State of Washington
Dept. of Fish and Wildlife
invites applications for the position of:
FISH AND WILDLIFE BIOLOGIST 3 *10515H
SALARY: $3,631.00 – $4,770.00 Monthly
OPENING DATE: 11/03/14
CLOSING DATE: 11/20/14 11:59 PM
DESCRIPTION:
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is dedicated to protecting native fish and wildlife, and
providing sustainable fishing, hunting, and wildlife viewing opportunities for millions of residents and visitors.
Working throughout the state, WDFW’s employees: field biologists, enforcement officers, land stewards, lab
technicians, customer service representatives and others – manage hundreds of fish and wildlife species,
maintain nearly a million acres of public wildlife lands, provide opportunities for recreational and commercial
fishing, wildlife viewing and hunting, protect and restore habitat and enforce laws that protect fish and wildlife
resources. Find out more about us and the important work we are a part of at www.wdfw.wa.gov.
FISH & WILDLIFE BIOLOGIST 3
(Permanent)
The Department of Fish and Wildlife is recruiting to fill one full time, permanent, Fish & Wildlife Biologist 3
position located in the Habitat Program, Region 3. The duty station for this position is the Yakima Region 3
Office. A significant portion of the workload is expected to be in both Kittitas and Yakima Counties working in
forested and shrub-steppe environments reviewing forest practices and representing WDFW in landscape level
forest and shrub-steppe planning efforts to maintain function and values of forest and shrub-steppe
ecosystems and preserving ecological connectivity between critical habitats and remaining core areas.
Under the supervision of the Regional Habitat Program Manager or the Assistant Regional Habitat Program
Manager and following the agency’s strategic plan and Habitat Program business plan, this position serves as
Department expert regarding Fish & Wildlife habitat preservation, protection, conservation, restoration,
enhancement, and environmental permitting requirements within their assigned area of coverage and within the
specific objectives.
DUTIES:
Represents the Department on technical committees; writes and reviews plans; presents study results and
serves as expert witness or negotiator before various commissions, review boards, or in court cases;
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formulates regulatory recommendations for management of wildlife and their habitats; independently serves as
Department expert in assigned coverage area regarding fish and wildlife habitat preservation, protection,
conservation, restoration, enhancement, and environmental permitting requirements. As the Department expert,
provides technical assistance to the public, governmental agencies, tribes, and other WDFW programs. This
can include representing the Department on committees, workgroups or permitting teams during the review of
landscape level, high-profile planning processes or projects.
Implement the Hydraulic Project Approval process in accordance with Chapter 77.55.RCW, 77.57.RCW, and
Chapter 220-110-WAC (Hydraulic Code Rules).
Investigates and prescribes appropriate resource protection requirements on legally mandated permits,
specifically implements the Hydraulic Project Approval process in accordance with Chapter 77.55.RCW,
77.57 and Chapter 220-110-WAC (Hydraulic Code Rules) and consistent with standard, policies and
procedures of the Habitat Program. Implements the Hydraulic Project Approval permitting process by
providing field review of construction projects that may impact fish life. This includes: pre-project review
and assistance to project proponents, evaluating and provisioning projects for protection of fish life,
conducting project compliance and monitoring field review during and post-construction and providing
assistance to the Enforcement Program for resolution of violations of RCW77.55 and 77.57.
Provide review of County or City environmental protection ordinance development and implementation under
the Shoreline Management Act and Growth Management Act. Updates and maintains Priority Habitat and
Species (PHS) data and provides assistance to local government in utilizing this information for land use
decisions.
In accordance with priorities established by their supervisor and the Olympia coordinator provide review
of SEPA/NEPA documents, variance requests, zoning change requests, shoreline substantial
development permit documents, U.S. Corps of Engineers 401 & 404 permit applications, critical area
ordinances, shoreline management plans, and other land use permit applications, documents, and
proposals. Primarily serves as lead in review of County or City environmental protection ordinance
development and implementation under the Shoreline Management Act and Growth Management Act
within their assigned area. Provides written comment within statutory comment timelines on draft
policies, plans, and ordinances to the appropriate local government office and working proactively with
County or City planning staff during ordinance development and review process. Review and comment
on project specific documents supplied by local jurisdictions to WDFW through SEPA/NEPA, Critical
areas review or shoreline planning review. This includes providing written comments, hearing testimony
on proposed ordinances or projects or appeals of ordinances or projects. Assist local governments and
applicants in understanding and meeting requirements of local Shoreline and Critical Area Ordinances as
related to the protection of fish and wildlife resources. Provides best available science to local
organizations for use in Shoreline and Critical Area updates. Serves as PHS lead and expert for
geographic coverage area. Provides technical assistance in the use and application of PHS information
by local, state and federal governments as well as the general public and private organizations. Pursues
strategies to maintain and update information within the database to ensure information is accurate and
complete .Presents and promotes use of PHS data by local jurisdictions in land use planning and
permitting. References PHS Management Recommendations when reviewing and providing written
comments on land use proposals.
