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FISH AND WILDLIFE BIOLOGIST 2 *03837W

Salary
$3,541.00 – $4,644.00 Monthly
Location
Clark County – Vancouver, WA
Job Type
Full Time – Permanent
Department
Dept. of Fish and Wildlife
Job Number
2018-03837W
Closing
5/13/2018 11:59 PM Pacific
Description
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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.

Duties
Assists in conducting professional scientific studies and provides analysis and assessment of data collected to provide impacts or determine analysis that may lead to change of agency goals or mission objectives and/or provide other factors on fish and wildlife conservation, habitat or land use. Gathers and/or analyzes samples to study the effects of particular affect or mitigation strategies that may contribute to fish and wildlife priorities. Summarizes and assesses data using standard statistical procedures and scientific analysis. Develops initial reports of findings and provides recommendations to higher level fish and wildlife staff. This position may respond to routine inquiries or requests for technical assistance regarding the scientific background and technical implementation of agency programs.
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; conducts annual surveys for priority species including elk, band-tailed pigeon, and waterfowl.
  • Implements adaptive management plans for restoring, enhancing, and maintenance of forest, wetland, and meadow habitats.
  • Conducts field reviews of restored sites, recommends and implements future management activities.
  • Surveys wildlife areas for invasive vegetation, native T&E plants, and general habitat conditions; 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.
Qualifications
  • A Bachelor’s degree in wildlife management, wildlife biology, wildlife ecology, forestry, agriculture, natural resource science, environmental science, soil science, range ecology, or closely allied field.
  • AND One (1) year of professional level experience in wildlife or habitat management.

OR

  • Two years of professional experience as a Fish and Wildlife Biologist 1 or Natural Resource Specialist 1 (which requires a Bachelor’s degree involving major study in forestry, agriculture, aqua culture, business, engineering, geology, forestry or a related natural science and one year of related professional experience).
  • A Master’s degree or Ph.D. in wildlife management, wildlife biology, wildlife ecology, natural resource science, environmental science, soil science, range ecology, or closely allied field will substitute for one year of the required experience.

(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. *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 course work includes at least six semester or nine quarter hours of natural science classes.)

Preferred/Desired Qualifications:

  • A strong working knowledge and experience working with forest management, and habitat enhancement and restoration for big game species is highly desirable.
  • Previous experience identifying big game, waterfowl, songbirds, birds of prey, and shorebirds in the field.
  • Background in the use of agricultural practices and equipment is highly desirable.
  • Experience with biological data collection is highly desired.
  • Experience in identifying Western Washington native plant species is highly desirable.
Supplemental Information
Working Conditions:

  • Ability to work in inclement weather, including extreme heat or snow, over difficult terrain, including slippery rocks, steep banks, and sticky mud up to 80% of the time.
  • Ability to walk, bend, stoop, while at times carrying up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to load and transport equipment and gear weighing over 50 pounds over uneven terrain.
  • Ability to use critical thinking in collecting, recording, compiling, and summarizing data.
  • Ability to follow oral and written directions.
  • Ability to visually discriminate when identifying and distinguishing biological and physical features.
  • Willingness and ability to perform routine and repetitive work.
  • Willingness and ability to perform in a punctual and dependable manner.
  • Willingness to perform in a safe and efficient manner.
  • Willingness to accept supervision and correction.
  • Ability to complete required administrative paperwork in an accurate and timely manner.
  • Ability to work independently and as a team member.
  • Ability to safely operate motor vehicles, trailers, farm machinery, shop equipment, small boats, and ATV’s in field situations.
  • Ability to travel up to 10% of time.
  • Willingness to perform aerial surveys.
  • Ability to safely operate firearms
  • Ability to dispatch animals

Union
This position is covered by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) 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 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. 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.

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 and that your priority is making sure 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. Check with the agency human resource office for specific benefit information.
Insurance Benefits
Employees and 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.
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.
 
Vacation (Annual Leave)
You begin accruing vacation starting your first month of employment. Since we value your loyalty, the amount of vacation you can accrue increases the longer you work with us. Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year. Vacation accrues for full-time employees per WAC 357-31-165.

Holidays

Full-time employees are entitled to eleven* paid holidays:

HOLIDAY
DATE
New Year’s Day
January 1
Martin Luther King, Jr’s birthday
Third Monday in January
Presidents’ Day
Third Monday in February
Memorial Day
Last Monday in May
Independence Day
July 4
Labor Day
First Monday in September
Veterans’ Day
November 11
Thanksgiving Day
Fourth Thursday in November & Friday after
Christmas Day
December 25
Personal Holiday
Employee’s selection each calendar year

*Employees who are members of certain Unions are entitled to an additional personal leave day of their choice. Please refer to specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.

 
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.
Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Paid sick leave may be used for reasons included in WAC 357-31-130.
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information.
01
What best describes your level of education:

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Currently attending college
  • Associates degree
  • Bachelor’s degree
  • Master’s degree or higher
  • None of the above
02
What is your major area of study? If multiple degrees, please list each degree and major.
03
Are you willing and able to load and transport equipment and gear weighing over 50 pounds over uneven terrain?

  • Yes
  • No
04
Are you willing and able to walk, bend, squat, twist, stoop, and reach arms over head often on uneven terrain while at times carrying or operating heavy equipment or tools?

  • Yes
  • No
05
Are you willing and able to work in all weather conditions, including snow and extreme heat or cold, and over difficult terrain including slippery rocks, steep banks, and mud?

  • Yes
  • No
06
Are you willing and able to work non-scheduled hours including evenings and weekends?

  • Yes
  • No
07
Are you willing and able to travel up to 10% of the time?

  • Yes
  • No
08
What best describes your professional level experience in wildlife or habitat management? 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.

  • I have less than 12 months of experience.
  • I have 12 – 23 months of experience.
  • I have 24 – 35 months of experience.
  • I have 36 – 47 months of experience.
  • I have 48 or more months of experience.
  • None of the above
09
Please briefly (1 paragraph) describe your experience in developing and implementing natural resource and land management plans. Include the amount of experience and where you obtained this experience.
10
Please briefly describe your experience in conducting habitat and wildlife surveys. Include the amount of experience and where you obtained the experience.
11
Please briefly describe your experience in planning and conducting weed control activities. Include the amount of experience and where you obtained the experience.
12
Please briefly describe your experience conducting forest management activities.
13
Please briefly describe your experience in managing budgets. Include experience purchasing goods and services, soliciting bids and submitting purchasing documents. Include the amount of experience, the size of the budget, and where you obtained the experience.
14
Please briefly describe your experience in fish and wildlife habitat maintenance activities. Include the amount of experience and where you obtained the experience.
15
Please describe your experience in operating agricultural/farm equipment, pickup trucks, tractors, construction equipment, ATV’s, and pulling and maneuvering small trailers. List the type and size of equipment, the amount of experience you have, and how the equipment was used.
16
Please describe your experience maintaining vehicles, tools and equipment. List the type and how you obtained your experience.
17
What best describes your level of proficiency using a personal computer?

  • Beginner
  • Intermediate
  • Advanced
  • I am not proficient in the use of a PC
18
Do you have a valid Washington State, or other state, driver’s license? (If selected for an Interview, you may be asked to furnish your license and driving record.)

  • Yes
  • No
19
Please verify that you have included the following information in your online application: 1) A chronological resume OR a completed online profile that includes education and employment history 2) A detailed cover letter describing how you meet the qualifications for this position. 3) Detailed responses to all supplemental questions. 4) Three professional references.

  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

Agency
State of Washington
Address
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View Job Posting for Location, Washington, 98504

Phone
View Posting for Agency Contact