.
• I have no experience operating or maintaining hand tools or power equipment.

10

Please briefly describe the types of hand tools, sprayers, and power equipment you have experience operating or maintaining. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.

11

WSDA Pesticide Applicator License: Do you currently possess a valid WSDA Pesticide Applicator License with the required public operator and applicable endorsements?

• Yes
• No

12

Do you have a valid drivers license?

• Yes
• No

13

Are you able and willing to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds?

• Yes
• No

14

Are you able and willing to safely perform the physical requirements of this position, including heavy manual labor, working in dense vegetation, streams, and wet areas?

• Yes
• No

15

Are you able and willing to traverse uneven terrain, and working outdoors in varying weather conditions?

• Yes
• No

16

This position is required to travel on a regular, sporadic, or as needed basis including overnight travel, rarely or up to 3 work weeks per month. Travel often is more than 3 hours roundtrip. Are you able and willing to perform these essential functions?

• Yes
• No

17

Map & Technical Document Interpretation: Select the option that best describes your ability to read maps, plan sheets, and technical work plans.

• I am highly proficient reading and interpreting maps, plan sheets, and technical work plans and regularly use them to perform field work.
• I can read and interpret maps, plan sheets, and technical work plans with minimal assistance.
• I have limited experience reading maps, plan sheets, or technical work plans.
• I have no experience reading maps, plan sheets, or technical work plans.

18

Restoration & Natural Resource Support: Please briefly describe your experience supporting restoration, environmental, or natural resource projects. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.

19

How did you learn of this employment opportunity?

• Indeed
• LinkedIn
• Direct Email Notification
• WSDOT social media (Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, etc)
• Career Fair
• Monster
• WorkSource
• Handshake
• AASHTO
• NACTO
• COMTO
• APWA
• "NOW HIRING" banner/sign
• Radio advertisement
• WSDOT Employment Site
• Careers.wa.gov
• governmentjobs.com
• Other (specify below)

20

If you selected Other on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:

Required Question

Employer State of Washington

Address View Job Posting for Agency Information

View Job Posting for Location, Washington, 98504

Website http://www.careers.wa.gov