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.  Find out more about us and the important work we are a part of at www.wdfw.wa.gov
 
This recruitment is to fill one (1) non-permanent 2-months full-time Scientific Technician 1 position in the Fish Program, Genetics. The duty station is the Natural Resource Building in Olympia, WA.

Tissue dissection and biological tissue preparation
Tasks include: 
Performs specialized genetics laboratory tasks to support and carry out sample processing, data generation and collection, and laboratory maintenance following established procedures.
 
Sample curation and archiving
Tasks include:
Use Excel spreadsheets, Access files, Molecular Genetics laboratory database “Green Database” and PROGENCY software to track, document and update samples/collections submitted to the laboratory for processing.
 
Operation of genetics laboratory equipment
Task include:
Electronic balances, centrifuges, robotics for DNA extraction, quantification and standardization.  Knowledge of equipment for conducting Polymerase Chain Reaction and sequencing analyses.
 
Preparation and distribution of genetic sampling supplies
Tasks include:
Prepare supplies for tissue sampling and preservation in response to outside requests including the maintenance of supply inventory to the lead lab technician for ordering.
 
Laboratory clean-up
Tasks include:
Bleaching, resupply of laboratory bench supplies
 
Other duties as assigned
 
Working Conditions
Work in excess of 40 hours per week is often required to complete lab deadlines.  Night and weekend shifts are required.  Will travel regionally and occasionally statewide.  Maintains a professional working relationship with contract entities.  May involve work in inclement/hazardous conditions; primarily laboratory work; lifting up to
50 lbs; strong hand eye coordination and ability to work with small volumes.
 
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.  
Valid Washington State driver’s license.  

Preferred/Desired Qualification
Four years of laboratory experience.  College level coursework class examples: Molecular or Cell Biology, Chemistry, Biology, Genetics.
 
Experience is based on full time equivalency (i.e., 40 or more hours/week). Part time work is prorated (e.g., 20 hours/week for 6 years = 3 years of experience). Do not count experience that was a part of your educational requirements.

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:

A cover letter describing how you meet the qualifications of this position (generic cover letter will not be accepted)

A current resume (please make it succinct)

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.

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.