Habitat Biologist - Fish & Wildlife Biologist 2 - Permanent - 2026-04517
Salary: $4,653.00 - $6,259.00 Monthly
Location : Walla Walla County - Walla Walla, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 2026-04517
Department: Dept. of Fish and Wildlife
Opening Date: 05/29/2026
Closing Date: 6/12/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
Description
Working Title- Habitat Biologist
Classification- Fish & Wildlife Biologist 2
Job Status- Full-Time/Permanent
WDFW Program- Habitat Program - Region 1
Duty Station- *Walla Walla, Washington - Walla Walla County
*While this position may offer a telework option, the successful candidate must be available to report to the duty station as needed.
Learn more about being a member of Team WDFW!
Photo Caption - Stehekin - Photo Credit: Zaid Al-Obaidi
Join the WDFW team and help manage, protect, and restore ecosystems for the long-term benefit of both people and wildlife.
This is an opportunity to work across disciplines to solve problems and work collaboratively with our conservation and community partners.
With your experience, you will review permit applications and conduct field reviews to provide project assistance to applicants.
WHAT TO EXPECT -
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, this position will:
Help administer the Hydraulic Project Approval process in accordance with Chapter 77.55.RCW, 77.57.RCW, and Chapter 220-110-WAC (Hydraulic Code Rules).
- Review and provision low complexity permits under the Hydraulic Project Approval (HPA) process in accordance with Hydraulic Code Rules. The incumbent works cooperatively in prescribing appropriate resource protection requirements for the protection of fish life.
- Review and issue low complexity HPA's in accordance with the Revised Code of Washington, Washington Administrative Code, agency policy, and procedures manual.
- Develop effective working relationships with emphasis on clear communication and a cooperative approach to resolving issues related to fish habitat conservation.
- Recommend alternative project designs and/or techniques, BMP's, and measures to avoid, reduce or eliminate impacts to fish life.
- Conduct construction site inspections during and after construction.
Assist Habitat Biologists with providing technical assistance to local governments implementing their fish and wildlife regulations under the Growth Management Act (GMA) and Shoreline Management Act (SMA).
- Provide assistance with writing comments to local government planning staff during the land use decision-making process as part of the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA).
- Foster open collaborative partnerships with City and County planners to incorporate best available science into decision-making.
- Assist City and County planners and the public in using and interpreting Priority Habitats and Species (PHS) mapping.
- Provide review and comment to local jurisdictions on Habitat Management Plans for small and medium-scale projects in accordance with local Critical Areas Ordinances.
- Coordinate with the local jurisdiction to assist landowners to comply with local land use ordinances.
Assist Habitat Biologists working on Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Forest Practices reviews.
- Assist regional Fish and Wildlife Biologist 3's with the review of plans, permits and actions permitted by the Washington Dept. of Natural Resources, and other agencies involved in forest management activities. Promote a strong sense of collaboration and teamwork.
- Provide assistance with DNR Concurrence Reviews for impacts to fish habitat.
- Provide assistance in Water Type Modification Interdisciplinary teams, applying advice on fish habitat conditions.
Assist Habitat Biologists with providing technical assistance for salmon recovery projects.
- Assist regional Fish and Wildlife Biologist 3's with habitat restoration groups on various habitat restoration proposals.
- Provide information on fish life histories and habitat requirements, terrestrial and aquatic ecosystem functions, and promote conservation of fish and wildlife resources to stakeholders.
- Provide technical assistance to restoration groups, governmental agencies, tribes, and other WDFW programs.
Working Conditions:
Work setting: Work is performed in an office and outdoor environment. Physical capacity to work in remote forested and aquatic environments, conducting fish and wildlife surveys and other related tasks. These activities can consist of 8-to-10-hour days, for several days in a row. This position may involve working in or near water, including tasks that require navigating, negotiating, and performing duties related to water environments. Capable of walking over rough terrain for short distances (= 1 mile) regularly or occasionally over long distances (several miles).
