The 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.
 
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is dedicated to preserving, protecting and perpetuating fish,  wildlife and ecosystems, while providing sustainable  recreational and commercial opportunities dependent on viable fish and wildlife populations.  Each day, WDFW employees facilitate fishing, hunting and wildlife viewing opportunities for millions of residents and visitors.  WDFW’s employees–field and laboratory biologists, geneticists, research scientists, hatchery professionals, policy experts, fully commissioned law enforcement officers, land stewards, lab technicians, property acquisition specialists, customer service representatives and others work throughout the state.  WDFW employees protect and restore critical habitat, strive to facilitate species recovery when necessary, and manage hundreds of fish and wildlife species.  WDFW employees maintain nearly a million acres of public wildlife lands. They interpret, apply and enforce state and federal laws and collaborate with stakeholders to protect fish and wildlife resources. The 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.  Find out more about us and the important work we are a part of at www.wdfw.wa.gov
 
This is a one (1) permanent, full-time Scientific Technician 3 position in the Fish Program, Region 6- Coastal Shellfish Unit.  The duty station is the Willapa Bay Field Station located at 26700 Sandridge Road, Nahcotta, WA 98640.

This position working on the monitoring of Harmful Algal blooms (HAB) meets Objective A of Goal 2 in the current Fish Program Business Plan; “Increase the economic benefits and public participation derived from sustainable fish and wildlife opportunities.”   The HAB’s that the position monitors can occur suddenly, bringing uncertainty to harvest seasons, impacting local economies and reducing harvest opportunities.  This work is critical to the management of the razor clam fishery, one of the highest valued fisheries in the state.

Plans and schedules  the monitoring of harmful algal blooms along the southern half of the Washington coast.
Tasks include:  
Able to select or modify research techniques as needed. 
This includes the collection and analysis of two phytoplankton samples from Long Beach, Twin Harbor, Tokeland and Westport each week. 
Samples may be reduced in winter months as agreed upon by ORHAB participants.
 
Collection/analysis of seawater/phytoplankton and razor clam samples.
Tasks include: 
Collects seawater/phytoplankton and razor clams for analysis.                               
 Analyzes seawater/phytoplankton samples via microscopic observation.                                                                              
Uses judgment to determine phytoplankton genus/species and abundance.  
Using discretion modifies phytoplankton analysis techniques as needed.    
Uses discretion to determine if samples require complex chemical analysis for domoic acid based on type and abundance of phytoplankton present.

Complex chemical analysis.   
Tasks include: 
Uses discretion to determine if/when and what type of chemical analysis is needed.                         
Uses discretion to prepare samples and perform immediate rapid toxin tests.   
As needed prepares samples and performs analysis using Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) technology. 
Prepares samples, calibrates, and uses a flourometer to quantify chlorophyll levels.

Reporting/communicating.  
Tasks include: 
Creates and maintains sample database.
Prepares and submits reports on phytoplankton analysis to government and tribal entities.     
Attends meetings and conferences related to harmful algal blooms as budget allows. 
Provide timely data to project partners.
 
Assist in coastal shellfish management activities as requested.
Tasks include: 
Assists in interviewing fishers to collect harvest data, recording number of diggers, average catch, total catch and size of clams harvested; conducts wastage checks.
Assists in collecting and delivering razor clam samples to Washington Department of Health for analysis. 
If needed, assists in determining razor clam population levels. 
Participates in pre-season commercial Dungeness crab sampling as needed. 
Collect razor clam condition index and maturity data: On a monthly basis coordinate and conduct condition index and maturity studies using established methods.
Provide customer service as needed at the Willapa Bay Field Station
 
Working Conditions
General hours are M-F 8am 5pm.  When toxic phytoplankton events occur this position may be require immediate response in collecting and analyzing additional samples.  This position also assists with monitoring recreational razor clam harvest levels, which require working at very early or late hours on weekdays or weekends. This position interacts with the general public on a daily basis, answer phone calls, providing agency information.
 
The position is required to spend long periods of time using a microscope to identify and count phytoplankton.  The position uses hazardous chemicals such as formaldehyde and acetone for fixing and preparing samples.  The field sampling may begin at very early or late hours (often in inclement weather).  The ability to lift up to 50 pounds is regularly required.  Motion sickness is possible on shipboard sampling trips.  This position is required to spend long hours driving to collect plankton samples often in dark and inclement weather.  Valid Washington State driver’s license

Union
This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement between the State of Washington, Department of Fish & Wildlife, and the Washington Association of Fish and Wildlife Professionals (WAFWP).  As a condition of employment you must either join the union and pay union dues, or pay the union a representational or other fee within 30 days of the date you are put into pay status.

Graduation from high school or GED, including one year of high school science and two years of experience as a Scientific Technician 1. 
OR 
Graduation from high school or GED including one year of high school science and two years of laboratory or field experience as an assistant to a biologist, chemist, or zoologist. 

College course work involving major study in biology, zoology, fisheries, chemistry, natural sciences, or closely allied field will substitute, year for year, for experience, provided the course work includes at least six semester or nine quarter hours of natural science classes.  

Preferred/Desired Qualifications:
Prefer a minimum of six months experience and demonstrated ability in Northwest coastal phytoplankton identification with training accomplished under the guidance of recognized experts in the discipline.

To 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:
 
Cover letter on how you meet the qualifications.

A resume

Three professional references (personal references do not count as professional)

Please note:  Failure to follow the above application instructions will lead to disqualification.  E-mailed documents will not be accepted in lieu of attaching your documents to the online profile.
Upon submission of your online application, you will immediately receive a confirming e-mail.  You will then be notified via e-mail of your status during the process.  In addition to the e-mail notifications, you can check the status of your application at any time by visiting your online profile at www.careers.wa.gov.  Due to the high volume of applications that we receive, we ask your understanding and encourage you to use the online process and avoid calling for information.   
 
Please note that initial screening will be solely based on the completeness of application materials submitted and the contents and completeness of the “work experience” section of your application in NeoGov. A resume will not substitute for the “work experience” section of the application. The information provided in your application must support your selected answers in the supplemental questions. Responses not supported in your application may disqualify you from consideration for employment in this position. All information will be verified and documentation may be required.

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 may call (360) 902-2276 or the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) at (800) 833-6388.