Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Biologist - Fish & Wildlife Bio 2 - Non-Permanent - 2025-08103
Salary: $4,653.00 - $6,259.00 Monthly
Location : Thurston County - Olympia, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Non-Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: [click to reveal phone number]
Department: Dept. of Fish and Wildlife
Opening Date: 11/13/2025
Closing Date: 11/20/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
Description
Title- AISPrevention Biologist
Classification- Fish & Wildlife Biologist 2
Job Status- Full-Time/Non-Permanent
Appointment/Season Length- Seven (7) months - December 1, 2025 - June 30, 2026WDFW Program- FishProgram - Aquatic Invasive Species Section - Prevention UnitDuty Station- Olympia, Washington - Thurston County
Hybrid/Telework- Although this is a hybrid opportunity, the successful candidate must be available to report to the duty station located in Olympia, Washington as needed. The selected candidate may be able to telework/work remotely up to 3 days per week at the discretion of the supervisor.
Learn more about being a member of Team WDFW!
Photo Caption: Invasive mussels on native mussel - Photo Credit USFWS
The Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Division is tasked with preventing the introduction of, and early detection monitoring of marine and freshwater AIS transported into or spread within the state through multiple pathways.
This position serves as the journey level biologist to assist with the early detection invasive freshwater mussel monitoring and AIS hatchery inspections and will assist with AIS field operations in the Prevention Unit. Key measurable objectives are the number of early detection invasive freshwater mussel surveys conducted and hatcheries inspected. Since AIS are not bound by political or jurisdictional boundaries, this position will assist in collaborating with intrastate, interstate, national and international forums on AIS issues to build partnerships with citizens, regulated industry, and local, state, federal and tribal governments.
What to Expect-
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the AIS Prevention Biologist will be responsible for:
Early Detection Invasive Freshwater Mussel Monitoring (EDIFMM)
- Assist the Prevention Unit implementing the Early Detection Invasive Freshwater Mussel Monitoring (EDIFMM) field operations.
- The lead trainer for staff and partners to properly conduct EDIFMM for complex methods.
- Principal responsibility for collection, analysis, and interpretation of data, the development of conclusions and recommendations for management, research or mitigation needs, and the preparation of reports.
- Conducts quality control and quality assurance on all data collected ensuring accuracy and integrity.
- Coordinates and advises external partner's EDMM plans.
- Supervises up to 8 Scientific Technicians at four duty stations and ensures all safety protocols are followed.
- Watercraft operator.
- Operates and tows trailered hot water pressure washers, cargo trailers, and other trailered equipment for training and field operations.
- Support the lead biologist in conducting AIS inspections at WDFW hatcheries
Supervision
- Supervises up to 10 Scientific Technicians at four duty stations and ensures all safety protocols are followed.
- Assigns daily and project-based tasks to Scientific Technicians based on skill level, project priorities, and operational needs.
- Trains staff on field protocols, safety procedures, equipment operation, and data entry standards.
Working Conditions:
Work setting, including hazards: Approximately 50% field and 50% office. Outdoors on water and on land, sometimes independently in remote locations, occasionally during inclement weather, day and night, walking up to five miles on uneven ground, and frequently must be able to lift 75 pounds. This position may involve working in or near water, including tasks that require navigating, negotiating, and performing duties related to water environments. Must safely operate and transport 15 feet to 20 feet watercraft, large equipment up to a 25-foot cargo trailer, flatbed trailers, winches, motor vehicles, and complex hot water trailered pressure washers.
Schedule: This position is full-time, working 40 hours per week. The standard work schedule includes the potential for occasional evening or weekend work as needed. Schedules may vary based on business needs, time of year, and/or weather conditions. May be required to respond on short notice to rapid response AIS emergencies.
Travel requirements: This position requires frequent statewide travel and overnight stays up to five days at times.
Tools and Equipment: Desktops, laptops, smart phones, electronic tablets, electronic software forms, and satellite messengers.
Standard field sampling gear, complex mobile water quality laboratory, eDNA, and non-electronic biological and environmental sampling devices.
