Fish Passage Scoping Biologist - Fish and Wildlife Biologist 4 - Permanent - Two Openings -*05184-24

Salary: $5,341.00 - $7,184.00 Monthly

Location : Thurston County - Olympia, WA

Job Type: Full Time - Permanent

Job Number: 2024-05184

Department: Dept. of Fish and Wildlife

Opening Date: 04/25/2024

Closing Date: 5/16/2024 11:59 PM Pacific

Description

TWO (2) OPENINGS
FULL-TIME/PERMANENT
FISH PASSAGE SCOPING BIOLOGIST
FISH AND WILDLIFE BIOLOGIST 4 (BIO 4)

Fish ProgramOlympia, Washington - Thurston County

Conduct biological evaluations on Wildlife Areas, Water Access Areas, Hatcheries, private lands, local jurisdictions, and Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) highways.

Evaluate techniques, offer management solutions, conduct project assessment and scoping work of fish passage barriers.

Recommend project alternatives for fish passage barrier correction and screenings to preserve, protect, perpetuate, or enhance resources.

Fish Passage Restored - Credit: WDFW

Picture yourself,

As the expert-level biologist that works independently with significant on-going leadership responsibility while contributing to watershed-level fish passage restoration.

This is an opportunity,

Todirect, develop, evaluate, and manage statewide biological studies, research, resource assessments, policies, legislation, regulation, and assist with the development of legal strategies.

You thrive on building collaboration and teamwork,

Work with interdisciplinary teams of engineers, biologists, and geomorphologists to evaluate fish passage projects to ensure fish, wildlife and habitat resources are considered and protected.

We are seeking a candidate,

Who models WDFW values: Accountability, Service, Professionalism, Integrity, Respect, and Empathy (ASPIRE).

Duties

Some of what our Fish Passage Scoping Biologist will enjoy doing,

Provide statewide fish passage technical assistance to agency staff, partners, and others regarding the fish passage requirements of the various life stages of indigenous fish:

• Review inventory data to ensure accuracy, work with project engineers to ensure all appropriate correction options are considered during project scoping and evaluate potential design options relative to project goals, legal obligations, resource benefits and cost.
• Conduct site visits and barrier assessments to evaluate projects and collect necessary data.
• Provide technical information on species biology, life history and habitat requirements, and the appropriate and applicable fish passage restoration techniques given the site conditions and the species and life history stages present.
• Participate on WDFW/WSDOT fish passage design team. Issue Hydraulic Project Approval (HPA) permits for WSDOT injunction barrier correction projects.
• Support the work associated with the Fish Barrier Removal Board as assigned, including priority watersheds.

Provide program assistance and support, fulfill contractual deliverables assigned:

• Manage fish passage data and update FPSDI database, including submitting repair data for barrier corrections.
• Conduct compliance checks on completed projects.
• Inspect fishways on occasion, conduct spawner and habitat surveys.

• Provide project input from information derived from fish passage and screening assessment protocols.

Represent the division and the agency in assigned areas statewide. Develop and maintain working partnerships with WDFW programs, other agencies, local governments, and interest groups:

• Develop and implement outreach strategies that promote Fish Passage and Screening Division goals and Fish Barrier Removal Board grant program.
• Work closely with various department programs/divisions and with Tribes, other state and federal agencies, counties, cities, RFEGs, Lead Entities, and others to assist in fish passage and habitat restoration project planning.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Work Setting, including hazards:
  • Field work can vary from 10% to 50% depending upon season and requires working outdoors during inclement weather.
  • Must be able to drive a vehicle to conduct field review of project sites, work in remote forested and aquatic environments, conduct stream surveys, take stream measurements, and other related tasks. These activities can consist of 8 - 10 hour days and could be for several days in a row.
  • Ability to walk over rough terrain for short distances regularly or occasionally over long distances (several miles) and carry a light load (backpack less than 20 pounds and stadia measuring rod) over uneven terrain and thick vegetation.
  • Frequent bending, stooping, and climbing in and out of streams and water areas is required.
  • Must be able to negotiate water in emergency situations.

Qualifications

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• A Bachelor's degree in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, or environmental science.

AND

• Five (5) years of professional experience in one (1) or more of the following: Fish management or fish research. Wildlife management or wildlife research. Habitat management or habitat research.

OR

• Four (4) years as a Fish & Wildlife Biologist 3.

Please Note:

• Professional equivalent experience may substitute, year for year, for education requirement if that experience is related to fish passage barrier corrections, fish passage barrier correction design, fish passage barrier prioritization, stream habitat survey work related to fish habitat, stream habitat restoration, and barrier evaluations.
• A Master's degree in the applicable science will substitute for one (1) year of the required experience.
• A Ph.D. in the applicable science will substitute for two (2) years of the required experience.

