Assistant District Wildlife Biologist - Fish & Wildlife Biologist 2 - Permanent - 2025-07516
Salary: $4,653.00 - $6,259.00 Monthly
Location : Clallam County - Port Angeles, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number: [click to reveal phone number]
Department: Dept. of Fish and Wildlife
Opening Date: 10/24/2025
Closing Date: 11/[click to reveal phone number]:59 PM Pacific
Description
Title- Assistant District Wildlife Biologist
Classification- Fish & Wildlife Biologist 2
Job Status- Full-Time/PermanentWDFW Program- Wildlife ProgramDuty Station- *Port Angeles, Washington - Clallam County
*Port Angeles is the current duty station, however, alternative duty stations in Clallam or east Jefferson counties may be considered.Hybrid/Telework- A flexible hybrid schedule may be consideredat the discretion of the hiring manager. However, the successful candidate must be available to report to the duty station as needed.Please note- This position is eligible for an additional 15% pay differential when the incumbent is performing flight duties or chemical immobilization as noted in the duties listed below.
Learn more about being a member of Team WDFW!
Photo Caption: Bull Elk and Wigeon Ducks - Photo Credit: John Gussman
Envision yourself navigating through nature to conduct surveys, respond to wildlife calls, and collect biological samples within Districts 15 and 16, covering Clallam, Jefferson, Kitsap, and Mason Counties.
This is a dynamic opportunity to play a key role in the monitoring, restoration, management, and research of wildlife, habitats, and agency-owned lands.
In this role, you will utilize the data you collect to provide recommendations for wildlife management and recreation opportunities; implement wildlife management, conservation, and recreational activities; and provide information to the public and other agencies.
Photo Caption: Taylor's Checkerspot Butterfly - Photo Credit: WDFW
What to Expect-
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Assistant District Wildlife Biologist will,
Conduct or oversee wildlife/habitat surveys, animal capture and handling, data collection, and habitat improvement projects:
- Conduct surveys to determine abundance, distribution, and population trends of wildlife species.
- Organize and conduct research and management projects to determine behavior, abundance, distribution, survival, mortality, and other ecological aspects of wildlife.
- Implement field projects designed to improve or create wildlife habitats.
- Organize and conduct activities associated with recreation, habitat monitoring, or restoration.
- Conduct field checks of harvested game species according to Wildlife Program requirements, including sealing, aging, and collecting biological samples.
- Respond to sick, injured, dead, and general wildlife calls or concerns.
- Use chemical immobilization drugs and related equipment (e.g., dart guns) for capturing wildlife.
- Euthanize wild animals when necessary for humane, scientific, or other management purposes, at times requiring the use of firearms.
- Using biologically based skills, conduct complex inspections and investigations (such as necropsies of dead animals in various states of decay) to gather biological samples or determine the cause of mortality.
- Coordinate activities with federal, state, local, and tribal governments, non-governmental organizations, and private landowners.
Provide technical assistance and support related to species and habitats through training, the writing of technical plans and reports, and compiling/analyzing data used within Districts 15 and 16:
- Compile, evaluate, analyze, and graph data using established statistical methods and research procedures.
- Draft technical report sections for review.
- Analyze and interpret impacts on wildlife.
- Assist with formulating hunting seasons and changes in regulations.
- Supervise volunteers and interns, review technical reports, and work with technical committees to improve protocols.
- Assist with completing land acquisition and easement grants.
- Respond to public inquiries, conduct wildlife presentations, and participate in educational events.
Working Conditions:
Work Setting, including hazards: Approximately 65% fieldwork and 35% office work.
Field work includes wildlife areas, open water, timber, brush, grasslands, wetlands, rugged terrain, and high-traffic areas. Hike up to five (5) miles while carrying equipment (e.g., binoculars, field supplies, lightweight ladders) or transporting supplies (e.g., kayaks or grouse wing barrels), uneven terrain, slippery rocks, steep banks, sticky mud, stinging vegetation, insects, biting or pinching animals, and possible encounters with wildlife. May work independently in remote locations-following strict check-in/out procedures-or in partnership with staff and volunteers when conditions are more hazardous. Duties are conducted in varying weather conditions, both day and night.
