Surface Mine Reclamation Field Manager, Natural Resource Scientist 4 (NRSci4)
State of Washington
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Benefits offered by this job
Job summary
The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) in Washington seeks a Surface Mine Reclamation Field Manager, Natural Resource Scientist 4, to lead a team of geologists and geoscientists in regulating surface mine reclamation under RCW 78.44 and WAC 332-18. This full‑time, Olympia‑based role supervises compliance, provides technical guidance, and supports the new Surface Mine Reclamation Award program.
Applicants should have a BS in Geology with six years of reclamation experience, strong leadership,
Qualifications
- BS in Geology or related field with six years' surface mine reclamation experience.
- Proficient with Microsoft Office and ESRI ArcGIS products.
Responsibilities
- Lead a team of geologists and geoscientists in the Surface Mine Reclamation Program.
- Provide technical assistance and regulatory guidance to permit holders for reclamation.
- Coordinate the Surface Mine Reclamation Award Program and related communications.
Skills
Education
Tools
Job description
Surface Mine Reclamation Field Manager, Natural Resource Scientist 4 (NRSci4)
Recruitment #2026-9-A442
Full-time, Permanent, Represented position (WFSE)
Location: Natural Resources Building- Olympia, WA
Salary: $8,161.00 - $10,969.00 Monthly
Work Hours and Partial Telework flexibility may be available and considered
An additional 7.5% assignment pay has been added to the base salary listed on this announcement due to the required licensure.
Review of applications is ongoing. We reserve the right to make a hiring decision or close this recruitment at any time after 9/30/26. 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 job opportunity within the Washington Geological Survey’s Surface Mine Reclamation regulatory program as a Surface Mine Reclamation Field Manager, Natural Resource Scientist 4 (NRSci4).
Are you interested in mining, slope stability, rock mechanics, soil health, and re‑establishing sustainable vegetation in disturbed landscapes? Consider applying to supervise a team of geologists and geoscientists in the Surface Mine Reclamation Program who administer the Surface Mining Act (RCW 78.44 & WAC 332-18), providing regulatory oversight for reclamation of surface mines throughout Washington.
The Surface Mining Act recognizes the importance of surface mining to Washington’s economy while also recognizing the need for thorough regulation and reclamation of mined lands. The goal of surface mine reclamation is to reestablish the vegetative cover, soil stability, and water conditions following mining, to prevent or mitigate future environmental degradation, and to help ensure mined lands are in a condition suitable for their post-mining, secondary use.
We are currently recruiting for an engineering geologist to supervise a group of five regionally based Reclamation Specialists/Inspectors (geologists and geoscientists). This position will also provide reclamation-related technical assistance to permit holders to help them achieve compliance at Washington’s 850 permitted surface mines, as well as collaborate with program staff to sustain and grow our new Surface Mine Reclamation Award program. We are seeking a candidate with strong leadership skills, a passion for nurturing a positive program culture, and excellent verbal and written communication skills.
This position will be based in Olympia but will work throughout the state, as needed. Alternative duty station locations may be considered.
As a Licensed Engineering Geologist (LEG) in Washington state, this position will provide responsible charge, in collaboration with the Lead Regulatory Geologist and Assistant Director of Regulatory Programs, for all five Reclamation Specialists/Inspectors (geologists and geoscientists), as well as occasionally for the Reclamation Geologist/Plan Specialist, and provide oversight and guidance to the Inspectors, including training, evaluations, assistance in prioritization of work, and interpretation of the law (RCW 78.44) and rules (WAC 332-18). The successful candidate will guide and assist the Inspectors in identifying and following up on compliance issues and will provide technical assistance and consultation regarding mining-related slope stability mitigation and reclamation techniques to Inspectors, permit holders, consultants, and others.
The position will take the lead from Inspectors, as deemed necessary based on workload, complexity, licensing requirements, or when a higher‑level position is needed to assist, in order to work with permit holders toward achieving voluntary compliance. Working in good communication with Inspectors on compliance efforts, this position will recommend compliance issues to the Lead Regulatory Geologist and Assistant Director for enforcement action and assist them in the follow‑up to enforcement actions against unpermitted and/or noncompliant permitted mine sites.
Working in collaboration with the Lead Regulatory Geologist, Assistant Director, and other program staff, this position will also lead the effort to sustain and grow the new Surface Mine Reclamation Award Program. This will include coordinating the solicitation and review of nominations and the distribution of awards and collaborating with Washington Geological Survey staff to develop and maintain the award program webpage. This position will lead the effort to leverage the award program as a means to encourage exemplary reclamation practices, share reclamation resources amongst the regulated community, and educate the people of Washington about mining and reclamation.
- Bachelor of Science degree in Geology or related field AND six years’ experience in surface mine reclamation work or a related field; OR equivalent combination of education, training, and professional experience that demonstrates the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
- Demonstrable proficiency with Microsoft Office and ESRI ArcGIS products.
- Knowledge of Washington geology, soil and rock mechanics, slope stability and mitigation.
- 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 Others
- Compassionate Communication
- Inspire Others
- Commitment to Excellence
- A Washington Engineering Geologist License (LEG) is required per RCW 18.220.020 as outlined in the individual performance development plan.
- While primarily an office-based position, field work will be required, which may include driving long distances. Some on‑site meetings may be necessary, and these may be conducted at active mine sites on uneven ground in adverse weather. Worksite may be flexible.
- Overnight travel will be required periodically.
- 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.
- Master’s degree in geology or related field.
- Knowledge, experience, and in‑depth understanding of surface mines, the mining industry, and reclamation techniques.
- Licensed to practice hydrogeology in Washington State (LHG).
- 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.
This recruitment may be extended and used to fill future similar vacancies for up to sixty (60) days.
DNR does not use E-Verify; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM-Optional Practice Training (OPT). For information, please visit www.uscis.gov.
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.
Please contact Ana Shafer at ana.shafer@dnr.wa.gov/253-569-2307 or email us at DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov.
Persons needing accommodation in the application/testing process or this job announcement in an alternative format may call (360) 522-2500 or email DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov. 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.
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 actions ensure a future where Washington’s lands, waters, and communities thrive.
Manage, sustain, and protect the health and productivity of Washington’s lands and waters to meet the needs of present and future generations.
- 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Full‑time and part‑time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
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.
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.
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.
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.
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
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