Salary: $5,501.00 - $7,400.00 Monthly
Location : Thurston County - Olympia, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 2025-00319
Department: Dept. of Fish and Wildlife
Opening Date: 01/10/2025
Closing Date: 2/9/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
DescriptionTitle- European Green Crab (EGC) Management Unit Lead
Classification- Fish and Wildlife Biologist 4
Job Status- Full-Time / Permanent
WDFW Program- Fish Program - Aquatic Invasive Species Division
Duty Station- Olympia Washington is the current duty station, however, depending on the successful candidate, other duty stations in Western Washington may be considered.
Remote Employment- While this position offers a hybrid work arrangement, the successful candidate must be available to report to the assigned duty station as needed.
Posting Timeframe- This recruitment is scheduled to be posted until February 9, 2025. The first review of applications will take place on January 24, 2025. Application review is ongoing, submit your application materials as soon as possible, this recruitment may be closed at any time.
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Photo Caption: European green crabs trapped at Johns River Wildlife Area - Photo Credit: WDFW
Join the Fish Program's Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Division as the European Green Crab (EGC) Management Unit Lead and take on a pivotal role in safeguarding our state's waters. As an expert biologist, you will lead efforts to prevent the introduction and spread of invasive species, focusing on EGC through early detection, monitoring, and rapid response strategies. In this dynamic position, you'll manage critical resource assessments, and collaborate across various stakeholders to protect Washington's marine nearshore ecosystems. Directly influence program decisions and contribute to controlling, containing, and eradicating invasive EGC populations, ensuring the long-term health of our aquatic environments.What to Expect-Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the European Green Crab (EGC) Management Unit Lead will,
European Green Crab (EGC) Management Unit Oversight:- Lead work planning and implementation for the EGC management unit, independently prioritizing, planning, executing, and evaluating all EGC field work.
- Serve as the program's expert on EGC biology, ecology, and field operations.
- Independently plan, develop, design, and evaluate EGC prevention, early detection, rapid response, control, eradication, and research actions.
- Coordinate, facilitate, and represent the Department on EGC technical committees, regional coordination groups and other forums.
- Work with co-managers, tribes, and partners (e.g. Washington Sea Grant, Lummi Nation, Northwest Straits Commission, Shoalwater Bay Indian Tribe, Willapa Grays Harbor Oyster Grower Association, Conservation Districts, etc.) to support and/or collaborate on EGC field operations.
Supervise EGC Regional Biologists:- Supervise EGC Regional Fish and Wildlife Biologists, and mentors technical and professional level staff to maintain an effective, motivated team.
- Set team goals and objectives for the year, develops performance measures, and monitors progress to ensure individual and program objectives are met.
Support EGC Field Operations:- Work with regional biologists to develop and maintain training materials, curriculum, onboarding processes and protocols for WDFW field technicians and partners.
- Collaborate with partners to develop local response plans to guide management actions associated with new detections of EGC.
WORKING CONDITIONS: Work Setting, including hazards: - Approximately 30% field and 70% office. Field work includes outdoor activities on water and land, sometimes independently in remote locations, and occasionally during inclement weather, both day and night.
- Walk up to five (5) miles on uneven terrain, rarely lift up to 75 pounds, and safely transport and operate large equipment, including cargo trailers up to 25-feet.
- Operate motorized and non-motorized watercraft.
- Must be able to negotiate water in emergency situations.
Schedule: Typically follows normal business hours: 8 hours/day, Monday - Friday for office work, and 10 hours/day, Monday - Thursday for fieldwork, totaling 40 hours/week. However, the position may occasionally require extended hours, work outside normal business hours, including holidays and weekends, and short-notice responses to rapid response AIS emergencies.
Travel Requirements: Frequent statewide travel required, including overnight stays up to five (5) days.
Tools and Equipment: Personal computer, laptop, smart phone, electronic tablet, and electronic software form. Complex mobile water quality laboratory, eDNA, and non-electronic biological and environmental sampling devices. 25-foot cargo trailer, watercraft, flatbed trailer, winches, motor vehicles, and complex hot water trailered pressure washers.
Customer Interactions: Regularly engage with the public through outreach, educational events, presentations, and monitoring activities. Occasionally handle interactions with non-compliant or challenging individuals.
QUALIFICATIONS:Required Qualifications: Bachelor's degree involving major study in environmental, physical, or one of the natural sciences.
AND Three (3) years of experience in a natural resources-related field, this experience must include at least one (1) year of experience in invasive species management.
ANDAt least one (1) year of experience managing a team.
Please Note:- Closely related qualifying experience may be substituted for the required education on a year-by-year basis.
- *Master's degree in one (1) of the above fields may substitute for one (1) year of experience.
- *PhD in one (1) of the above fields may substitute for two (2) years of experience.
- *Education will not substitute for the invasive species management experience unless the major or thesis is specific to invasive species.
Certifications/Licenses:Valid driver's license.
Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment:Successful completion of agency training and/or certification for assigned watercraft is dependent on supervisory direction, position need and?training availability.
Preferred Qualifications:In addition to the required qualifications, our ideal applicant will possess some or all the following:Job Knowledge of:- Principles and procedures of project management and Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) management.
- Developing, implementing, and managing statewide biological studies and management actions.
- Preparing comprehensive reports.
Ability to:- Define research problems and determine the type and extent of information needed.
- Plan, design, and initiate independent experimental research.
- Implement the results of research findings.
- Analyze environmental information to apply solutions, guidelines, and policies for field problems.
