Straits Engineer, Civil Engineer 2 / Civil Engineer 1 (In-Training)

State of Washington

Olympia, WA

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JOB DETAILS

SALARY

$56,952–$88,788 Per Year

SKILLS

Aged Care, AutoCAD, Biology, Career Development, Cartography, Childcare, Civil Engineering, Collective Bargaining, Communication Skills, Compensation and Benefits, Construction, Data Management, Detail Oriented, Diversity, Driver's License, Economics, Employee Benefits, Engineer in Training (EIT), Field Mapping, Fire Suppression/Control, Fishing, Flexible Spending Accounts, Forestry, Geographic Information System Software, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Geology, Government, Green Business, Health Maintenance, Healthcare, Heavy Equipment/Vehicles, Hunting, Interviewing Skills, Leadership, LinkedIn, Natural Resources, Negotiation Skills, Nonprofit, Presentation/Verbal Skills, Problem Solving Skills, Professional Engineer, Quality Management, Regional Sales, Regulations, Sales, Sales/Support Engineering (SE), Software Design, Student Loans, Systems Analysis, Team Lead/Manager, Team Player, Technical Writing, Time Management, Twitter, Use Tax, Water Quality Testing, Writing Skills, Zip

LOCATION

Olympia, WA

POSTED

Today

Salary : $56,952.00 - $88,788.00 Annually
Location : Clallam County - Port Angeles, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number: 2026-6-3083-04762
Department: Dept. of Natural Resources
Opening Date: 06/09/2026
Closing Date: 7/7/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
Salary Information: The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step

Description
Straits Engineer, Civil Engineer 2 / CivilEngineer 1 (In-Training)Recruitment #2026-6-3083
Full-time, Permanent, Represented position (WPEA)
Location: Olympic Region - Port Angeles, WAWork Hours flexibility may be available and consideredSalary: $4,746.00 - $7,399.00 MonthlyThe salary range listed includes a general wage increase of 2% for all state employees effective July 1, 2026.
Please note: A conditional offer of employment may be made pending completion of the degree within 2 months of the opening date of this posting.

Review of applications is ongoing. We reserve the right to make a hiring decision or close this recruitment at any time after 06/16/2026. It is in your best interest to submit materials as soon as possible.

Want to join something GREAT and make a difference?
Olympic Region is actively seeking a Forest or Civil Engineer for the Straits District. The duty station is in Port Angeles, Washington, on the Olympic Peninsula. The varied terrain and high rainfall in the Olympic Region pose many engineering challenges for forest road layout and maintenance. The successful candidate will be in charge of developing road plans for the Straits District Timber Sale Program, which will include evaluating existing roads and structures, locating new road locations, designing new stream-crossing structures, and conducting harvest system analysis. Qualifying experience for the Professional Engineer License may be signed off on for engineers with the Engineering in Training certification. The position is based in Port Angeles and covers the Straits District, from the West side of Lake Crescent, along the Straits, and down the coast to the Mason County line. The community of Port Angeles has many of the amenities that you expect with a larger town; everything from a movie theater to dining and shopping options. Fishing, hunting, hiking, kayaking, the mountains, and the coast are in the backyard. In this position, you will interact with professionals having diverse talents and skill sets. You will have the opportunity to work frequently with other engineers, foresters, wildlife biologists, GIS professionals, geologists, and heavy equipment operators, to name a few. Collaboration is one of our agency's core goals, and we believe that you will benefit by learning while working side by side with others in these fields, and other fields as they learn from you.
Duties

Responsibilities:

Detail-oriented project work and consultation
Manage your own forest road projects from initial scoping to closing out construction
Collaborating with different working partners in the Region in the process of putting together road and stream crossing projects
Creating and maintaining respectful working relationships
Providing recommendations for actions on bridges, culverts, and other maintenance needs on forest roads
Providing recommendations on corrections to fish barriers
Thinking critically and strategically while also meeting project deadlines
Being part of a dynamic and energetic team.

Qualifications

This may be filled as an in-training position. This is designated as a 12-24-month training plan, with a maximum term of 36 months. If you complete all elements of the training steps in less time, we may waive the remaining time required. Candidates will be considered as Civil Engineer 1 (In-Training) or Civil Engineer 2 (CE2), depending on qualifications.

Required Qualifications:
You must meet all the Required Qualifications and Competencies to be considered for this position. There are multiple pathways to meet qualifications, such as education, volunteer work, life skills, and experience. It is important that you clearly communicate in your application material that your skills align with the position and qualifications.
Civil Engineer 1 (In-Training)
(Salary range: $4,746 - $6,384 per month):

Bachelor's degree in Forest or Civil Engineering or related field;
OR an equivalent combination of education and/or experience.

