• Responsible for processing and reviewing HPA application materials submitted by applicants in accordance with the applicable statute, rules, agency policies, and guidance. Assign complete applications to the appropriate Habitat Biologist.
• Accompany Habitat Biologists as they perform pre-construction site visits, discuss project plans and specifications, permit provisions and cause/effect relationships of the proposed work, and conduct post-project site visits. Accompany Compliance Inspectors as they conduct compliance inspections and assist with the documentation of those inspections. Act as a conduit between field staff and management for constant improvement ideas and concepts relative to the permitting process and best management practices being used.
• Using the Habitat Program’s online permitting system, Aquatic Protection Permitting System (APPS), the incumbent will provide internal and external customer service and training on APPS. Assist supervisor and permit system development team with development of program guidance, manuals, and help tools.
• Work with staff to develop and update Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for specific project types. Conduct necessary SOP training or workshops.

• A Master’s degree in one of the above fields will substitute for one year of the required experience.
• A Ph.D. in the applicable science will substitute for two years of the required experience.

Must possess a valid Washington State or other State Driver’s License.

Preferred/Desired Education, Training, Skills and Abilities/Competencies:
Skills and experience necessary for this work include: Demonstrated complex records management skills. Ability to accurately and timely enter information into log sheets and database forms. Proficient in the use of common computer functions; and programs like Outlook, Word, and Excel. Proficient using standard office equipment including computers, digital scanners, photocopiers, printers, FAX. Knowledge of fish and wildlife habitat management. Good communication skills.

• Functional proficiency in the use of spreadsheets and word processing.
• Functional knowledge of relevant WACs and RCWs governing Hydraulic Project Approvals
• Functional knowledge of the requirements of State Environmental Policy Act as they pertain to the Hydraulic Code.
• Demonstrated organization and time management skills to effectively prioritize workload and maximize efficiency.
• Ability to read, interpret, and explain project plans and maps.

Key Competencies — the best-qualified applicants will demonstrate abilities in the following areas:

• Supervisory and leadership – Demonstrated skill supervising, leading, and coaching people.  Excellent self-awareness to understand and relate to different personalities in a manner that produces team cohesion, trust, and solution-oriented thinking.
• Facilitation and negotiation – Demonstrated ability to apply negotiation and conflict resolution skills in contentious work settings.  Leadership reaching consensus and de-escalating conflict.
• Communication and coordination – Demonstrated success using verbal and written communication skills.  Excellent interpersonal skills.  Ability to discuss complex or controversial information in a way that is understandable and non-confrontational to different audiences.  Intuitive sense for who to coordinate key messages with, including relevant management.

The successful candidate must be willing and able to:

• Read, interpret, apply and explain regulations and policies;
• Ability to create and manage complex, specialized reports and records;
• Ability to use complex software;
• Ability to perform research and make independent investigation of assigned problems;
• Ability to coordinate and analyze issues;
• Ability to work independently and apply program information in making work decisions or in supplying information to others;
• Establish and maintain positive working relations with other employees and the general public;
• Ability to work cooperatively with others as a member of a technical, service-oriented team;
• Ability to accept personal responsibility for the quality and timeliness of work. Ability to prioritize work, and to stay focused on tasks in spite of distractions and interruptions;
• Ability to adapt to changing work routines and responsibilities;
• Ability to stay focused on tasks, work efficiently and handle interruptions appropriately. Transition smoothly between tasks;
• Ability to apply negotiation and conflict resolution skills when communicating with difficult people under difficult circumstances.
• Use excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Handles customer inquiries and complaints promptly, courteously, and non-bureaucratically.
• Balances quality of work with ability to meet deadlines by making efficient and effective use of available time, equipment and resources with minimal supervision.  Exhibits self-initiative in developing or upgrading knowledge and skills, and applying that new knowledge or skills in the work environment.
• Does not make excuses for errors or problems, instead, acknowledges and corrects mistakes.  Demonstrates ethical behavior.  Keeps commitments made to others.  Shows respect for self and others.  Asks for and accepts constructive feedback on performance and makes efforts to improve.  Accepts and follows supervisory direction.  Provides constructive feedback to others.  Maintains alertness and concentration during normal work period. Keeps supervisor and co-workers informed of need-to-know items, and follows chain-of-command when addressing problems or issues.

• Work is performed in an office and outdoor environment.  Office work includes reading, writing, phone and computer use.
• Must have the ability to operate a vehicle and hold a valid driver’s license.  Fieldwork may require the knowledge of operating GPS, clinometer, and digital camera.
• Work hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. five days a week.  These hours are flexible to accommodate seasonal workload or additional duties as assigned by the supervisor.
• Physical, environmental, or mental demands of key work: Must be able to drive a vehicle to conduct field review of project sites.
• Health, Safety or Administrative Requirements: Capable of walking over rough terrain for short distances (? 1 mile) regularly or occasionally over long distances (several miles).
• Willingness and ability to work extended hours as necessary to complete assignments.  May include extended travel and evening or overnight trips.

Union
This position is in the bargaining unit represented by the Washington Association of Fish & Wildlife Professionals and is subject to the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the State of Washington, Department of Fish & Wildlife, and the Washington Association of Fish & Wildlife Professionals.

How to Apply:
To apply for this position you MUST complete your profile at www.careers.wa.gov, ensuring you complete the Work History experience section of the online application 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.