This position may involve working in or near water, including tasks that require navigating, negotiating, and performing duties related to water environments.
Depending on training and experience, this position may operate motorized watercraft (<26' aluminum boats, rigid inflatables) and non-motorized watercraft (kayaks, inflatables, canoes). Participate in aerial wildlife surveys in helicopters or fixed-wing aircraft.
Schedule: This is a full-time position with a highly variable schedule based on business needs, time of year, and/or weather conditions. Work may periodically exceed 40 hours per week and be outside core working hours, including evening and weekend work.
Travel Requirements: Travel within Districts 15 and 16 on a weekly basis and periodically travel throughout Region 6. Occasional in-state or out-of-state travel of up to one (1) week in duration may also be required.
Tools and Equipment: Computers and software (including Microsoft Office, ArcMap, Trimble), GPS units, personal locator beacons, and radio telemetry equipment. Standard work trucks, trailers, and motorized/non-motorized watercraft. Navigation tools for remote locations. Hand and power tools, dart guns, and firearms (as assigned). Protective and field gear, including personal flotation devices (PFD), boots, and weather-resistant equipment.
Customer Interactions: Regularly interact with the public while working in the office or conducting fieldwork, including approaching private property, and occasionally encounter uncooperative individuals. Work regularly with tribal biologists and/or on tribal lands. Conduct work on both private and public lands.
Qualifications:
Required Qualifications:
A Bachelor's degree in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, or environmental science
*Including 12 semester hours or 18 quarter hours of coursework involving the study or management of one or more of the following:
- Mammals
- Birds
- Reptiles
- Amphibians
And
One (1) year of professional experience in fish management/research, wildlife management/research, or habitat management/research.
Please note:
- Professional equivalent experience in aquatic invasive species, fish, wildlife, or natural resource management may substitute for the education requirement.
- A Master's degree or higher in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, or environmental science may substitute for the required experience.
- *Please include an unofficial or official college transcript with your application.
Certifications/Licenses:
Valid Driver's License.
Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment:
Trainings will be provided and/or facilitated by the WDFW.
- Ability to pass background checks, drug screening, and training to receive authorization to use a firearm.
- This position has been designated as one for which possession and use of a department-issued firearm is required and essential to performing job duties. Must successfully meet all requirements of agency firearm policy (Policy 7011) and maintain eligibility to possess and use agency-issued firearm(s) at all times while in this position.
- Ability to legally possess an agency-issued firearm and willingness to utilize for euthanizing animals.
- Certification to participate in aerial flight surveys and motorboat operation within 12 months of employment, including cold water survival, underwater egress, and emergency breathing device training.
- Certification to be issued schedule I through IV immobilization drugs.
- This position may require the employee get a rabies vaccination.
Preferred Qualifications:
In addition to the required qualifications, our ideal applicant will possess some or all the following:
Field Experience and Wildlife Management:
- Three (3) years of experience in a natural resources-related field, including at least one (1) year in wildlife management.
- Experience with species-specific management, such as waterfowl, deer, elk, bats, turtles, and pollinator species.
- One (1) year of experience conducting specialized wildlife surveys, such as:
- Capture, handling, and radio tracking of deer and/or elk.
- Bird surveys (especially waterfowl surveys by boat or air).
- Butterfly surveys (especially with Taylor's checkerspot butterfly).
- Bat surveys (emergence counts, colony assessments, capture).
- Turtle surveys (trap deployment and handling).
- Aerial surveys by helicopter or fixed-wing aircraft.
- Use of mist nets for birds and/or bats.
- Deployment of wildlife field cameras, including baited stations.
- Experience in habitat enhancement projects, including wetland restoration (pond excavation, plantings, invasive plant control) and pollinator habitat improvement.
Technical Skills and Tools:
- Experience with handheld field data collection devices (e.g., smartphones, iPads) and applications (Survey123, Field Maps, Collector).
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Access, Teams, Power Apps).
- Experience constructing, managing, and analyzing databases.
- Experience preparing comprehensive written reports.
- Proficiency with ESRI GIS applications (data management, analysis, and production of map products).
