The Washington 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. The Department of Fish and Wildlife has some of the most talented people in the natural resource field. Find out more about us and the important work we are a part of at www.wdfw.wa.gov

Full-Time/Permanent
Environmental Specialist 3

We are recruiting to fill one (1) Environmental Specialist 3 position within the Habitat Program, Protection Division. This position located at the Natural Resources Building in Olympia, WA.
Duties
The department protects fish through the administration of the Hydraulic Project Approval (HPA) program. The Regulatory Services Team provides a solid foundation for the HPA program by delivering accurate, courteous, timely, effective and complete HPA data, document management, technical support and training. The incumbent in this position is expert in the online Aquatic Protection Permitting System (APPS) and is one of three staff that serve as initial contacts for HPA applications submitted from throughout the state, providing statewide technical and informational support related to APPS. This position requires a working knowledge of rules, regulations and statutory requirements governing WDFW HPA applications sufficient to verify submittal of all required documents.

Key duties include:

Reviews and evaluates HPA applications, plans, and supplemental materials for administrative and statutory completeness.
Communicates with applicants/agents on methods to achieve complete applications if deficient, and documents application status in the agency permitting database.
Developing an expert knowledge of the HPA permitting process from application development through project completion and providing feedback on that process and the tools used to implement each piece of the process.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:

A Bachelor’s degree involving major study in environmental, physical, or one of the natural sciences, environmental planning or other allied field, and
Two years of professional level experience in environmental analysis or control or environmental planning.
OR

A Ph.D. in one of the above fields
OR

One year of experience as an Environmental Specialist 2.

Please Note:

Additional qualifying experience will substitute, year for year, for education.
A Master’s degree in one of the above fields will substitute for one year of the required experience.
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 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.
Preferred Qualifications:

Effectively communicates in individual and group discussions, independently analyzes and weighs the risks verses benefits in decisions and recommendations related to fish and wildlife resources, and habitat issues.
Builds rapport and partners with WDFW staff, the public, Indian Tribes, and local, state, and federal governmental agencies regarding issues pertaining to fish and wildlife protection.
Applies negotiation and conflict resolution skills when communicating with difficult people under difficult circumstances.
Uses excellent written and verbal communication skills when communicating with individuals and groups and to present complex or controversial information in a way that is understandable and non-confrontational to the permit applicants, coworkers and team members through consistently honest, forthright and professional interactions; logically integrates various ideas, intentions, and information to form effective goals, objectives, timelines, action plans, and solutions.
Is sensitive to customer and team member attitudes and concerns. Is accessible to customers and team members and handles customer inquiries and complaints promptly, courteously, and non-bureaucratically. Recognizes adverse reactions and develops better alternatives. Provides products and services that consistently meet or exceed the needs and expectations of customers and team members without compromising protection of natural resources.
Involves appropriate staff in decision making that impacts them. Discusses areas of agreement as well as disagreement or inconsistency in order to identify issues or aspects that need resolution. Seeks different alternatives to reach a given end by looking for common ground and by looking beyond the obvious and not stopping at the first answers. Distinguishes information that is not pertinent to a decision or problem solution. Demonstrates a willingness to negotiate and make concessions to reach an acceptable solution that benefits all parties. Presents interests in a diplomatic, professional manner oriented toward bringing about understanding and seeking resolution. Can translate the ‘letter of the law’ into a variety of workable, legal options. Accepts that management may adopt a different resolution with a divergent outcome from that presented.
Balances quality of work with ability to meet deadlines by making efficient and effective use of available time, equipment and resources. Knowledgeable of and practices Lean principles. Works with dedication, commitment and professionalism. Adapts to stressful or changing situations and priorities. Transitions easily between tasks, responding quickly and efficiently to work requests; successfully returns to incomplete tasks and continues work with minimal need to become re-oriented to the task. Works accurately and timely with minimal supervision. Exhibits self-initiative in developing or upgrading knowledge and skills, and applying that new knowledge or skills in the work environment.
Doesn’t 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. Adapts to and positively deals with the stress of a high-paced work environment. 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.

Supplemental Information
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.

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, including professional accomplishments
Three professional references (please only provide 3 professional references)
Professional writing sample (can be an email, letter, or report).
Please note: Failure to follow the above application instructions may 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.

Veteran Preference Notice
To take advantage of veteran preference, please do the following:

Email a copy of your DD214 (Member 4 copy), NGB 22 or USDVA signed verification of service letter to RecruitmentTeam@dfw.wa.gov.
Subject line should include recruitment number, position and Vet (for example: #10155 Biologist 1 – Veteran)
Include your name as it appears on your application in careers.wa.gov
Military Spouse Preference Notice
To take advantage of military spouse preference, please do the following:

Notify us of your military spouse status by email at RecruitmentTeam@dfw.wa.gov.
Subject line should include recruitment number, position and MS (for example: #10155 Biologist 1 – MS)
Include your name as it appears on your application in careers.wa.gov
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.