Pilots a WDFW research vessel  to conducts test fishing in mark selective fisheries to obtain stock composition (DNA), age structure (scales), length information (legal & sublegal proportions) and hatchery/wild fractions (mark-status proportions). Tests and provides feedback on new equipment and technologies used to collect information Collects and summarizes recreational salmon, marine fish and shellfish fisheries data to meet sampling goals.  The goals are determined by biometricians. Tribal and WDFW biologists use this data to determine resource status and mange fish and shellfish resources.

• Pilot WDFW research vessels to conduct test fishing using a variety of methods (e.g., weight and bait, downrigger, jigging, diver) to mimic the recreational fishing fleet.
• Samples catch to obtain stock composition (DNA), age structure (scales), length information (legal & sublegal proportions) and hatchery/wild fractions (mark-status proportions).  Records locations, hours fished, and methods (test fishing form) or the numbers of boats/anglers and their location (boat survey form).  Assesses an overall health rating to each fish prior to release to aid in our attempts to look at survival of released fish.  Summarizes the amount of time spent on fishing each method. Record data using electronic device. Ensure data is accurately recorded, summarized, and uploaded to headquarters’ database and regional supervisor.
• Operates outboard motor boat including trailering and launching. Ensure safety of self and other samplers while at sea. Follows all rules, safety procedures, and agency policies on operation of vessels at sea. Performs minor routine maintenance on the boat, motor and trailer. Operate GPS, depth finder, AIS, VHF, electronic data collection device.

Sample recreational fisheries for salmon, marine fish and shellfish catch to determine catch per unit of effort and species composition in order to obtain valid sport catch estimates for salmon and marine fish.
Tasks include:

• Interviews as many recreational fishery anglers as possible at assigned boat launch facilities, marinas, and shore-based fishing locations.  Properly implements interview procedures and sampling protocols, and accurately record data on appropriate forms.
• Observes, counts, and accurately identifies all salmon and marine fish species.  Samples all coho and Chinook salmon with electronic coded-wire tags (CWT) detection devices (wand or tunnel detectors).  Classifies, sorts, and enumerates marked tagged, marked untagged, unmarked tagged, and unmarked untagged salmon.  Retrieves snouts with CWTs from Chinook and coho to determine stock specific impacts for fisheries modeling.  Samples recreational salmon catch biological data including DNA, age units, and sex ratios.

Participates in special studies.
Tasks include: Collects additional catch or biological information for salmon, marine fish, or shellfish.  Participates in aerial and boat-based effort surveys for selective fisheries.  Samples high effort recreational fisheries and Terminal Area Fisheries (TAF) to provide data for in-season catch and effort estimates.  These studies are intensive and require additional people at the sampling sites and on the water.
Other duties as assigned.
Tasks include: May include reviewing data, maintaining equipment, and other tasks as needed.

Working conditions
The schedule for these positions is 24/7 (non-scheduled); 40 hours per week; weekend and evening work required.  8 – 10 hours per day between 5 a.m. and 11 p.m.  Inside/outside, inclement weather, rough water, noise, odors, repetitive movements of hands, finger manipulations, long periods of sitting, squatting, walking, boating, climbing in and out of boats, sampling salmon in a boat, carrying, kneeling, lifting (40 lb. max.) working and standing in confined space, fish blood and slime, slippery surfaces, raingear, equipment holsters, personal floatation devises (PFD), agency identifying clothing, bees (yellow jackets), and use of knives.

Interacts with the general public during data collection and provides basic information regarding fish resources as well as agency programs and activities.  Provides sport fishing regulatory information to the public.  Includes some contact with those who may be angry, distraught, or frustrated.  Liaison to regional supervisor on fishery violations observed in the field.

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.

College course work involving major study in biology, zoology, fisheries, chemistry, natural sciences or closely allies 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.

Desirable Qualification/Experience:

• At least 12 months experience test fishing for salmon in Puget Sound.
• At least 12 months experience sampling fisheries in Puget Sound.
• Must be able to ID all salmon species, common marine fish species, and crab species.
• Must be familiar with salmon, marine fish and shellfish life histories, and sport fishing regulations.
• MOCC boat safety class or equivalent.
• Safe operation of vessel at times in adverse weather conditions in the Puget Sound and proficient use of typical marine electronics (e.g. GPS, depth finder, radar, radio.

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.