Equipment Operation
- Experience operating motorized (vessels <26 feet on inland/marine waters) and non-motorized watercraft.
- Experience towing and trailering boats and/or heavy equipment.
- Skilled in the use of hand and power tools for habitat work.
Field Readiness and Safety
- Ability to work effectively in remote locations, with skills in land navigation and map reading.
- Familiarity with CPR, First Aid, AED, and Wilderness First Aid.
- Knowledge of hunting seasons and regulations.
- Training and/or certification in wildlife immobilization, handling, and humane euthanasia.
- Familiarity with wildlife flight surveys and aviation safety protocols.
- Experience with snorkeling for aquatic surveys.
- Safe use of firearms.
Professional Skills
- Strong ability to manage a heavy workload and competing priorities.
- Effective interpersonal, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
Your application should include the following:
- An unofficial or official college transcript.
- 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:
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 [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 and reference job #[click to reveal phone number].
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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
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
02
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.
03
If your experience includes a Bachelor's degree, did you include your college transcript? If you answer No, your application may not be considered.
- Yes, I included my transcript.
- No, I did not include my transcript.
- I am not utilizing a Bachelor's degree to qualify.
04
A background check and drug screening are required for this position - are you willing to meet this requirement?
- Yes
- No
05
This position requires the ability to legally possess a firearm and the willingness to utilize it for euthanizing animals - are you able to meet this requirement?
- Yes
- No
06
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.
07
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.
08
Does your degree in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, or environmental science include 12 semester hours or 18 quarter hours of coursework involving the study or management of mammals, birds, reptiles, and/or amphibians?
- Yes, my degree includes this coursework.
- No, my degree does not include this coursework.
- I do not have a degree in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, or environmental science.
09
Select the option below that best describes your professional experience in fish management/research, wildlife management/research, or habitat management/research.
- I do not have this experience.
- I have less than 1 year of this experience.
- I have between 1 and 3 years of this experience.
- I have between 3 and 5 years of this experience.
- I have 5 years or more of this experience.
10
Please BRIEFLY list your professional experience in fish management/research, wildlife management/research, or habitat management/research. ("See Resume" is not a valid response. If you do not have this experience, put N/A).
11
Select the option(s) below in which you have at least one (1) year of experience in conducting specialized wildlife surveys. (Select all that apply).
- Bat surveys (emergence counts, colony assessments, capture).
- Bird surveys.
- Butterfly surveys.
- Turtle surveys (trap deployment and handling).
- Capture, handling, and radio tracking of deer and/or elk.
- Aerial surveys by helicopter or fixed-wing aircraft.
- Use of mist nets for birds and/or bats.
- Deployment of wildlife field cameras, including baited stations.
- None of the above.
12
Please briefly describe what species of wildlife you have captured, handled, and/or tracked, and what methods you used. ("See Resume" is not a valid response. If you do not have this experience, put N/A).
13
Please briefly describe your experience conducting aerial surveys or capture work, including type of aircraft, wildlife species of interest, and conditions of the flight. Conditions of the flight could be overwater, in the mountains, at low level, or other situations. ("See Resume" is not a valid response. If you do not have this experience, put N/A).
14
Please briefly describe your experience, both professional and personal, operating motorized and non-motorized watercraft, including type and length of craft and in marine or freshwater environments. ("See Resume" is not a valid response. If you do not have this experience, put N/A).
15
Have you completed a hunter education course? If yes, in what year did you complete the course?
16
This position regularly interacts with hunters, private landowners, and other members of the public regarding the protection of wildlife and habitat. Do you have professional and/or personal experience having these conversations?
- Yes
- No
17
Select the option(s) below that you have experience in. (Select all that apply).
- Handheld field data collection devices (such as smartphones, iPads).
- Field data collection applications (such as Survey123, Field Maps, Collector).
- Constructing, managing, and analyzing databases.
- Microsoft Office Suite (Access, Excel, Teams, PowerApps).
- Preparing comprehensive written reports.
- ESRI GIS applications.
- None of the above.
18
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
19
Tell us more - kindly share which website, organization, person, or other source led you to this job posting.
Required Question