Fish & Wildlife Biologist 2

(Permanent)

The Department of Fish and Wildlife is recruiting to fill one full time, permanent, Fish & Wildlife Biologist 2 position located in the Wildlife Program, Region 2. The duty station for this position is located at Douglas County Wildlife Area Complex, 54 Moe Rd. Brewster, Douglas County.

This position assists the Douglas County Wildlife Area Complex Biologist with implementation of Wildlife Program goals, objectives and assignments consistent with agency goals. The Wildlife Area Complex includes the Wells, Sagebrush Flat and Big Bend wildlife areas encompassing 37,000 acres of WDFW owned and managed lands in 2 counties (Douglas and Okanogan).  This a journey level professional biologist under general supervision that conducts professional biological studies (Surveys wildlife areas for priority wildlife species including pygmy rabbit, greater sage grouse, and Columbian sharp-tailed grouse.); and/or is responsible for monitoring, restoration, management or research of fish, wildlife, lands or habitat. Using predefined methodologies and/or predetermined criteria, biologists in this class also interpret data in relation to laws, rules, and regulations to make decisions in response to emerging situations in the field, on public or private lands. Using established procedures, collects, organizes, and/or provides analysis and assessment of fish, wildlife, lands or habitat management data and actions.

The incumbent may also serve as a liaison for the wildlife area (in the absence of the Wildlife Area Manager), by working with other staff, other agencies and organizations, landowners, agricultural lessees, hunters, and the general public.  The incumbent may also assist with recruiting and supervising wildlife area staff and completing plans regarding habitat restoration and management projects on the wildlife area.  This position promotes WDFW values and recreational opportunities associated with the Wildlife Area Complex.

Duties

Tasks include:

  • Significant responsibility for implementing the wildlife area management plans, to include conducting and overseeing wildlife/habitat surveys and data collection.
  • Assist the Wildlife Area Manager and District Biologists in collecting biological data; trapping, transfer, and releasing wildlife; and conducting priority game and non-game species surveys.
  • Surveys wildlife areas for priority wildlife species including pygmy rabbit, greater sage grouse, and Columbian sharp-tailed grouse.
  • Participate in interagency projects that contribute to the restoration and conservation of fish and wildlife habitat via wildlife area use plans, regulations and actions.
  • Implements adaptive management plans for enhancing shrub-steppe and grassland habitats.
  • Conducts field reviews of restored sites and recommends future management activities.
  • Surveys wildlife areas for invasive vegetation, native T&E plants, and general habitat conditions; and uses predefined methodologies to implement appropriate management.
  • Assures compliance with applicable laws, label restrictions, and record keeping associated with agricultural chemical applications to wildlife areas.
  • Implements Integrated Pest Management Program (IMP) on wildlife areas.
  • Assists with development of grazing plans, agricultural permits, and other land-use permits. Monitors permits and keeps appropriate records.
  • Cultivates native vegetation and food plots using predefined methodologies.
  • Coordinate with Fish, Habitat, Enforcement, and Business Services Program staff to further WDFW’s mission and goals.
  • Assists the Wildlife Area Manager to plan, coordinate, implement, and monitor wetland and other habitat management / restoration projects to benefit wildlife and enhance public recreation.
  • Serve as intra- and inter-agency liaison for the Wildlife Area.
  • Participates on the local WDFW District Team.
  • Helps the Wildlife Area Manager to manage Wildlife Area budgets with accountability, including meeting all reporting requirements, developing work plans, etc.
  • Helps to maintain WDFW infrastructure, including buildings, grounds, roads, signs, irrigation systems, and public use facilities.
  • Repairs, maintains, and operates small and large equipment.
  • Monitors public use on the wildlife area ensuring that access and recreational uses of the wildlife areas are consistent with wildlife and habitat goals.

Principal assistant to Wildlife Area Manager

Qualifications

A Bachelor’s degree in, wildlife management, wildlife biology, wildlife ecology, range ecology, natural resource science, or environmental science
AND one (1) year of professional experience in wildlife/habitat management or research.
OR
A Master’s degree in the applicable science will substitute for the required experience.

Must have or be willing to obtain a valid Washington State Driver’s License.

Preferred/Desired Qualifications:

  • Strong working knowledge and experience with plant identification and monitoring techniques, particularly Eastern Washington native plant species, is highly desirable.
  • Experience in management and enhancement of shrub-steppe habitat is highly desirable.
  • Experience with heavy equipment operation and maintenance.
  • Experience with the use of herbicides.
  • State pesticide license
  • Commercial Driver’s License
  • ATV certification

https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/washington/jobs/1586653/fish-and-wildlife-biologist-2-11542w