Civil Engineer 2 (CE2)
(Salary range: $5,506 - $7,399 per month):

Bachelor's degree in Forest or Civil Engineering AND 1 year of professional experience;
OR an equivalent combination of education and/or experience.
Knowledge of theory, policy, principles, and practices of the forest engineering profession as applied to the Northwestern United States (i.e., fundamentals of: markets and economics, sales layout, logging methods, road engineering, water quality, watershed management, fish passage design.
Experience with timber sales road plan preparation and administration.
Experience with current forest practice rules, plans, forestry laws & practices, and associated agency policies and WACs.

Required Competencies:

Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Facilitation and negotiation skills
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:

The position's assigned duty station is the Olympic Region office in Port Angeles. This is a field engineer position with approximately 60% of the work performed outdoors, alone, and in remote areas. The ability to perform arduous work while traversing steep, rugged terrain under a full spectrum of environmental conditions is necessary. Approximately 30% of the work involved is performed in a typical office setting. The remaining 10% is operating a motor vehicle.
Travel outside the region for training sessions and wildland fire incidents is necessary, but not exceedingly different than the normal field and office settings described. The employee is eligible for per diem and lodging costs when in travel status, except when provided. A commute will be required to reach most job sites and trainings. The use of an assigned vehicle will be the primary mode of travel. However, the use of specialty vehicles and pool vehicles will be used when specific tasks or efficiency dictate.
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:
These qualifications are not required. However, it can help you stand out as a candidate and should be highlighted in your application material.

Experience with forest engineering objectives and timber harvest planning.
Ability to use GIS software to create maps and manage data.
Knowledge of road design and drafting software such as RoadEng and AutoCAD.
Ability to navigate in the field using maps, a compass, and orthophotos.
Ability to write professional correspondence and technical documents.
Familiarity with current software used in word processing, spreadsheets, and forestry applications.

At DNR, we value diversity and inclusion and are committed to hiring the best candidate for the job. Don't let doubts stop you from applying for this position. If you have any questions about the qualifications, please email us at
Supplemental Information
Application Requirements: Failure to provide the listed documents may result in disqualification. If you have questions or difficulty attaching these documents, please contact

Online Application: Apply at (Click on the APPLY button above). You must complete the entire online application to be considered for the position.
Cover Letter: Your cover letter should be tailored to this job posting. Be sure to highlight your qualifications for this role, directly address the requirements of the position, and explain why you're the best candidate for the job.
Resume: Your resume should consist of your work history, education, volunteer work, life skills, experience, and any other relevant information associated with the position.
References: References are optional at the time your application is submitted. Finalists will be asked to provide a list of at least three (3) professional references, to include a current or most recent supervisor, along with telephone numbers.
Complete All Supplemental Questions: Answers to these questions will be used to evaluate candidates. Please provide comprehensive answers to all questions requiring a text response.
Important: Do not attach any documents that include photos or private information (Social Security Number, year of birth, etc.).
Email Communication: Candidates who move forward in the recruitment process may be contacted via email at with interview information/scheduling instructions. Please monitor the email listed in your application materials and check your junk email folder to ensure you receive these communications.

Questions? Please contact Scott Rose at / (360) 460-5327 or email us at

Persons needing accommodation in the application/testing process or this job announcement in an alternative format may call (360) 522-2500 or email Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through the 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,
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 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 visit

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 email

Check us out on: | | | | |
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. That's 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 (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 (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 , 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

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

Please describe what interests you about the Department of Natural Resources.
02

Please describe what a work environment based on diversity, equity, inclusivity and belonging means to you.
03

Please select which of the following best describes your education and/or experience:

I have a Bachelor's degree in Forest or Civil Engineering or related field.
I have a combination of education and/or experience equivalent to a Bachelor's degree in Forest or Civil Engineering or related field.
None of the above.

04

Do you have a valid driver's license and at least two years of driving experience?

05

Do you now, or will you in the future, require sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g., H-1B visa status, etc.) to work legally for our agency in the United States?

Yes
No
Unsure

06

Where did you originally hear about this job posting?

www.dnr.wa.gov
www.careers.wa.gov
WA WorkSource office or WorkSourceWA.com
Governmentjobs.com
Monster
Indeed
LinkedIn
Twitter
College/university website/career fair
Handshake
Newspaper
Direct Email Notification
Statewide Employee Business Resource Groups (BRG)
Professional/Personal Network
Job Board
Job Fair
Zip Recruiter
Diversity Jobs
Facebook
Other (please specify below)

07

If you answered "other" to the previous question, please specify where you originally learned of this employment opportunity in the space below.
Required Question

About the Company

State of Washington

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