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.

This position works to conserve and protect native fish and wildlife specifically on pinniped foraging ecology. This position is responsible for assisting with:

• Processing harbor seal scats for food habits analysis
• Data entry and QA/QC
• Assemble and maintain lab and field gear.

This position fills the short-term need for a technician to help complete the processing of ~1500 harbor seal scats for food habits analysis. This includes DNA filtering and sorting prey hard parts from each sample for later identification.  Technician will assist with data entry and QA/QC of data entry. Assists with assembling and maintenance of lab and field gear.  This position is part of contract work to identify harbor seal diet in south Puget Sound.

DUTIES:

• Assists with processing harbor seal scats for food habits analysis
• Assist with data entry and QA/QC of diet information from scats.
• Equipment maintenance for WDFW capture equipment, boats, trailers and vehicles.

Work Setting, including hazards:

• Work in WDFW lab and office in and be able to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Processing involves the handling and use of ethanol and formalin.

Schedule (i.e., hours and days):

• 20-24/hours/week, usually Monday to Wednesday or Tuesday to Thursday. May work weekends.

Travel Requirements:

• Job is at the WDFW facility in Lakewood at 7801 Phillips Road SW.

Tools and Equipment:

• Various equipment, tools, and instruments used for identifying pinniped food habits.

Customer Interactions:

• This position will have little if any interaction with the public.

Required Qualifications:
Graduation from high school or GED, including one year of high school science.

Preferred/Desired Qualifications:
Works effectively as part of a team as well as independently and maintain high quality of work.
Ability to follow verbal and written direction for safe implementation of this work.
Ability to meet productivity standards, deadlines and work schedules.
Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
Ability to conduct repetitive tasks.
Experience with scat processing and analysis.
Experience with data entry into Access or Excel.
Experience with operating and maintaining vehicles and boats.

WAFWP:
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
• Three professional references

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.

This posting was updated to reflect a change in Required Qualifications on 12/3/19.

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 (#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 (#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.