Salary: $3,477.00 - $4,632.00 Monthly
Location : Thurston County - Olympia, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Non-Permanent
Job Number: 2025-00562
Department: Dept. of Fish and Wildlife
Opening Date: 01/21/2025
Closing Date: 2/3/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
DescriptionNumber of Vacancies: Two (2) positions
Working Title- Aquatic Research Technician
Classification- Scientific Technician 2
Job Status- Full-Time/Non-Permanent
Appointment/Season Length- 6.25 Months
- March 3, 2025 - September 11, 2025
WDFW Program- Habitat Program - Priority Habitats and Species Research Section
Duty Station- Olympia, Washington - Thurston County
Learn more about being a member of
Team WDFW!
Photo Caption - Northwestern Salamander - Photo Credit: S. Anderson, Mt. Rainier - National Park Service
Picture yourself conducting biological surveys, including for amphibians, birds, macroinvertebrates, and beavers (i.e., diversity, demographics, condition, genetic tissue sample), and their habitats.
These positions are opportunities to conduct aquatic surveys for wildlife and in-water and upland habitat assessments using established procedures and criteria.
We are seeking candidates to assist on a variety of projects within the Priority Habitats and Species Research Section of the Habitat program, including evaluating management practices designed to protect aquatic resources, monitoring occupancy and population statuses for native aquatic species, and improving aquatic habitat in developed and developing landscapes.
WHAT TO EXPECTAmong the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, this position will:
Data collection and data management in support of fish, wildlife, and habitat research and monitoring projects.- Participates in sampling programs designed to understand species richness and abundance in streams, ponds, and other wetlands.
- Conducts fish, wildlife, and habitat monitoring and research under general supervision.
- Installs and maintains sampling equipment and delineates sample units.
- Uses established procedures to characterize wetlands and wetland habitats.
- Monitors water quality, including water temperature, stream discharge and hydroperiod.
- Conducts upland and in-water habitat assessments.
- Installs water and wildlife (e.g., acoustic, camera) monitoring equipment.
- Boat or wade river networks and ponds safely using non-motorized craft while surveying.
Maintains and organizes field equipment and supplies.- Operates WDFW equipment/supplies in a manner consistent with WDFW policies with a focus on safety. Notifies supervisor of damaged, malfunctioning, or lost equipment/supplies.
- Performs routine maintenance and ensures that equipment is functioning reliably and safely.
- Maintains field and other equipment and alerts Supervisor of sampling and staff equipment needs.
Enters, QA/QCs, and summarizes data.- Ensures accurate and complete data collection for self.
- Ensures regular and complete download of data into databases.
- Ensures data quality through checks of completeness and QA/QC.
- Develops summaries of data collection progress.
Working Conditions:Work setting: Up to 95% of the time will be spent in the field or preparing to go in the field during the focal field season. While in the field, hiking off-trail through vegetation that may be extremely dense and up and down steep slopes will be required. Navigating along and within streams and ponds and steep terrain is required. Frequently carry a moderately heavy pack (<40 pounds) that includes sampling equipment (e.g., hand net, iPad, field notebook, instream temperature sensors, measuring tape) and personal supplies (first aid kit, water, lunch, snacks, rain gear), and at times a field laptop. Infrequently required to carry by hand a 5 gallon buckets, dip nets, and rebar. Must be able to negotiate water in emergency situations.
Schedule: Typically, Monday - Thursday, 10 hours per day, 40 hours per week. This position is one member of a field team, there is no flexibility in workdays or hours during the field season.
Travel requirements: Fieldwork will be a mixture of day trips and overnight lodging near study sites. Extensive travel within Western Washington may be required.
Customer Interactions: Interactions with landowners, non-profit, tribal, and local jurisdiction project partners are integral. Maintain positive and productive working relationships with project partners and neighbors adjacent to study sites, and provide proof of access permits if requested.
QUALIFICATIONS:Required Qualifications:Option 1: Graduation from high school or GED including one year of high school science,
and two (2) years of experience as a Scientific Technician 1.
Option 2: Graduation from high school or GED including one year of high school science,
and two (2) years of laboratory or field experience as an assistant to a biologist, chemist, or zoologist.
Please note: College course work involving major study in biology, zoology, fisheries, chemistry, natural sciences, or closely allied field will substitute year-for-year for experience, provided the course work includes at least 6 semester or 9 quarter hours of natural science classes.
License: Valid driver's license.
Preferred Qualifications:In addition to the required qualifications, our ideal applicant will possess some or all the following:- Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (biology, environmental science, ecology, conservation biology, natural resource management, or wildlife management), or two (2) years professional experience conducting field research, familiarity with biodiversity monitoring, and water quality and physical monitoring.
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 (3) professional references with current contact information.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION:In 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 , 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 #2025-00562.
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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?
- Yes, I have a current valid driver's license.
- No, I do not have a current 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 as a Scientific Technician OR your experience as an assistant to a biologist, chemist, or zoologist.
- I do not have this experience.
- I have less than 1 year of this experience.
- I have between 1 year and 2 years of this experience.
- I have 2 years or more of this experience.
05
Please BRIEFLY describe where you gained your experience as a Scientific Technician OR your experience as an assistant to a biologist, chemist, or zoologist. Your answer should be reflected in the work history section of your application. If you do not have this experience, enter "N/A" in the box below. Do not write "See application/resume/cover letter" as those are not valid responses.
06
Please briefly list your professional experience conducting field research. If you do not have this experience, enter "N/A" in the box below. Do not write "See application/resume/cover letter" as those are not valid responses.
07
Please describe your experience with biodiversity monitoring including taxa and/or species. If you do not have this experience, enter "N/A" in the box below. Do not write "See application/resume/cover letter" as those are not valid responses.
08
Please describe your experience with water quality and physical monitoring. If you do not have this experience, enter "N/A" in the box below. Do not write "See application/resume/cover letter" as those are not valid responses.
09
Please select the software you have experience using. Select all that apply.
- R (programming language).
- ArcGIS Online software including Survey123 and Field Maps.
- ArcGIS Pro.
- Microsoft software including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
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
