• Assist in a field crew of 2 to 6 surveying for stream-associated amphibians, Western Toads in streams and rivers of all sizes, and off-channel wetlands for fish and amphibians.
• Hike off-trail through dense vegetation on steep slopes, harvested areas, and wetlands to access sites.
• Conduct rubble-rouse surveys in steep headwater streams, kneeling and bending for extended periods.
• Boat or wade river networks and ponds safely using non-motorized craft while surveying.
• Drive daily via logging roads and navigate complex undeveloped road networks.
• Collect, classify, and record biotic and habitat data on various devices or paper.
• Using logic, knowledge of the project area, and established quality control methods, evaluate data for completeness, reasonableness, reliability, accuracy, consistency and comparability with other data.
• Work respectfully with private landowners while surveying on or near their property.

• Conduct field surveys for aquatic species by both visually and audibly identifying and distinguishing biological and physical features.
• Do field work for extended time on hands and knees, bending, squatting, walking and crawling through these and other similarly challenging environments carrying and deploying field equipment of up to 40 lbs.
• Tolerate inclement weather and difficult field conditions, including working in clear cuts and wetlands.
• Collect genetic tissue samples from captured amphibians and fishes.
• Operate common electronic and scientific equipment to collect data.
• Follow prescribed protocols and procedures, making independent judgments in the field as needed.
• Use critical thinking to collect, record, compile, and summarize data meticulously.
• Effectively practice quality control methods to evaluate data for completeness, reasonableness, reliability, accuracy, consistency and comparability with other data.
• Perform routine and repetitive work in a punctual and dependable manner.
• Follow oral and written directions and consistently apply excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Work independently as required and accept supervision as part of a team of 2-6 persons.
• Maintain a professional relationship with coworkers, landowners, and collaborators.
• Think and act in a safe manner.
• Drive 4WD vehicles on logging roads utilizing a CB radio for safety.
• Safely operate non-motorized watercraft in moderate river currents.
• Abide by all applicable agency policies.

Preferred/Desired Qualifications:
Well-qualified candidates will have:

• Experience conducting aquatics field research, preferably in the Pacific Northwest.
• Familiarity with lentic and lotic habitats associated with stream systems, especially those in alluvial floodplains.
• Knowledge of principles and procedures of biological research.
• Varied natural history experience including animals and plants, both locally native and non-native.
• Experience safely and humanely capturing fish and amphibians using varied nets, seines, minnow traps and electrofishing backpacks under standard protocols.
• Familiarity with technology including Windows computers, MS office software, iOS handhelds/apps(iPads), digital cameras, GPS, laser range finders, etc.
• Ability to navigate (by vehicle or foot) throughout the landscape to reach remote study locations using primitive (map/compass) and modern (GPS/nav apps) means, and record location data on maps.
• Emotional intelligence and ability to interact positively with entire community, including your crew.
• Knowledge of geography, culture, and history of the Chehalis Basin.

The successful candidate must be willing and able to:

• Safely work in all weather conditions including extreme heat or snow and sometimes over difficult terrain and surfaces in less than desirable landscapes up to 95% of the time.
• Work schedule is typically 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Monday – Thursday.
• Spend extended time on hands and knees, bending, walking and crawling.
• Transport equipment weighing up to 40 pounds over long distances and uneven terrain.
• Travel by vehicle up to 200 miles per day to survey locations.
• Safely operate motor vehicles and small boats/kayaks.
• Work both independently and in a team environment.
• Communicate effectively with co-workers, other agency staff, and the public.
• Selected candidates will receive training for safety, agency policies and procedures, survey protocols, and species identification.

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.

How to Apply
To apply for this position you MUST complete your profile at www.careers.wa.gov.
If you do not fill out the application profile employment history section and provide references in the application profile, then please attach the following to your profile before completing the online application:

• A current resume (please make it succinct)
• Three professional references (personal references do not count as professional).
• A Cover Letter describing how you meet the qualifications.

Please ATTACH a cover letter describing how you meet the qualifications of this position (generic cover letter will not be accepted). Failure to attach a cover letter will eliminate you from continuing to compete for the position.

Please note:  Failure to follow the above application instructions will lead to disqualification. Please do not include any attachments other than the ones requested above. E-mailed documents will not be accepted after the closing of the recruitment or 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.