State of Washington: Warehouse Lead, Warehouse Operator 3

Pay Rate: $3,811.00 – $4,410.00 Monthly

How to Apply: Apply Online!

Want to join something GREAT and make a difference?
Are you someone with a passion for reforestation and an interest in large-scale native plant nursery operations? The Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has an exciting opportunity for a Warehouse Lead at the Webster Forest Nursery.  Seedlings from Webster Forest Nursery are planted to reforest lands across the Pacific Northwest. The Warehouse Lead oversees the warehouse cold storage, inventory control, order fulfillment, and shipping and handling operations of the forest seedlings produced at Webster Forest Nursery. Annual seedling inventories include over one hundred inventory codes identifying roughly 12-14 million seedlings. This position will collaborate with greenhouse and bareroot production staff to carry out cyclical nursery operations. The work performed by this position supports the agency’s mission and guiding principles to manage WA State’s resources for the beneficiaries of the trust so that future generations have the opportunity to enjoy and benefit from Washington’s rich natural heritage.

Responsibilities

Duties vary seasonally. The ideal candidate’s organizational skills and effective communication allow them to pivot in a dynamic, fast-paced production environment. 

• Leads a team of warehouse operators and works closely with production staff in lifting, packing, and shipping operations.
  • Safely operates 3500-5000 lbs forklift daily to move inventory into and out of cold storage, including loading and unloading refrigerated trailers.
  • Maintains physical organization of cold storage facilities and reconciles physical seedling inventory using database software.
  • Plans and carries out timely order processing, considering biologically appropriate cold storage regimes. 
  • Interacts with nursery customers in a respectful manner. Provides answers and/or references to commonly asked questions about forest seedling care and handling.
• Assists in transplanting operations by organizing, handling, and delivering the appropriate inventory.
• Recruits, trains, and develops seasonal warehouse staff.
• Supports production staff and maintenance staff with cyclical nursery operations and facility upkeep.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Able to clearly communicate in English both verbally and in writing.
• Experience working in a warehouse and/or cold storage system that includes safe, routine operation of electric and/or propane forklifts.
• Basic computer skills, proficiency with Microsoft Office programs, and working knowledge of databases.
• 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.
• Attention to detail.
• Strong organizational skills.
• DNR Core Competencies:
  • Personal Accountability
  • Value Others
  • Compassionate Communication
  • Inspire Others
  • Commitment to Excellence

Special Requirements and Conditions of Employment:

• Work is primarily in cold storage, a processing facility, and an agricultural setting outdoors, in all weather conditions. Must be able to work in coolers/freezers. Must be able to operate forklifts intermittently throughout an 8-hour workday. Must have the ability to lift, carry, push, and/or pull up to 50 pounds without the aid of equipment. Most of the work is performed around large semi-trucks, pedestrians, public cars, and farm equipment. Must maintain situational awareness. Must be able to walk on rough, uneven terrain in all weather conditions and effectively communicate in a large industrial setting.
• Minimal travel is required. Mostly to attend offsite training or visit other facilities for technology exchange.
• A valid unrestricted driver’s license and have two years of driving experience. 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. 
• Must have Forklift certification.
• Obtain and maintain First Aid, AED, and CPR certifications.
• Obtain and maintain Respirator use and fit testing (Soil Fumigant Handler Safety Requirement).

Desired Qualifications:

• Supervisor experience and the ability to lead personnel in essential daily tasks; this level of knowledge and skills is typically achieved after 3-5 years of nursery experience.
• Ability to speak Spanish.
• Experience working with a perishable product, namely plant stock.

Don’t let doubts stop you from applying for this position – If you have any questions about the required qualifications or how your past experience relates to them, please contact us at DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov. A note to potential candidates: Studies have shown that women, trans, non-binary, Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) are less likely to apply for jobs unless they feel they meet every qualification as described in a job description. We value diversity and inclusion in our organization, and we are looking for the best person for the job. Don’t hesitate to apply!

Supplemental Information

Application Requirements:

• Apply online: at www.careers.wa.gov.
• Letter of interest: describing your specific qualifications to the position and position required, desired, and special requirements.
• Resume: that details your experience and qualifications.
• References: at least three professional references with current telephone numbers– you may attach a document, use the References text field in the online application, or include it with your resume.
• Important: Do not attach any documents that include photos or private information (social security number, year of birth, etc.).
• Complete all supplemental questions.
• Candidates who move forward in the recruitment process may be contacted via email at info@governmentjobs.com with interview information/scheduling instructions. Please monitor the email listed in your application materials and check your junk email folder to ensure you receive those communications.

Questions?  Please contact Kathryn Minnema at Kathryn.Minnema@dnr.wa.gov / (360) 902-1234 or e-mail 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.

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, 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 that 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.