Schedule: Typically, Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM. These hours are flexible to accommodate seasonal workload or additional duties as assigned by the regional program manager. Willingness and ability to work extended hours as necessary to complete assignments.
Travel requirements: In the field 25-50% time doing project site visits or traveling to meetings throughout the state. Periods of overnight travel may be required, and work hours may exceed the standard workday. May include extended travel and evening or overnight trips.
Customer Interactions: Agency staff, other government agencies, tribal, private stakeholders, restoration partners, funders, and general public. Interacts with the public on a regular basis while conducting fieldwork and/or site visits. Occasionally may be confronted by citizens that are non-compliant or not cooperative. Must be able to mitigate appropriately, speak effectively, and maintain an interest in fish and wildlife resource management to reach consensus on fish and wildlife issues.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Required Qualifications:
Option 1:
A Bachelor's Degree in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, or environmental science.
And
One (1) year of professional experience in natural resources working with diverse stakeholder groups to achieve conservation goals, or general experience working in fish, wildlife, or habitat management or research. (Note: A Master's degree in one of the areas listed above will substitute for the required experience.)
Option 2:
One (2) year as a Fish and Wildlife Biologist 1.
Option 3:
Five (5) years of professional experience in natural resources working with diverse stakeholder groups to achieve conservation goals, or general experience working in fish, wildlife, or habitat management or research.
For ALL options above:
Valid driver's license.
Preferred Qualifications:
In addition to the required qualifications, our ideal applicant will possess some or all the following:
- Knowledge of ecological processes pertinent to the Northwest including natural history of Washington Salmonids.
- Experience with regulatory processes in Washington. Experience or awareness of the Hydraulic Code, Growth Management Act (GMA), State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA), and Shoreline Management Act (SMA) preferred.
- Demonstrated ability to build professional rapports and partnerships with the public, colleagues, tribes, and local, state, and federal agencies.
Your application must 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: 2024-1234 - 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] or email , 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] or
Other questions: If you have other questions regarding this position, please reach out to and reference job #2026-04517.
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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, 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.
- 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
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.
04
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.
05
Which option best describes your experience as a Fish & Wildlife Biologist 1, professional experience in natural resources working with diverse stakeholder groups to achieve conservation goals, or general experience working in fish, wildlife, or habitat management or research?
- I do not have this experience.
- I have less than 1 year of this experience.
- I have between 1 year and 2 years of this experience.
- I have between 2 years and 3 years of this experience.
- I have between 3 years and 4 years of this experience.
- I have between 4 years and 5 years of this experience.
- I have 5 years or more of this experience.
06
Please list where you gained your experience selected in the previous question. Include the name of the organization(s) where you worked and dates of employment. FOR EXAMPLE: WDFW, F&W Biologist, 2020 - present. If you do not have this experience, enter "N/A" in the box below. Do not write "See application/resume/cover letter" as those are not valid responses.
07
Select the options below in which you possess experience or awareness. Select all that apply.
- Hydraulic Code.
- Growth Management Act (GMA).
- State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA).
- Shoreline Management Act (SMA).
08
Briefly describe your experience with regulatory processes in Washington. If you do not have this experience, enter "N/A" in the box below. Do not write "See application/resume/cover letter" as those are not valid responses.
09
Do you have knowledge of ecological processes pertinent to the Northwest including natural history of Washington salmonids?
- Yes, I have this knowledge.
- No, I do not have this knowledge.
10
Do you have experience building rapport and partnerships with the public, colleagues, tribes, and local, state, and federal agencies?
- Yes, I have this experience.
- No, I do not have this experience.
11
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
- Hydraulic Institute (HI)
- Indeed.com
- Job Board
- Job Fair
- Mount Hood Community College (MHCC)
- 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)
12
Tell us more - kindly share which website, organization, person, or other source led you to this job posting.
Required Question