Salary: $5,241.00 - $7,043.00 Monthly
Location : Thurston County - Olympia, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 2024-13737
Department: Dept. of Fish and Wildlife
Opening Date: 12/10/2024
Closing Date: 12/22/2024 11:59 PM Pacific
DescriptionTitle- Research Fish Biologist
Classification- Fish and Wildlife Biologist 3
Job Status- Full-Time / Permanent
WDFW Program- FishProgram - Ecology and Life Cycle Monitoring Unit
Duty Station- Olympia, Washington - Thurston County
Telework- While this position offers a hybrid work arrangement, the successful candidate must reside within Washington State and be available to report to the Olympia, WA headquarters as needed.
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Chehalis Smallmouth - Credit: Nick VanBuskirk
As a senior-level biologist, you will lead a dedicated team in assessing the interactive effects of stream temperature, climate change, and non-native fish on native fish populations, including salmon and steelhead.In this critical role, you'll plan, develop, and design biological studies, analyze and interpret results, and effectively communicate findings through written reports, oral presentations, and peer-reviewed manuscripts.Your work will directly contribute to the management of fish resources in the Chehalis River watershed, including the Monitoring and Adaptive Management Plan and Washington State more broadly as part of the "Climate Readiness Package."What to Expect-Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Research Fish Biologist will,
Provide Data Collection, Analysis, Interpretation, Communication of Data Related to Non-Native Predatory Fish on the Washington Coast:- Critique, develop, and finalize protocols annually.
- Apply fisheries sampling techniques, including electrofishing, environmental DNA (eDNA), seining, and snorkeling.
- With supervisor or unit leader, apply statistical principles to estimate impacts of non-native fish predators (e.g., distribution, abundance, per capita impacts) and communicate research results in agency reports, peer reviewed literature, and oral presentations.
- Maintain and repair equipment.
- Ensure timely data entry, backup, and quality assurance/control (QA/QC).
- Coordinate stream access with landowners, timber companies, Tribes, and agencies, fostering positive relationships.
- Gain access to stream survey sections by coordinating with private landowners, timber companies, Tribes, and agencies for permissions and gate keys, while fostering positive relationships to facilitate future access.
Provide Data Collection, Analysis, Interpretation, Communication of Data Related to Stream Temperature on the Washington Coast:- Critique, develop, and finalize protocols annually.
- With supervisor or unit leader, apply statistical principles to quantify spatiotemporal patterns of stream temperature.
- Communicate research results in agency reports and oral presentations.
Supervising and Administrative Duties:- Hire, train, and supervise permanent and non-permanent Scientific Technician positions.
- Counsel and settle employee conflicts, enlisting help of supervisor when necessary.
- Ensure staff compliance with agency training.
- Purchase, organize, and maintain project equipment per agency policies.
WORKING CONDITIONS: Work Setting, including hazards: - Most field surveys are conducted as flows are descending in spring and in the summer low flow conditions. Additional surveying for radio tracking fish, stream temperature, or other activities may be conducted year-round and often independently.
- Hike up and down steep slopes while carrying field gear to access field locations.
- Extended exposure to warm and cool temperatures, often working long hours in dry suits or waders.
- Snorkel in rivers with variable flow conditions for up to four (4) miles per day.
- Frequent bending, kneeling, climbing, lifting, and moving heavy objects between 50-100 pounds, including large buckets of water to transport fish, sampling gear, and other equipment.
- Navigate rivers on pontoon boats.
- Dexterity and acute vision, especially when collecting biological samples.
- Safe use of electrofishing equipment and various chemicals, including Tricaine Methanesulfonate (MS-222).
- Must be able to negotiate water in emergency situations.
- Office work is in an office setting.
Schedule: Typically, Monday-Thursday, 10-hour workdays, during the field season that may vary when in the office. Although, work schedules may vary due to adverse weather conditions, such as rain and fluctuating river flow. Length of workdays may vary and may include overnight camping.
Travel Requirements: Daily travel occurs from the office to sampling sites using WDFW vehicles. Some local and regional travel is necessary to pick up sampling gear and attend trainings. Overnight travel is rare.
Tools and Equipment: Hand tools, power tools, global positioning units, computer tablets, eDNA sampling backpacks, radiotelemetry equipment, hydroacoustic gear, fish sampling gear (e-shocking devices, seine nets), and other equipment.
Customer Interactions: Interactions with landowners will occur throughout the season due to the river flows through private property and site access on private property will need to be secured.
QUALIFICATIONS:Required Qualifications: A Bachelor's degree in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, or environmental science
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 substitute one (1) year of the required experience.
- A Ph.D. in the applicable science may substitute for two (2) years of the required experience.
- Closely related qualifying experience may substitute for the required education on a year-by-year basis.
Certifications/Licenses:Valid driver's license.
Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment:- Incumbent must be capable of accomplishing the above duties and tasks while maintaining a safe, healthy, and positive work environment and adhering to WDFW workplace safety policies.
- Obtain WDFW snorkel training and certification, and renewal expected annually.
- Obtain First Aid/CPR certification and be a registered snorkeler according to WDFW policies (training provided by WDFW).
Preferred Qualifications:In addition to the required qualifications, our ideal applicant will possess some or all the following:One (1) year of experience organizing and supervising the work of others.
Experience with:- Training and supervising personnel.
- Acquiring permits for land access and scientific collections.
- Identifying and handling native and non-native freshwater fish species and freshwater fish ecology.
- Electrofishing, snorkeling, seining, and environmental DNA collection.
- Small boats, outboard motors, and hauling trailers.
Ability to:- Apply methods of biological data collection and experimental design.
- Define research problems and determine extent and type of information needed.
- Apply statistical analysis techniques to fisheries research questions and data, and critically interpret results.
- Summarize and communicate research findings into technical scientific reports, peer-reviewed manuscripts, and public forums.
- Use hand and power tools.
- Use software packages, such as R, GIS, and Microsoft Office.
- Manage workloads and schedules for field crews, volunteer staff, organize and prioritize tasks, remain focused and work efficiently.
- Communicate with private landowners to secure site access.
Knowledge of:- Salmonid life cycle and non-native fish ecology.
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 #2024-13737.
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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 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 year - 2 years of experience.
- 2 years - 3 years of experience.
- 3 years - 7 years of experience.
- 7 or more years of experience.
05
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).
06
Please briefly describe your experience level with fisheries research techniques, including your experience with electrofishing, snorkeling, seining, telemetry, and environmental DNA collection. ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).
07
Please briefly describe your experience applying statistical analysis techniques to fisheries research questions and data and communicating research findings into technical scientific reports, peer-reviewed manuscripts, and public forums. ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).
08
Please briefly describe your experience organizing and supervising the work of others - also highlight your experience with training personnel. What has made you a successful leader? ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).
09
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
10
Tell us more - kindly share which website, organization, person, or other source led you to this job posting.
11
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
