Salary: $4,410.00 - $5,929.00 Monthly
Location : Thurston County - Olympia, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number: 2024-11192
Department: Dept. of Fish and Wildlife
Opening Date: 10/01/2024
Closing Date: 10/13/2024 11:59 PM Pacific
DescriptionOpenings: Three (3) positions
Working Title- Assistant Wildlife Diversity Species Lead
Classification- Fish & Wildlife Biologist 2
Job Status- Full-Time/Permanent
WDFW Program- Wildlife Program - Diversity Division
Duty Station- *Olympia, Washington - Thurston County
* Although this is a hybrid opportunity, the successful incumbent must reside within the State of Washington and must be available to report to the Olympia, Washington headquarters building as needed.
Learn more about being a member of
Team WDFW!
Photo Caption: Monarch Butterfly on Gray Rabbitbrush - Photo Credit: WDFW
Embrace this role to support conservation of species of greatest conservation need by providing technical assistance, scientific background, and facilitating implementation of agency programs and policies.
Be a central figure in the planning, recovering, conserving, and managing Species of Greatest Conservation Need.
We are seeking candidates to support the Wildlife Diversity Division species leads with coordination and implementation of survey, monitoring, and recovery projects as well as preparation of foundational documents like recovery plans and status reviews.
WHAT TO EXPECT -These are not field-based positions. While there will be occasional field work, these positions support the species leads and the Wildlife Diversity Division in the coordination of surveys, monitoring, recovery actions state-wide. Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, this position will:
With a focus on invertebrate Species of Greatest Conservation Deed, forest birds and mammal Species of Greatest Conservation Need, or shrubsteppe obligate Species of Greatest Conservation Need, and under the guidance of the Biologist 4 Species Leads, assist in drafting of foundational documents.- Procure and prepare information.
- Literature review.
- Data compilation and synthesis.
- Reaching out to partners for contribution.
- Writing sections of documents.
Under direction from Wildlife Diversity Division Species Leads or division management, support statewide conservation, surveys, monitoring and recovery.- Support regional implementation of Species of Greatest Conservation Need survey and monitoring protocols-preparing documentation, training, materials for surveys.
- Coordinate specific assignments in collaboration with conservation partners.
- Participate in planning, and implementation of on the ground conservation and recovery actions.
- Facilitate data management, entry, and cleaning in preparation for analyses.
- Communicate priorities with partners and track implementation.
- Documentation of decision processes to maintain institutional knowledge.
With a focus on invertebrates Species of Greatest Conservation Need, forest birds and mammals Species of Greatest Conservation Need, or shrubsteppe obligate Species of Greatest Conservation Need, provide technical guidance to internal and external conservations partners and collaborators.- Maintain familiarity with data, products, and information for the position's species, habitats, and systems.
- Support data stewardship in institutional systems.
- Contribute to conversations and decisions on management and recovery actions.
- Outreach to partners and public communicating the divisions values and priorities.
Within your role as a biologist in the Diversity Division, and a contributing member of our group, participate fully in team administration and guidance.- Participate as an engaged member of the Diversity Division, respectfully supporting our colleagues in delivery of our shared mission, vision, and functions.
- Participate in Division planning and prioritization.
Working Conditions:Work setting: Work is primarily performed in an office environment, with periodic outdoor work during species- and habitat-specific field seasons.
Schedule: Typically, Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM.
Travel requirements: Periodic state-wide or regional travel and occasional attendance at evening meetings.
QUALIFICATIONS: Required Qualifications:A Bachelor's degree in wildlife management, natural resource science, or environmental science.
And One (1) year of professional experience in wildlife or habitat management or research.
Please note: A Master's degree or higher in the applicable science will substitute for the required experience. Closely related qualifying experience may be substituted for the required education on a year-by-year basis.
License:Valid driver's license.
Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment:Successful completion of agency training and/or certification for first aid/CPR.
Job knowledge:- Wildlife population relationships and ecology.
- Wildlife habitat relationships.
- Wildlife survey methods and appropriate statistical analysis.
- Wildlife species identification.
- Wildlife management tools and field techniques.
- Data management and statistical programs such as MS Access, MS Excel, and R.
- ArcGIS spatial data management and manipulation.
- Proficient with MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Preferred Qualifications:In addition to the required qualifications, our ideal applicant will possess some or all the following:A Master's degree in wildlife biology/management or a closely related field.
Your application should include the following:- A completed online application.
- An up-to-date resume (chronological preferred) showcasing how your qualifications align with the job requirements.
- 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 - WFSE: This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement between the State of Washington, Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE). This recruitment may be used to fill positions in addition to those listed.
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 #2024-11192.
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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? Write "Yes" if you possess a valid driver's license, or write "No" if you do not possess 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 professional experience in wildlife or habitat management or research.
- 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 between 2 years and 3 years of this experience.
- I have between 3 years and 4 years of this experience.
- I have between 4 years and 5 years of this experience.
- I have 5 years or more of this experience.
05
Please briefly list where you gained your professional experience in wildlife or habitat management or research. 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
Which specialty/focus are you most interested in? Select all that apply.
- Invertebrate Species of Greatest Conservation Need.
- Forest bird and mammal Species of Greatest Conservation Need.
- Shrubsteppe obligate Species of Greatest Conservation Need.
07
Select the programs below in which you are proficient. Select all that apply.
- ArcGIS.
- Microsoft Access.
- Microsoft Excel.
- Microsoft PowerPoint.
- Microsoft Word.
- R.
- None of the above.
08
Select the options below in which you possess job knowledge. Select all that apply.
- Wildlife population relationships and ecology.
- Wildlife habitat relationships.
- Wildlife survey methods and appropriate statistical analysis.
- Wildlife species identification.
- Wildlife management tools and field techniques.
- None of the above.
09
Please briefly describe your work experience with field identification of invertebrates and pollinators of Washington. 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.
10
Do you have professional experience with surveying wildlife?
11
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
12
Tell us more - kindly share which website, organization, person, or other source led you to this job posting.
13
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