Description

As a Scientific Technician 2, you will provide support for data collection activities associated with Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) and Viable Salmonid Population (VSP) contracted work under the Yakima Klickitat Fisheries Project (YKFP).

Our ideal applicants will have a positive can-do attitude as they collect/sample data.  In addition, the candidate will share our values of trust, respect, diversity, equity, and inclusion, and is eager to work hard and have fun in an environment where there’s never a dull moment.  DutiesProvide support for data collection activities associated with Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) and Viable Salmonid Population (VSP) contracted work under the Yakima Klickitat Fisheries Project (YKFP).
Tasks include:
Assist with population estimates using backpack and drift boat electrofisher.  Collect Rainbow trout, Chinook and Coho salmon with backpack electrofisher for PIT tagging in the Yakima Basin.  Ability to handle fish taking length, weight, and a fin clip for genetics.  Ability to identify all species in the Yakima Basin.  Collect habitat measurements such as flow, stream widths and thalwag.

Assist with competition/capacity and precocious male snorkeling surveys in the upper Yakima River.
Tasks include:
Ability to row and maneuver a raft down river to study sites, snorkel upstream along the bank and down center channel to identify all fish species, and collect habitat measurements such as flow, densitometer, transects, site pictures, and GPS coordinates.  Assist with Chinook fry sampling using backpack electrofisher for growth comparisons in the upper Yakima River.  Assist with precocious male snorkeling surveys on Chinook redds.

Laboratory Work/ Data entry
Tasks include:
Mounting and ageing Rainbow trout scales, pulling Genetic Stock Samples (GSI) to send to Olympia for parentage, and entering data into Excel from data collected in the field and lab.

WORKING CONDITIONS:
Work week is Monday – Thursday, 7:00 – 5:30.  This is a non-scheduled position that requires the incumbent to work a variety of shifts that may change on short notice. The standard workday during the field season is ten hours; however, the incumbent in the position may work at night during portions of the field season. May be requested to work out of town for extended durations.  This is a field position that generally only interacts with private landowners, peers, other federal, state, tribal, local, and private entities.

The position requires that the incumbent to carry a 30 lbs. pack and a bucket of water up to 40 pounds while hiking quickly over wet, slippery terrain, and through streams were water temperatures are at times near freezing. The incumbent must be comfortable rowing rafts and snorkeling upstream and downstream in high/swift river conditions.  Must successfully complete WDFW snorkel training, First Aid/CPR, and other state required training within first two weeks of employment.

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.

QualificationsREQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Graduation from high school or GED, including one year of high school science and two years of experience as a Scientific Technician 1.

PREFERRED/DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

•  Background in fish science and a basic understanding of the Yakima River basin and its tributaries.
• Knowledge and experience snorkeling, experience rowing small rafts and drift boat, backpack electrofishing, PIT tagging.
• Ability to identifying all native and non-native fishes of the Yakima basin and experience in the proper sampling and handling of ESA listed fish.

Supplemental InformationPlease note: Failure to follow the instructions below may lead to disqualification.
In order to successfully 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

JOIN THE WDFW TEAM:
Learn about our agency and the perks of working for WDFW!

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. We value demonstrated skill in living WDFW values of professionalism, accountability, empathy, integrity, service, and respect.

WDFW employees may be eligible for the following:
Medical/Dental/Vision for employee & dependent(s), Public Employees Retirement System (PERS),  Vacation, Sick, and other Leave*, 11 Paid Holidays per year*, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, Tuition Waiver,  Long Term Disability & Life Insurance, Deferred Compensation Programs, Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP),  Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA), Employee Assistance Program, Commute Trip Reduction Incentives (Download PDF reader), Combined Fund Drive, SmartHealth.

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

“As part of WDFW’s efforts to advance respectful and inclusive work environments, the Agency expects inclusivity as part of our professional interactions and communications.  Therefore; we want to ensure that all individuals feel welcome, are treated fairly and respectfully.  All staff are empowered to fully contribute to serving their work unit, Agency, and the citizens of Washington.”

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.