Ability to:

• Communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
• Take interest in and understand others' perspectives - easily recognize when others have important information, perspectives, or ideas.
• Demonstrate appropriate assertiveness and be committed to the service of the public, mission, and team.

Certifications/Licenses:

• Valid Driver's License.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

In addition to those required qualifications, our ideal applicant will also have some or all of the following:

Experience and training in the following:

• Salmonid life history, habitat requirements, and habitat enhancement/restoration techniques for salmonids.
• Construction methods of habitat projects.
• Federal, state, and local project environmental permit requirements.
• Aquatic habitat assessment methods and experience collecting biological data.
• Familiarity with fish passage and screening assessment protocols.
• Project management or familiarity with project management techniques.
• Microsoft programs and ArcGIS spatial data analysis methods.

Supplemental Information

Please note: Failure to follow the instructions below may lead to disqualification.

Experience and education selected, listed, and detailed in the Supplemental Questions must be verifiable in the application.

In order to successfully apply for this position, you MUST complete your profile at www.careers.wa.gov and attach the following to your profile before completing the online application:

• A cover letter describing how you meet the qualifications of this position (Generic cover letter will not be accepted).
• A current resume.
• Three professional references.

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: https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents

JOIN THE WDFW TEAM:

Learn about our agencyand the perksof working for WDFW!

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife has some of the most talented people in the natural resource field. We celebrate and value diversity, appreciating that a workforce composed of those from different backgrounds and experiences creates an inclusive environment, strengthens positive relationships with the local community, and brings new perspectives and approaches to fulfilling the agency's mission. We value demonstrated skill in living WDFW values of Accountability, Service, Professionalism, Integrity, Respect, and Empathy (ASPIRE).

WDFW employees may be eligible for the following: Benefits

Medical/Dental/Vision for employee & dependent(s), Public Employees Retirement System (PERS), Vacation, Sick, and other Leave types.

Eleven (11) Paid Holidays per year and one (1) personal holiday if the employee is scheduled to be, or has been, continuously employed by the State of Washington for at least four (4) months.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness, Tuition Waiver, Long Term Disability & Life Insurance, Deferred Compensation Programs, Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP), Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA), and an Employee Assistance Program.

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.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Employer

VETERAN PREFERENCE NOTICE:

To take advantage of veteran preference, please do the following:

• Email a copy of your DD214 (Member 4 copy), NGB 22 or USDVA signed verification of service letter to Elizabeth.Bullard@dfw.wa.gov.
• Subject line must include recruitment number, position, and Vet (for example: #10155 Biologist 1 - Veteran)
• Include your name as it appears on your application in careers.wa.gov.

MILITARY SPOUSE PREFERENCE NOTICE:

To take advantage of military spouse preference, please do the following:

• Notify us of your military spouse status by email at Elizabeth.Bullard@dfw.wa.gov.
• Subject line must include recruitment number, position, and MS (for example: #10155 Biologist 1 - MS)
• Include your name as it appears on your application in careers.wa.gov.

Note: Please blackout any PII (personally identifiable information) data such as social security numbers.

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.

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.

If you are having technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application, please call NEOGOV toll-free at (855) 524-5627 or support@neogov.com.

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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 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, 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 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 12-31-2022

01

Do you have a valid driver's license? Write "Yes" if you possess a valid driver's license, or write "No" if you do not possess a valid driver's license.

02

Please select the option below that best describes the highest level of education you have completed.

• High School Diploma/GED.
• Some College.
• Vocational Degree or Certificate.
• Associates 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

Please select the option below that best describes your professional experience in one (1) or more of the following: Fish management or fish research. Wildlife management or wildlife research. Habitat management or habitat research.

• Less than 3 years of experience.
• 3 years - 4 years of experience.
• 4 years - 5 years of experience.
• 5 years - 9 years of experience.
• 9 or more years of experience.

05

Please briefly describe your professional experience in one (1) or more of the following: Fish management or fish research. Wildlife management or wildlife research. 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 familiarity with fish passage and screening assessment protocols. ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).

07

Do you have experience or training with construction methods of habitat projects?

• Yes
• No

08

Please briefly describe your experience and training in aquatic habitat assessment methods including your experience collecting biological data. ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).

09

Do you have experience or training with Federal, state and/or local project environmental permit requirements?

• Yes
• No

10

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
• 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)
• Twitter
• University Job Board
• UW College of the Environment
• WDFW Employee
• WDFW Recruiter
• WDFW Website
• Word of Mouth
• WorkSource

11

If you selected "Other," please specify the information/person that led you to this job posting.

12

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).

• Yes
• No

Required Question