Customer interaction: Interacts with the public on a regular basis conducting outreach and educational events, presentations, and monitoring. Occasionally is confronted with citizens that are non-compliant or not cooperative.
Qualifications:
Required Qualifications:
A Bachelor's degree in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, or environmental science and one (1) year of professional experience in fish/wildlife/habitat management or research
Note: A master's degree or higher in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, or environmental science will substitute for one to two years of the required experience. Closely related qualifying experience may be substituted for the required education on a year-by-year basis.
Licenses: Valid driver's license
Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment:
- WA State Boater Education Card (within 3 months of hire).
- First Aid Certification (within 3 months of hire).
- Successful completion of agency training and/or certification for assigned watercraft when training is available.
Preferred Qualifications:
In addition to the required qualifications, our ideal applicant will possess one or more of the following:
- Experience supervising staff
- Three (3) years of experience in a natural resources-related field.
- Two (2) years of experience in:
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- Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) management.
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- Monitoring zebra and quagga mussels.
- Developing and managing biological studies or statewide management actions.
- Preparing technical or comprehensive written reports.
- Delivering public presentations and participating in outreach or stakeholder engagement.
- Managing a heavy workload and competing priorities.
- Database development, data management, and analysis.
- Software such as ArcGIS, Microsoft Access, Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Teams, and iForms.
- Handheld GPS units, mobile devices, and computers.
- Operating and towing 4x4 vehicles, boats, trailers, and equipment such as hot water pressure washers.
- Working in outdoor environments and variable weather conditions.
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 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: [click to reveal website 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 RCW [click to reveal phone number] 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 [click to reveal email address]
- 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: [click to reveal phone number] - Biologist 1 - Veteran)
- Include your name as it appears on your application in careers.wa.gov.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Employer
As 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 [click to reveal phone number] or email [click to reveal email address], or the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) at [click to reveal phone number].
Technical Difficulties: If you are having technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application, please call NEOGOV toll-free at [click to reveal phone number] or .
Other questions: If you have other questions regarding this position, please reach out to
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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 Benefits
Employees 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 Compensation
State 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 Security
All 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 Forgiveness
If 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 [click to reveal phone number].
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 Leave
Washington 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, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.
Additional Leave
Leave Sharing
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 07-21-2025
01
1 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
2 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
3 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
4 Which of the following best describes your professional experience in fish/wildlife/habitat management or research? Note: this does not include academic experience as a requirement of your degree.
- Less than one (1) year
- 1-3 years
- 3-5 years
- 5-7 years
- 7-9 years
- More than nine (9) years
- No experience
05
5 Please briefly describe your professional experience in fish/wildlife/habitat management or research. Include relevant dates of employment and duties relating to the position you are applying for. ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).
06
6 Which of the following best describes your experience managing aquatic invasive species?
- Less than one (1) year
- 1-3 years
- 3-5 years
- More than five (5) years
- No experience
07
7 Do you have experience monitoring zebra and quagga mussels?
- Yes
- No
08
8 Please briefly describe your experience operating and towing 4x4 vehicles, boats, trailers, and equipment such as hot water pressure washers. ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).
09
9 Please briefly describe your experience developing and managing biological studies or statewide management actions. ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).
10
Do you have experience working in a supervisory role?
- Yes
- No
11
Please briefly describe your experience supervising staff. ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).
12
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
- Four W's Fishing Team, LLC - Willard Franklin III, LinkedIn
- Handshake
- Hiring Event/Workshop
- Indeed.com
- Job Board
- Job Fair
- MHCC - Mount Hood Community College
- Newspaper
- Other
- Other State Agency
- Other Website
- Professional Association
- Society of American Foresters (SAF)
- Texas A&M
- University Job Board
- UW College of the Environment
- WDFW Employee
- WDFW Recruiter
- WDFW Website
- Word of Mouth
- WorkSource
13
Tell us more - kindly share which website, organization, person, or other source led you to this job posting.
14
10 Are you currently an employee of the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife? This includes permanent, non-permanent, intern, project, and career seasonal.
- Yes
- No
Required Question