Natural Resource Police Officer

State of Washington; Washington; On-site; USD 64,000 - 87,000; Full time

Job summary

State of Washington invites applications for Natural Resource Police Officer in Deer Park, WA. This is a full‑time, permanent, represented position in the Coalition with relocation considerations possible.

Salary ranges from $5,779.00 to $7,774.00 monthly, reflecting the demands of patrolling protected lands and enforcing state and federal law. Officers in this role are sworn police personnel protecting public safety, state assets, and environments across assigned regions.

Qualifications

• Completion of the Washington CJTC Basic Law Enforcement Academy per RCW 43.101.200 OR BLEEA per WAC 139.05.210 OR equivalent recognized by CJTC.
• Four years' experience as a fully commissioned police officer, deputy sheriff, or state trooper.

Responsibilities

• Identifies and prioritizes areas with indiscriminate use to deter violators.
• Provides proactive patrols and issues citations using patrol vehicles or off‑road vehicles.
• Completes reports, collects and preserves evidence, obtains search warrants, and testifies in court.
• Coordinates enforcement patrols with regional personnel for events or issues.
• Assists wildfire investigators with enforcement of Forest Protection laws when requested.
• Maintains cross‑agency cooperation with local, county, state, and federal agencies.
• Works on signage oversight and public outreach with regional staff.
• Maintains monthly reports and updates dispatch logs.

Skills

Police experience

Communication skills

Education

CJTC Basic Law Enforcement Academy

BLEEA or equivalent

Job description

Natural Resource Police Officer

Recruitment #2026-11-A291 Full-time, Permanent, Represented position (Coalition) Location: Deer Park, WA (must reside within Okanogan County, Lincoln County, Stevens County, or Spokane County north of Interstate 90). Work Hour flexibility may be available and considered Relocation Compensation may be available and considered Salary: $5,779.00 - $7,774.00 Monthly

Review of applications is ongoing. We reserve the right to make a hiring decision or close this recruitment at any time after 11/10/26. It is in your best interest to submit materials as soon as possible.

Want to join something GREAT and make a difference? The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has an exciting opportunity within our Executive Management Office as a Natural Resource Police Officer.

Natural Resource Police Officers are armed, uniformed police officers sworn to enforce the laws of the State of Washington and the Constitution of the United States on all lands protected by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources. Natural Resource Police Officers are committed to protecting public safety, state assets, and the environment. Natural Resource Police Officers are assigned to geographical areas with the purpose of investigating, identifying, and initiating prosecution of those individuals who commit crimes on state‑protected lands. Natural Resource Police Officers often work alone in remote areas where they have to independently determine the best course of action to effectively resolve a situation. This position reports directly to the Natural Resources Police Sergeant.

Responsibilities

• Identifies and prioritizes areas that experience indiscriminate use in order to identify violators and/or deter such acts.
• Provides proactive patrols, issues citations and infractions utilizing various methods, such as the use of assigned patrol vehicles and/or off‑road vehicles to access areas of remote or limited access.
• Completes reports, collects and preserves evidence, creates and executes search warrants, and testifies in criminal and civil courts. Attends administrative hearings and collaborates with local, county, state, and federal enforcement agencies in areas of joint jurisdiction or as needed in special cases.
• Conducts complex criminal and civil investigations on lands protected by the Department of Natural Resources, such as theft of specialized forest products on state lands.
• Coordinates enforcement patrols with regional personnel to address special events or identified issues.
• Assist wildfire investigators with enforcement of Forest Protection laws when requested.
• Maintains cross-agency commission with local, county, state, and federal agencies.
• Works with assigned region staff to provide oversight on signage that enhances compliance and enforcement.
• Works with assigned region staff to identify problem areas and recommend solutions to gain compliance with agency rules and regulations.
• Initiates or participates in public outreach and education activities.
• Works with Department of Natural Resources Communications and Outreach section to address specific issues through use of social media outlets.
• Completes monthly reports.
• Maintains and updates computer‑aided dispatch logs.
• Provides the required care, upkeep, and maintenance of assigned equipment including but not limited to 4x4 patrol vehicle, firearms, all‑terrain off‑road vehicles, chainsaws, radios, and other assigned equipment.
• Conducts annual inspections of assigned equipment, including documenting tracked equipment on required forms.

Required Qualifications

• Successful completion of the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission (CJTC) Basic Law Enforcement Academy per RCW 43.101.200 OR Basic Law Enforcement Equivalency Academy (BLEEA) per WAC 139.05.210. OR A Washington CJTC‑recognized basic law enforcement certificate from another state.
• Four years' experience as a fully commissioned police officer, deputy sheriff, or state trooper.

Required Competencies

• Excellent verbal, non‑verbal, and written communication 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 ensure requests are followed.
• DNR Core Competencies:
  • Personal Accountability
  • Value OthersCompassionate Communication
  • Inspire Others
  • Commitment to Excellence

Special Requirements and Conditions of Employment

• Must successfully pass a complete background investigation prior to hire, including an in‑depth interview, polygraph, psychological evaluation, and pre‑employment drug screening (urinalysis).
• Must reside within Okanogan County, Lincoln County, Stevens County, or Spokane County north of Interstate 90.
• This position works in an outdoor environment to enforce natural resources and criminal laws. Patrols are conducted on land and water and take place at all hours of the day and in all weather conditions. In most cases, the position works alone and in remote areas with limited backup resources available.
• Must be willing to travel long distances and be away from home for extended periods as needed.
• 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

• Lead investigator or detective experience.
• Associate or bachelor’s degree in natural resource science, criminal justice, or related field from an accredited institution.
• Forest Management experience.

Application Requirements

• Online Application: Apply at www.careers.wa.gov. 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 position’s requirements, and explain why you’re the best candidate for the job.
• Resume: Your resume should include your work history, education, volunteer experience, life skills, and any other relevant information for 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 [e-mail] 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 Deputy Chief Thomas Martin at (360) 561‑7569 or email us at [e-mail].

Persons needing accommodation in the application/testing process or this job announcement in an alternative format may call (360) 522‑2500 or email [e-mail]. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 7‑1‑1 or 1‑800‑833‑6384.

About the Department of Natural Resources

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 Values

• Integrity — Staff who work at the Department of Natural Resources are principled and consistent on behalf of all Washingtonians.
• Respect — Employees value and respect the public DNR serves, and one another.
• Professionalism — The Agency is committed to professionalism and civil conduct.
• Joy — DNR’s work involves some of the most pressing challenges and opportunities impacting Washington, which staff meet with curiosity and gratitude.

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.

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 [e-mail].

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