- Lead strategic planning, manage performance, and motivate teams effectively.
- Use software such as Access, Word, Excel, PowerPoint and ArcGIS.
- Perform routine descriptive and inferential statistics.
- Accurately measure and record environmental and biological data.
- Analyze and summarize research findings.
Your application should include the following:- A completed online application showcasing how your qualifications align with the job requirements.
- An up-to-date resume.
- A cover letter detailing your interest in the position, your relevant skills and experience, and why you are the ideal candidate.
- At least three professional references with current contact information.
Supplemental InformationIn addition to and other , there are other that WDFW employees may be eligible for. Click the "Benefits" tab at the top of this announcement to learn more.
Important Note: All new employees must complete an Employment Eligibility Verification Form (I-9 Form) on their first day of work. If hired for this or any position at WDFW, you will be required to provide documentation proving you are eligible to work in the United States. For a list of acceptable documents, please use the following link:
Union- WAFWP:This position is in the bargaining unit represented by the Washington Association of Fish & Wildlife Professionals and is subject to the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the State of Washington, Department of Fish & Wildlife, and the Washington Association of Fish & Wildlife Professionals.
Veteran and Military Spouse Preference Notice: Per Veterans and qualifying spouses who meet the minimum qualifications of a position are eligible for preference during the initial application review stage. To receive this benefit, please do the following:
- Notify us of your veteran or military spouse status by email at
- Veterans only - Attach a copy of your DD214 (Member 4 copy), NGB 22 or USDVA signed verification of service letter.
- Please redact any PII (personally identifiable information) data such as social security numbers.
- Subject line must include recruitment number, position, and spouse/veteran (example: 2024-1234 - Biologist 1 - Veteran)
- Include your name as it appears on your application in careers.wa.gov.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion EmployerAs part of WDFW's efforts to advance respectful and inclusive work environments, the Agency expects inclusivity as part of our professional interactions and communications. Therefore, we want to ensure that all individuals feel welcome, are treated fairly and respectfully. All staff are empowered to fully contribute to serving their work unit, Agency, and the citizens of Washington.
The Department of Fish and Wildlife 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 of disability, persons over 40 years of age, disabled and Vietnam era veterans and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply.
Request an accommodation: Persons needing accommodation in the application process or this announcement in an alternative format please contact Jayme Chase by phone 360-902-2278 or email Jayme.Chase@dfw.wa.gov, or the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) at 800-833-6388.
Technical Difficulties: If you are having technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application, please call NEOGOV toll-free at (855) 524-5627 or
Other questions: If you have other questions regarding this position, please reach out to and reference job #2025-00319.
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More than Just a Paycheck!Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Read about our benefits:The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance BenefitsEmployees 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.
Retirement and Deferred CompensationState 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.
Social SecurityAll state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Public Service Loan ForgivenessIf 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.
Holidays Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.
Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.
Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.
Sick Leave 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.
Vacation (Annual Leave)Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in (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 (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 , 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.
Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for
exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.
Military LeaveWashington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.
Bereavement Leave Most employees whose family member or household member dies, are entitled to three (3) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.
Additional LeaveLeave Sharing
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 12-31-2022
01
Do you have a valid driver's license?
02
Please select the option below that best describes the highest level of education you have completed.
- High School Diploma/GED.
- Some College.
- Vocational Degree or Certificate.
- Associate's Degree.
- Bachelor's Degree.
- Master's Degree.
- Ph.D.
- None of the above.
03
What is your major area of study? If you possess multiple degrees, please list each degree and major. (If this does not apply to you, please put N/A.) This includes both vocational and college education.
04
Select the option below that best describes your experience in natural resources-related field.
- No experience.
- Less than 1 year of experience.
- 1 year - 2 years of experience.
- 2 years - 3 years of experience.
- 3 years - 7 years of experience.
- 7 or more years of experience.
05
Select the option below that best describes your experience in invasive species management.
- No experience.
- Less than 1 year of experience.
- 1 or more years of experience.
06
Please briefly describe your experience in natural resources-related field, including your experience in invasive species management. ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).
07
Please briefly describe your experience in planning and implementing biological studies, particularly in the management of aquatic invasive species such as the European Green Crab (EGC). ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).
08
Select the option below that best describes your experience managing a team.
- No experience.
- Less than 1 year of experience.
- 1 or more years of experience.
09
Please briefly describe your experience managing a team - include the strategies you have used to lead and motivate a team, and how you ensure performance objectives are met while managing complex field operations. ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).
10
How did you hear about this job posting? (Select all that apply).
- American Fisheries Society (AFS)
- Careers.wa.gov
- Community Based Organization
- Community/Technical College
- Conservation Job Board
- El Informador
- Facebook
- Four W's Fishing Team, LLC - Willard Franklin III, LinkedIn
- Handshake
- Hiring Event/Workshop
- Indeed.com
- Job Board
- Job Fair
- LinkedIn
- Newspaper
- Other
- Other State Agency
- Other Website
- Professional Association
- Society of American Foresters (SAF)
- Texas A&M
- Twitter
- University Job Board
- UW College of the Environment
- WDFW Employee
- WDFW Recruiter
- WDFW Website
- Word of Mouth
- WorkSource
11
Tell us more - kindly share which website, organization, person, or other source led you to this job posting.
12
Are you currently a permanent employee of the Department of Fish and Wildlife? ("Permanent employee" means an employee who has attained permanent status in a job classification upon successful completion of a probationary, trial service, or transition review period; this would include "Seasonal Career" appointments).
Required Question
