Salary: $4,653.00 - $6,259.00 Monthly
Location : Clark County - Ridgefield, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number: 2026-04843
Department: Dept. of Fish and Wildlife
Opening Date: 06/10/2026
Closing Date: 6/24/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

Description
Title- Assistant District Wildlife Biologist

Classification- Fish & Wildlife Biologist 2

Job Status- Full-Time / Permanent

WDFW Program- Wildlife Program

Southwest Region 5 - District 10 - Counties Served- Cowlitz, Lewis, and WahkiakumDuty Station- Ridgefield, Washington - Clark County

Please Note- This position is eligible for an additional 15% pay differential when the incumbent is performing low level flight duties or chemical immobilization as noted in the duties listed below.
The salary listed above does not include the 2% pay increase that goes into effect on July 1, 2026.
Learn more about being a member of !
Two deer spotted during an aerial helicopter survey - Photo Credit: WDFW
As the Assistant District Wildlife Biologist for District 10, you'll play a key role in monitoring wildlife populations, implementing conservation and management activities, and supporting science-based decisions that benefit both wildlife and the public.
You'll contribute to a wide range of field and management activities, from conducting wildlife surveys and analyzing biological data to assisting with habitat and population management efforts. You'll also collaborate with colleagues, stakeholders, tribes, partner agencies, and the public to help advance the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife's mission of sustaining healthy, diverse fish and wildlife populations while providing sustainable recreational opportunities for Washingtonians.
This is an excellent opportunity for a wildlife professional who enjoys a balance of fieldwork, data analysis, public engagement, and applied wildlife management in a dynamic and rewarding environment.
What to Expect:

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Assistant District Wildlife Biologist will,
Inventory and monitor wildlife populations:

Assist the District Biologist in developing wildlife surveys for district.
Conduct assigned wildlife surveys.
Observe and assess the health of wildlife populations, including obtaining information and samples needed to identify the presence of disease within wildlife populations.
Compile and analyze survey data (using statistical methods), format and store the data, and prepare summary reports (using GIS and other tools).

Implement wildlife management conservation and recreation activities:

Protect sensitive wildlife from disturbance.
Evaluate habitat quality and quantity and assess population responses to habitat changes.
Implement population augmentation, capture, and translocation.
Assist when needed to dispatch injured or diseased wildlife.

Participate in the development of recommendations for wildlife management and human use of wildlife resources:

Analyze wildlife population and harvest data using statistical methods and population modeling techniques.
Seek input on wildlife-related recreation from all types of user groups.
Develop and communicate wildlife management recommendations.
Provide expertise in wildlife technical issues.

WORKING CONDITIONS:
Work Setting, including hazards:

Work in the field up to 70% of the work schedule across terrestrial, aerial, and aquatic environments, often in inclement weather, while navigating difficult or uneven terrain and performing routine or repetitive tasks.
Walk, bend, and stoop while occasionally carrying up to 40 pounds. Hike alone through rugged terrain, including stream crossings.
Perform aerial and aquatic surveys on small ponds, lakes, and the Columbia River. Conduct aerial surveys from fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters.
Frequently capture and handle a wide range of wildlife species. Load and transport equipment and gear, safely operate firearms, use field necropsy cutting instruments, and handle biological materials that may pose exposure risks.
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 through Friday, 8 am - 5 pm. Available for non-scheduled workweek, travel, and irregular work hours. Occasional evening or weekend work as needed. Schedules may vary based on business needs, time of year, and/or weather conditions.
Travel Requirements:

Frequent travel is required, including overnight stays (e.g., motel, camping).
Tools and Equipment:

Laptops, smart phones, electronic tablets, electronic software forms, personal flotation devices (PFDs), optics, vehicles, boats, snowmobiles, ATVs, and field gear, including hip boots, raingear, leather boots, and flight suits for aerial surveys.
GIS and mapping applications, backcountry and field-orientation tools, and a wide range of technical wildlife monitoring and study equipment.
Firearm use may be required for certain biological surveys or animal euthanasia. Dart guns and traps may be used in animal capture.

Customer Interactions:

Interact with all public interest groups in field and meeting environments.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Required Qualifications:
A Bachelor's degree in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, environmental science, or a closely related field.
AND
One (1) year of professional experience in fish management/research, wildlife management/research, or habitat management/research.
Please Note:

A master's degree or higher in wildlife management, wildlife biology, or wildlife ecology may substitute for the required professional experience.
Closely related qualifying experience may be substituted for the required education on a year-by-year basis.

