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NATURAL RESOURCE WORKER 2*06216W

Salary
$2,313.00 – $2,984.00 Monthly
Location
Grays Harbor County – Montesano, WA
Job Type
Full Time – Non-Permanent
Department
Dept. of Fish and Wildlife
Job Number
2018-06216W
Closing
7/4/2018 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.

NATURAL RESOURCE WORKER 2
(NON-PERM FULL-TIME)
The Department of Fish and Wildlife is recruiting to fill one (1) full time, non-permanent, 2-month position located in the Wildlife Program, Region 6, Montesano WA. The responsibilities of this position are to directly address the sound stewardship of fish and wildlife resources by implementing wildlife habitat improvement through weed control and land management activities.  The incumbent conducts Spartina eradication and other vegetation management through the implementation of integrated pest management (IPM) as part of a small crew under the supervision of experienced staff.  The incumbent operates equipment such as boats, ATVs, mowers, and sprayers and maintains the equipment in estuarine environments, as well as implements other aquatic and terrestrial habitat enhancement/restoration activities.  The incumbent collects and records data using devices such as GPS and cameras, as well as in writing.
Duties
Under the direction of a Weed Control Crew Leader, the Natural Resource Worker conducts Spartina (an estuarine, invasive grass) eradication and other weed control as part of a team using an integrated weed management approach.  Primary duties include:

  • Vegetation management: Use IPM principles to and coordinate with Wildlife Areas and other agencies/ groups to manage invasive vegetation in a safe and efficient manner. Tasks may require the use of pesticides, planting of competing vegetation, operation of spray equipment, and operation of airboats. ATV’s and mowing/digging equipment Tasks also include the use of a GPS to mark weed locations and camera to take photo-points.
  • Equipment Upkeep and maintenance: Performing maintenance and repair of vehicles, boats and equipment to ensure the safe and reliable operation in the field.
  • Other duties: Participating in other projects and supporting other Programs as they are identified.
Qualifications
Required
High school diploma or GED, AND three months of natural resource related labor experience.
OR
One year as a Natural Resource Worker 1.

Valid Washington State, or other state, driver’s license.
*Successful candidates will be required to obtain a Pesticide Applicator’s license after hire.

Incumbents will be required to obtain one or more specialized skill qualifications or licenses, including but not limited to
First Aid training certification.
Public Pesticide Applicators License

The position requires a valid driver’s license and the employee will be obtain a public applicator pesticide applicator’s license with an aquatic and turf &  ornamental endorsement after they are hired.

Preferred experience
Experience operating small boats in marine areas.

Competencies
Selected employee must become familiar with and comfortable with navigating from the Montesano office to established work site in Western Washington in the absence of the supervisor.  Employee must become familiar with and comfortable navigating throughout region assigned.

Well qualified applicants will demonstrate competencies in the following areas:

  • Relationship-building skill/abilities: Ability to develop positive, productive, respectful working relationships with coworkers and collaborators.
  • Ability to partner with field crew staff and the supervisor to identify and resolve complex or sensitive issues.
  • Familiarity with the use of handheld GPS or other device.
  • Ability to closely follow standard protocols and perform work under moderate to low supervision.
  • Knowledge of herbicide application.
  • Understanding of mechanical/small engine repair.
  • Basic understanding of the marine environment and biology/botany.
  • Excellent field work skills including safety, punctuality, and the ability to accept supervision.

Behavioral competencies:

  • Creative and innovative thinking.
  • Communication effectiveness.
  • Organizational and political awareness.
  • Adaptability and flexibility.
  • Accountability.
  • Leadership.
  • Ethics and integrity.
Supplemental Information
WORKING CONDITIONS
The successful candidate must be willing and able to:

  • Work in all weather conditions including extreme heat, cold, and rain up to 90% of the time.
  • Work in remote location 75% of the time.
  • Walk over difficult terrain including slippery rocks, steep banks, and mud.
  • Bend and stoop while at times carrying up to 40 pounds.
  • Work with pesticides.
  • Work hours outside of the regular 8:00 am – 5:00 pm, Monday – Friday work hours.  Start times are set by the best available tides and may require early morning starts and occasional overtime.
  • Load and transport equipment and gear weighing up to 40 pounds over uneven terrain.
  • Travel up to 10% of the time including occasional weekends and overnight trips.
  • Safely operate motor vehicles, swamp buggies, airboats, and ATV’s.
  • Safely operate equipment such as brush cutters and chemical application equipment.
  • Ability to work alone in remote locations.
  • Ability to follow oral and written directions.
  • Wiliness to perform in a safe and efficient manner.
  • Ability to work independently or as a team member.
  • Wiliness and ability to perform in a punctual and dependable manner.
  • Ability to interact with other agencies and the public, and regularly explain weed control to the public.

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 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?

  • Completed High School or in possession of a GED
  • Attending College
  • Associates degree
  • Bachelor’s degree or higher
02
if you have a college degree what is your major area of study? If multiple degrees, please list each degree and major
03
Do you have a high school diploma or GED including at least three months of natural resource related labor experience?

  • Yes
  • No
04
Do you have a high school diploma or GED including at least three months of natural resource related labor experience?

  • Yes
  • No
05
What best describes your natural resource related labor 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.

  • o I have less than 3 months of experience
  • o I have 3 to 5 months of experience
  • o I have 6 to 11 months of experience
  • o I have 12 or more months of experience
  • o I do not have this type of experience.
06
Have you ever controlled Spartina as part of an eradication program?

  • Yes
  • No
07
This job focuses primarily on Spartina eradication but includes weed control efforts for several species. Please describe your experience controlling weeds. Include information on species, habitat types, methods, and monitoring.
08
Are you willing and able to mix and apply herbicides?

  • Yes
  • No
09
Are you willing to obtain pesticide applicator license if you accept the position?

  • Yes
  • No
10
Do you possess a valid Motorboat Operator’s Certificate?

  • Yes
  • No
11
Please briefly describe your experience operating small boats in waters such as Willapa Bay or Puget Sound. Include the size of the boat(s), the body of water, the amount of experience you have, and how you obtained this experience.
12
Are you comfortable working in adverse weather and sea conditions and willing to do so?

  • Yes
  • No
13
Are you willing to work in deep mud and to get dirty?

  • Yes
  • No
14
Are you willing and able to perform work requiring you to push, pull, and lift up to 40 pounds?

  • Yes
  • No
15
Are you willing and able to carry 40 pounds in a backpack for several hours at a time?

  • Yes
  • No
16
The position requires early morning starts and requires working mandatory overtime and some weekends. Are you willing to comply with this requirement?

  • Yes
  • No
17
Have you collected geospatial data using GPS, iPhone, or other device? Briefly describe.
18
Please describe your experience maintaining and repairing equipment (e.g., vehicles, motors, trailers, mowers, etc.). List the type of equipment and how you obtained your experience.
19
Have you ever been employed as part of a small team to complete a task?

  • Yes
  • No
20
Do you possess 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
21
*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) Detailed responses to all supplemental questions. 3) Three professional references.

  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

Agency
State of Washington
Address
View Job Posting for Agency Information

View Job Posting for Location, Washington, 98504

Phone
View Posting for Agency Contact