Salary: $5,241.00 - $7,043.00 Monthly
Location : Multiple Locations Statewide, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number: 2025-01541
Department: Dept. of Fish and Wildlife
Opening Date: 02/26/2025
Closing Date: 3/12/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
DescriptionTitle- Habitat Biologist
Classification- Fish and Wildlife Biologist 3
Job Status- Full-Time / Permanent
Number of Vacancies- Two (2)
WDFW Program- Habitat Program
*Duty Station- Multiple Locations
*Apply to one (1) or both locations by submitting one (1) application.
One (1) Position - Winthrop, Washington - Okanogan County
One (1) Position - Wenatchee, Washington - Chelan County
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Hydraulic Project Approval (HPA) compliance check for a shoreline armoring project with a barge landing in Puget Sound - Photo Credit: WDFW
As a senior-level Habitat Biologist, you will play a key role in conserving and managing fish, wildlife, and their habitats by providing expert technical assistance and overseeing the implementation of the Hydraulic Project Approval (HPA) permitting process.With your knowledge and experience, you will review and comment on a variety of environmental documents related to Forest Practices, Growth and Shoreline Management Acts, and State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA)/National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) documents. By applying best available science and adaptive management strategies, this position works to protect and restore ecosystems for long-term sustainability. Through cross-disciplinary collaboration and community partnerships, it integrates ecological, social, and economic perspectives to drive effective conservation efforts.What to Expect-Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Habitat Biologist will,
Administer the Hydraulic Project Approval (HPA) Process:In accordance with Chapter 77.55.RCW, 77.57.RCW, and Chapter 220-660-WAC (Hydraulic Code Rules).
- Review permit applications and conduct field reviews to provide technical assistance to applicants.
- Recommend Best Management Practices and mitigation measures to minimize or eliminate impacts on fish life, including alternative project designs and/or techniques.
- Coordinate project proposal reviews with agency personnel, including biologists, scientists, and environmental engineers, to ensure compliance with agency policies and assess impacts on fish and wildlife habitats.
- Issue, process, condition, or deny standard, expedited, and emergency HPAs in accordance with the Revised Code of Washington (RCW), Washington Administrative Code (WAC), agency policy, and procedures manual.
- Conduct project compliance and monitoring field reviews during and after construction.
- Assist WDFW Compliance Inspectors or Enforcement in identifying and resolving Hydraulic Code violations, including serving as an expert witness in court cases involving HPA non-compliance or appeals.
Review and Comment on County/City Critical Areas Ordinances and Shoreline Master Program Updates and Implementation Activities:As authorized under the Growth Management Act (GMA) and Shoreline Management Act (SMA):
- Foster collaborative partnerships with City and County planners to incorporate best available science into land use ordinances.
- Provide written comments to local government planning staff on land use decisions under the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA), City/County Shoreline Management Plans, and Critical Area Ordinances.
- Assist planners and the public in interpreting and applying Priority Habitats and Species (PHS) management recommendations and mapping.
Provide Biological Expertise to the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for Forest Practice Activities:- Collaborate with state and federal forest management agencies to review Forest Practice Applications (FPAs) for impacts to fish and wildlife habitats.
Serve as a Habitat Restoration and Enhancement Expert for Priority Habitat and Ecosystem Recovery Projects within Assigned Coverage Area:- Lead habitat restoration and enhancement efforts, ensuring project alignment with WDFW's strategic goals and objectives.
WORKING CONDITIONS:Work Setting, including hazards:- Work is performed both in an office and outdoor setting, percentage of office and field work vary seasonally and can reach as much as 80% field work during busy times of the year and less than 30% during other times of the year.
- Fieldwork involves regularly walking short distances (under 1 mile) over rough terrain or occasionally over long distances (several miles).
- Operate field equipment, such as GPS, maps, clinometer, range finder, compass, electroshocking, etc.
- Fieldwork includes safely operating vehicles in off-road driving conditions and conducting fish and wildlife surveys and related tasks in remote forested and aquatic environments, in inclement weather and rough terrain.
- 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 - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM. May be required to work weekends, holidays or after hours for emergency permitting. Occasional evening meetings are also required.
- Often involves 8-10-hour days, sometimes for several consecutive days.
- Flexible work schedule is subject to supervisory approval.
Travel Requirements:Overnight travel may be required. Work hours may extend beyond the standard workday.
Tools and Equipment:Boots, GPS, clinometer, waders, rain gear, computer, phone, and state-assigned work vehicle.
Customer Interactions:- Engage with agency staff, other government agencies, tribal representatives, private stakeholders, special interest groups, and the public.
- Keep management informed of controversial or politically sensitive issues in the region. Consult with supervisors and management before acting or representing the Department on sensitive matters to ensure WDFW management can guide decisions and responses.
QUALIFICATIONS:Required Qualifications: A Bachelor's Degree in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, environmental science, or related field
AND three (3) years of professional experience in fish management or fish research, wildlife management or wildlife research, or habitat management or habitat research.
ORTwo (2) years as a Fish & Wildlife Biologist 2.
Please Note:- A Master's degree in the applicable science may be substituted one (1) year of the required experience.
- A Ph.D. in the applicable science may be substituted for two (2) years of the required experience.
- Closely related qualifying experience may be substituted for the required education on a year-by-year basis.
Certifications/Licenses:Valid driver's license.
Preferred Qualifications:In addition to the required qualifications, our ideal applicant will possess some or all the following:- Knowledge of ecological processes pertinent to the Pacific Northwest.
- General understanding of regulatory processes, including the Hydraulic Code, Growth Management Act (GMA), State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA), and Shoreline Management Act (SMA).
- Capacity and willingness to engage in crucial conversations with agency staff and stakeholders to execute the duties of this position.
- Provide leadership and ideas that continuously improve program processes and be adaptive to changes in the work environment.
- Ability to accept and participate in supervisory direction, including seeking and accepting constructive feedback on performance and making improvements.
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 #2025-01541.
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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
Please select the location(s) below you are interested in applying for. Select ALL that apply.
- Winthrop, Washington - Okanogan County
- Wenatchee, Washington - Chelan County
- All the above
02
In the text below, please confirm the location(s) you are submitting application(s) for and rank them in the order of your preference. (Examples: All locations, no preference. Winthrop, Washington then Wenatchee, Washington).
03
Do you have a valid driver's license?
04
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.
05
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.
06
Select the option below that best describes your professional experience in fish management or fish research, wildlife management or wildlife research, or habitat management or habitat research.
- No experience.
- Less than 1 year of experience.
- 1 - 2 years of experience.
- 2 - 3 years of experience.
- 3 - 7 years of experience.
- 7 or more years of experience.
07
Please briefly describe your professional experience in fish management or fish research, wildlife management or wildlife research, or habitat management or habitat research. ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).
08
Please briefly describe your knowledge of ecological processes in the Pacific Northwest and how they relate to habitat conservation and restoration efforts. ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this knowledge, put N/A).
09
Please briefly describe your general understanding of regulatory processes. Include any experience you have with Hydraulic Code, Growth Management Act (GMA), State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA), and Shoreline Management Act (SMA). ("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