In addition to the above, the successful candidate must possess the following:
Six (6) months of experience:

Handling and/or immobilizing wildlife.
Working within established procedures and protocols to ensure compliance and completion of tasks or projects.
Conducting field surveys to collect and accurately record data.
Identifying and distinguishing biological and physical features of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians.

Certifications/Licenses:

Valid driver's license.
Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment:

Trainings will be provided and/or facilitated by the WDFW.

Ability to pass a background check, drug screening, and training to receive authorization to use a firearm, including performing humane animal euthanasia as needed.
This position has been designated as one for which possession and use of a department-issued firearm is beneficial 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.
Ability to obtain and maintain the required training and certification to handle and administer animal capture and immobilization drugs, in accordance with RCW 69.50.320, RCW 69.41.080, and Chapter 246-945 WAC.
This position may involve the safe and ethical euthanasia of animals in accordance with established protocols using a firearm or other approved methods.

Preferred Qualifications:

In addition to the required qualifications, our ideal applicant will possess one or more of the following:
One (1) year of professional experience:

Wildlife population relationships and ecology.
Wildlife habitat relationships and their application to management decisions.
Wildlife species identification across a broad range (e.g., birds, mammals, herpetofauna, invertebrates).
Effective written and oral communication with diverse audiences.
Conducting field surveys and collecting biological data under a range of conditions.
Analyzing and interpreting data, including biometrics and population modeling for management recommendations.
Applying wildlife management tools, equipment, and field techniques.

Six (6) months of professional experience:

Applying environmental rules, regulations, and permitting requirements.
Principles of wildlife harvest management.
Wildlife damage management and strategies to reduce wildlife-human conflicts.
Following prescribed protocols and procedures with accuracy and consistency.
Urban wildlife management concepts and practices.
Field necropsy, disease investigation, and mortality location investigations.
Training and mentoring staff, including seasonal or permanent team members.
Using handheld data collection devices (e.g., smartphones, iPads) in the field and entering data using platforms such as Field Maps or Survey 123.
Working with GIS applications, including ArcGIS/ArcMap/ArcPro, to produce maps and spatial analyses.

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 (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- 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: 2026-1234 - 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]360-902-2278 or email [click to reveal email address]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 [click to reveal phone number](855) 524-5627 or
Other questions: If you have other questions regarding this position, please reach out to and reference job #2026-04843.
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AL
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 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 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 01-07-2026
01

Are you currently an employee of the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife? This includes permanent, non-permanent, intern, project, and career seasonal.

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.

A background check and drug screening are required for this position - are you willing to meet this requirement?

Yes, I am willing to meet this requirement.
No, I am not willing to meet this requirement.

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, I am willing to meet this requirement.
No, I am not willing to meet this requirement.

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.

What is your major area of study? If you possess multiple degrees, please list each degree and major. This includes both vocational and college education. (If this does not apply to you, please put N/A.)
07

Please 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 - 5 years of this experience.
I have 5 or more years of this experience.

Please briefly describe 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).
09

Please select the option(s) below if you have (6) months or more of experience in the following. (Select ALL that apply.)

Handling and/or immobilizing wildlife.
Working within established procedures and protocols to ensure compliance and completion of tasks or projects.
Conducting field surveys to collect and accurately record data.
Identifying and distinguishing biological and physical features of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians.
None of the above.

Please briefly describe your experience for each area selected above. Include specific examples such as the type of project, your role, duration of experience, and the methods or tools used. ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).
11

Do you have at least one (1) year of professional experience working with wildlife population relationships and ecology?

Please briefly describe your professional experience working with wildlife population relationships and ecology. Include the species, habitats, or ecological systems studied and your role in the work performed. ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).
13

Please select all wildlife groups you have professionally identified in the field. (Select ALL that apply.)

Birds
Mammals
Herpetofauna (reptiles and amphibians)
Invertebrates
None of the above

Please briefly describe the wildlife survey techniques, field methods, and equipment you have used professionally. Include examples of techniques, how they contributed to project goals, management decisions, or biological monitoring efforts. ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).
15

Do you have at least six (6) months of professional experience in field necropsy, disease investigation, and mortality location investigations?

Please describe a situation involving a field necropsy, disease investigation, or mortality location investigation. Include the species involved, the management strategies you recommended or implemented, and the outcome. ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).
17

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
Hydraulic Institute
Indeed.com
Job Board
Job Fair
LinkedIn
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
X (formerly Twitter)

Tell us more - kindly share which website, organization, person, or other source led you to this job posting.
Required Question

Assistant District Wildlife Biologist - Fish & Wildlife Biologist 2 - Permanent - 2026-04843

Assistant District Wildlife Biologist - Fish & Wildlife Biologist 2 - Permanent - 2026-04843

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