Employment FAQs (frequently asked questions)

Find answers to common questions about the application process, where to find accommodations for submitting an application, how to calculate work experience and more. 

How Do I Apply

Below are step-by-step instructions on how to search for job openings, how to complete your application, and helpful hints for you during the job seeking process.

  • Allow emails sent and pop-up messages from 'governmentjobs.com'.
  • Review your application carefully before submitting. Ensure you have attached the necessary required documents (i.e. cover letter, letter of interest and/or resume).
  • Create an account and complete your profile on www.careers.wa.gov to save time when you decide to apply for a job with Washington State.
Search for Job Openings
  1. To search for current Department of Natural Resources (DNR) job openings, go to the Job Opportunities webpage.
  2. Search for jobs openings by category, location, keyword or annual salary.
  3. Click on the job title to view the job posting, benefits overview, and supplemental questions.
  4. For questions about the position, contact the recruiter listed at the bottom of the job posting.
  5. When you're ready to begin the application process, click “Apply” from the job posting. You will be prompted to sign in or create an account.
Complete your Application
  1. Click “Apply” at the top of the job posting you’re interested in applying for.
  2. Complete the entire application, including your full work history and responses to all supplemental questions.
  3. A resume will not substitute for completing the “work experience” section of the application.
    Because we base our selection on the information you provide, it is in your best interest to complete the application, describing your experience and education to demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities that address the required and desirable qualifications listed in the job posting that you are applying for.
For all applications, please attach:
  • A cover letter describing why you are interested in the position.
  • A resume outlining your experience and education (if applicable) as it relates to the minimum qualifications of this position.  

When attaching documents to your application, please:

  • Be sure to remove private information such as your social security number, date of birth, etc.
  • Do not attach documents that are password-protected, as these documents may not be reviewed and may cause errors within your application when downloaded
  • Do not include your salary history. Wage/salary depends on qualifications or rules of promotion, if applicable.  

If you need help applying for a job, please contact us or go online to www.careers.wa.gov and click on Help.

What Does the Hiring Process Look Like?
Phase 1
  • Minimum Qualifications Screening – Once we receive your application, we'll screen for the minimum required qualifications based on your responses to the supplemental questions.
  • Application Review – Application materials will be assessed to determine top candidates.
Phase 2
  •  Interviews – Typically, you'll interview with a panel of at least three current Department staff. You'll be provided with further details about the position you've applied for and information about the division/region and agency as a whole. You'll have the opportunity to cover things like your employment history, accomplishments, and qualifications. You'll also be asked some technical skills questions related to the job and situational and behavioral based questions to assess your aptitude for the position.
Phase 3
  • Reference Checks – References will only be contacted during the final steps of the recruitment process for candidates selected as finalists. References will not be contacted without the candidate’s formal authorization. Prior to references being contacted, we will ask you to fill out a Reference Authorization Form. References will not be contacted prior to receiving your signed authorization.
Final Steps
  • The results of all completed assessment steps will be presented to the hiring authority for a final determination. The top candidate(s) will be officially offered an opportunity for a rewarding career with the Washington State Department of Natural Resources.
How Do I Know if I Qualify for a Position?

Qualification requirements are skills and experiences that the hiring manager has indicated are transferable and/or directly related to successful performance in the role. You are not required to possess the desired qualifications to qualify for the role. Having desired qualifications can help you stand out in a competitive applicant pool, so it is beneficial to demonstrate them in your application if you have them.

If the position interests you and you have the skills and experiences to succeed in the role, we encourage you to apply.

Don’t let doubts stop you from applying for this position 

Along with traditional avenues, DNR is looking for individuals who are STAR (Skilled Through Alternate Routes) employees. 

  • Review the Required Qualifications section of the job posting.
  • Review the Desired Qualifications section of the job posting.
  • Consider how your skills and experience transfer to this position:
    - Education
    - Volunteer work
    - Life-skills

It is important that you clearly communicate this in your application materials as it relates to the Required (and Desired) Qualifications. 

Required Qualifications are listed on the Job Bulletin and reflected in the Supplemental Questions.  Passing applications will be reviewed and will move forward in the recruitment process for further consideration.  If you have any questions about the required qualifications, please contact us at DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov

At DNR we value diversity and inclusion in our organization, and we are looking for the best person for the job. Please don’t hesitate to apply!