Water Access Maintenance Specialist - Natural Resource Specialist 1 - Permanent - 2026-06278

Posting number: 2026-06278

Department: Dept. of Fish and Wildlife

Job classification: NATURAL RESOURCE SPECIALIST 1

Posting type: Open & Promotional

Categories: Environmental Services, Parks and Beaches, Recreation, Parks and Recreation, Natural Resources, Wetlands, Sciences, Green-Collar/Environmental, Wildlife

Summary

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Title- Water Access Maintenance Specialist

Classification- Natural Resource Specialist 1

Job Status- Full-Time / Permanent

WDFW Program- Wildlife Program – Lands Division – Region 6
Duty Station- Lacey, Washington – Thurston County

Learn more about being a member of Team WDFW!

WDFW employee carrying a weed whacker in the field – Photo Credit: WDFW

Do you enjoy working outdoors, operating equipment, and taking on projects that improve recreational access to Washington's natural resources? 

As a Water Access Maintenance Specialist, you'll help maintain and enhance wildlife and water access areas across WDFW's Region 6, ensuring they remain safe, accessible, and enjoyable for the public. 

Working alongside a dedicated team, you'll perform a variety of technical and skilled maintenance tasks that support fish and wildlife conservation while providing high-quality opportunities for recreation and public access.

WDFW Chehalis Wildlife Area - Satsop Unit North Property - Double Bridges – Photo Credit: WDFW

What to Expect:

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Water Access Maintenance Specialist will,

• Inspect and maintain WDFW Wildlife Areas and Water Access Areas while collecting information.
• Assess recreational use, infrastructure status, and habitat conditions. 
• Document site conditions by taking photographs and preparing reports that evaluate recreational use, accessibility, terrain, habitat conditions, infrastructure, and user practices.
• Perform skilled maintenance and repair work across multiple trades to support habitat improvements and infrastructure on Wildlife and Water Access Areas.
• Evaluate public use patterns, including trails, boat launches, and road use, identify issues, and recommend appropriate solutions.
• Contribute to planning efforts for recreation infrastructure, habitat enhancement, and long-term management of Wildlife and Water Access Areas.
• Assist with preparing grant applications for recreational access improvements, habitat conservation, and land acquisition, while supporting ongoing site operations and maintenance.
• Oversee, train, and evaluate the work of assigned employees and volunteer crews within the area of responsibility.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Work Setting, including hazards:

This position is primarily field based, with approximately 85% of the work performed in the field and 15% in an office setting. Work is conducted at Region 6 Water access areas, primarily lake, river, and marine access site and WDFW Wildlife areas. Traverse rugged, uneven terrain and operate four-wheel drive vehicles and ATVs on highways, forest roads, and trails in all weather conditions. Perform sustained outdoor work and vehicle operation for extended periods, often 4-6+ hours in the field and 2-4+ hours driving. Frequently hike, bend, twist, stoop, climb, and lift or carry more than 45 pounds while performing assigned duties. May be exposed to human waste, drug paraphernalia, herbicides, paint, and other hazards. This position may involve working in or near water, including tasks that require navigating, negotiating, and performing duties related to water environments

Schedule:

Typically, Monday through Friday, 8:00 am and 5:00 pm. Work outside of these hours may be assigned as needed to complete work tasks and may include night and weekend hours.

Travel Requirements:

Frequent day travel throughout Region 6 to Wildlife an