Habitat Connectivity Biologist - Fish & Wildlife Biologist 4 - Permanent - 2026-07506
Salary: $5,928.00 - $7,973.00 Monthly
Location : Thurston County - Olympia, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 2026-07506
Department: Dept. of Fish and Wildlife
Opening Date: 09/09/2026
Closing Date: 9/23/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
Description
Title- Habitat Connectivity Biologist
Classification- Fish & Wildlife Biologist 4
Job Status- Full-Time / Permanent
WDFW Program- Habitat Program - Ecosystem Services Division - Priority Habitats and Species SectionDuty Station- Olympia, Washington - Thurston County
Hybrid/Telework- 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 !
Harbor seal hanging out on the pier - Photo Credit: Todd Tallman
Be our expert-level Priority Habitat and Species (PHS) Habitat Connectivity Biologist! In this role, your work will make lasting contributions to the department's goals to conserve and protect a resilient network of native fish and wildlife habitat in Washington state.
As the technical lead for habitat connectivity mapping and planning, you'll apply your expertise in wildlife habitat connectivity science to identify priority areas for connectivity conservation and translate that science into practical tools, guidance, and land-use planning strategies. You'll work across urban and rural landscapes to help protect and restore wildlife movement and build climate-resilient habitat networks.
What to Expect:
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Habitat Connectivity Biologist will,
Incorporate spatial data identifying priority habitat connectivity locations in Washington state into the Priority Habitat and Species (PHS) framework:
- Translate new and existing habitat connectivity data into a format appropriate to PHS applications.
- Develop technical documentation of methods used to create spatial data.
- Develop user guides for application of habitat connectivity data.
- Develop management recommendations for protecting wildlife habitat connectivity priorities within land use and transportation planning context.
Identify spatial data identifying priority habitat connectivity locations in Washington state:
- Identify appropriate existing spatial data to locate areas important to landscape connectivity and barriers to wildlife movement.
- Evaluate and make recommendations about existing spatial data relative to the best available science standard defined in Washington state code (WAC [click to reveal phone number]).
Provide technical assistance for the development and application of wildlife habitat connectivity data in the context of land use planning and land management:
- Provide technical assistance on the applications of PHS habitat connectivity data to internal and external users in the context of local land use planning, transportation planning, growth management, and shoreline management.
Represent the agency in a technical capacity in efforts to create new wildlife habitat connectivity data products and strategies:
- Participate in research activities including data collection, evaluation, and analysis, to identify priority locations for connectivity protection, restoration, and enhancement.
- Participate in working groups developing wildlife habitat connectivity data products, priorities, and implementation strategies.
Working Conditions:
Work Setting, including hazards:
Primarily an office setting, with partial remote work options available. A minimum of 20% of work time is expected to be in person.
Schedule:
Typically Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., or an equivalent schedule. Flexible schedule options may be available after successful completion of the probationary/trial service period.
Travel Requirements:
Approximately 5-10% travel is expected for meetings and field visits to review connectivity project proposals and implementation. May include required travel to locations throughout the state for which carpooling or public transit options are not available.
Tools and Equipment:
Standard desktop or laptop computer workstation and specialized software, such as ArGIS.
Customer Interactions:
Regularly interact with Division and Section-level management, staff from other WDFW programs, Regional Habitat Program staff, city and county planning staff and directors, consultants, other state agency staff, and natural resource and conservation non-governmental organization partners. And occasionally interact with local elected officials and tribal natural resources staff.
Qualifications:
Closely related qualifying experience may be substituted for the required education on a year-by-year basis.
Required Qualifications:
Option 1:
- Four (4) years as a Fish & Wildlife Biologist 3.
Option 2:
- A bachelor's degree or higher in biology, conservation biology, landscape ecology, fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science or management, environmental science, or related field.
AND
- Five (5) years of professional experience in fish management or research, wildlife management or research, or habitat management or research.
In addition, the following competencies are also required:
- Demonstrated success in fostering a collegial, collaborative, and productive work environment with colleagues who are not co-located.
- Excellent time management skills.
- Strategic thinker who also demonstrates close attention to detail.
- Successful demonstration of strong critical thinking skills applied to solving complex natural resources problems.
- Ability to adapt to changing needs or ability to be flexible as needs of the position change.
- Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
- Ability to 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.
Please Note:
- Master's degree in the applicable science may substitute for one (1) year of the required experience.
- A Ph.D. in the applicable science may substitute for two (2) years of the required experience.
Certifications/Licenses:
Valid driver's license.
Preferred Qualifications:
In addition to the required qualifications, our ideal applicant will possess one or more of the following:
Experience:
- Demonstrated relevant experience working in wildlife habitat connectivity conservation.
- Relevant experience may include field research, spatial modeling or analysis, remote sensing, and/or natural resources management within a university, local government, environmental or conservation organization, consulting firm, or state or federal natural resources agency.
- Proficiency with GIS and execute basic spatial analytical tasks in a GIS framework including knowledge of ArcGIS desktop and ArcGIS Online software.
Competencies:
- Expert knowledge of landscape ecology, conservation biology, conservation planning, or similar discipline.
- Expert knowledge of wildlife habitat connectivity science and modeling approaches.
- Demonstrated ability to understand and explain spatial data characteristics and applications.
- Demonstrated ability to conduct spatial analysis and manage large databases.
- Ability to synthesize complex spatial information and develop analyses in written and visual form.
- Ability to perform complex geoprocessing and manipulate large datasets using scripts.
- Knowledge of scripting (such as Python or SQL) to automate spatial analysis tasks.
- Demonstrated ability to communicate complex scientific concepts to policy makers, planners, or other non-scientists.
- Knowledge of principles, methods, and objectives of urban and natural resources planning.
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] or email [click to reveal email address], 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 #2026-07506.
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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. This includes both vocational and college education. (If this does not apply to you, please put N/A.)
05
Please select the option below that best describes your professional experience in fish management or research, wildlife management or research, or habitat management or research.
- I do not have this experience.
- I have less than 3 years of this experience.
- I have between 3 - 4 years of this experience.
- I have between 4 - 5 years of this experience.
- I have between 5 - 9 years of this experience.
- I have 9 or more years of this experience.
06
Please briefly describe your professional experience in fish management or research, wildlife management or research, or habitat management or research. ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).
07
Which of the following best describes your experience working in wildlife habitat connectivity conservation?
- I have no experience in wildlife habitat connectivity conservation.
- I have academic or educational experience related to wildlife habitat connectivity conservation.
- I have volunteer or internship experience related to wildlife habitat connectivity conservation.
- I have professional experience working in wildlife habitat connectivity conservation.
- I have extensive professional experience leading or managing wildlife habitat connectivity conservation projects.
08
Please briefly describe your most relevant experience in wildlife habitat connectivity conservation, spatial analysis, remote sensing, field research, conservation planning, or natural resources management. ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).
09
Please briefly describe your proficiency using GIS and performing basic spatial analysis, including your knowledge and use of ArcGIS desktop and ArcGIS Online software. ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).
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
- Conservation Job Board
- El Informador
- Four W's Fishing Team, LLC - Willard Franklin III, LinkedIn
- Handshake
- Hiring Event/Workshop
- Hydraulic Institute
- 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
- X (formerly Twitter)
11
Tell us more - kindly share which website, organization, person, or other source led you to this job posting.
Required Question