Serves as regional lead for forest habitats by providing office and field review of plans, permits and actions
conducted in the forested environment.
Serves as lead for forested and shrub-steppe habitat habitats by providing office and field review of
plans, permits and actions conducted in the forested and shrub-steppe environment including: Working
collaboratively with Conservation Districts, Tapash collaborative, Regional Fishery Enhancement Group
and landowners on: planning and permitting efforts to address impacts to fish (including providing fish
protection provisions for hydraulic projects) and wildlife (including steelhead and salmon restoration and
management plans),review of local development and energy projects; Coordinating Agency involvement
in the development of watershed and Flood Hazard Management Plans, and review of NEPA/other
actions.
Conducts habitat restoration and protection as lead or part of a multi-disciplinary team. This can include grantwriting,
formal presentations, technical assistance and project development/management.
Facilitates and coordinates DFW input to Salmon Recovery activities with lead entities and RFEG’s
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within geographic area of responsibility. Participates in the identification and prioritization of projects.
Supports partnerships among the Recovery Organizations and outside groups. Facilitates technical
support from State, Federal, and tribal agencies and provides technical assistance for project
development. Provides support to Lead Entities, watershed groups, citizen groups, environmental
groups, natural resource agencies and other local entities to develop their strategies and operation
competency. Conducts habitat restoration or acquisition as lead or part of a multi-disciplinary team.
Including field review and assessments of potential projects or acquisition properties, researching and
applying for grants, development of formal presentations and project implantation management. Work
with outside organizations including lead entities, regional fish enhancement groups or other groups
dedicated to fish or wildlife habitat protection and restoration by providing technical assistance, project
review and guidance and /or partnering on specific projects. Within the agency develop, lead or
participate in cross-program teams to conduct habitat enhancement or acquisition as lead or part of a
multi-disciplinary team.
Other Duties
Complete administrative reporting duties as assigned by the Regional Habitat Program Manager or
Assistant Regional Habitat Program Manager. Assisting the Regional Habitat Program Manager or
Assistant Regional Habitat Program Manager in providing service for implementing Strategic Plan of the
Agency. Any aspect of the Habitat Program Business Plan can be assigned to meet agency goals and
objectives.
QUALIFICATIONS:
A Bachelor’s degree in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, or environmental science AND
three years of professional experience in fish management or fish research, wildlife management or wildlife
research, or habitat management or habitat research. Twelve semesters or eighteen-quarter hours of specific
course work is required for certain positions.
OR
A Master’s degree in the applicable science will substitute one year of the required experience. A Ph.D. in the
applicable science may be substituted for two years of the required experience.
OR
Two years as a Fish & Wildlife Biologist 2.
General knowledge of Pacific Northwest fish and wildlife, their habitats, and life histories; Species identification.
A valid Washington or other State Driver’s License
Preferred/Desired Education, Training, Skills and Abilities/Competencies:
Knowledge of forest and/or shrub-steppe ecology and mitigation and restoration techniques, impact
assessments, fish passage requirements for forest road crossing structures, logging processes and
equipment, heavy equipment operation and limitations, in-water construction techniques, environmental
review processes, and similarly applicable fields of study or training.
Familiarity with state and federal forest practice processes.
Familiarity with ArcGIS and Priority Habitats and Species mapping.
Familiarity with local government planning processes, including the Growth Management Act and the
Shoreline Management Act.
Demonstrated ability to work within the regulatory environment including reviewing, issuing, monitoring
or complying with federal, state or local environmental permits.
Demonstrated functional knowledge of northwest forest and/or shrub-steppe ecology, and the biology,
life histories, and habitat requirements of fish and wildlife species of Washington.
Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate (one-on-one and participation in group discussions),
independently analyze and weigh the risks verses benefits in decisions and recommendations related to
fish and wildlife resources, and habitat issues
Demonstrated ability to build rapport and partner with the public, tribes, and local, state, and federal
governmental agencies regarding issues pertaining to fish and wildlife protection;
Demonstrated organization and time management skills to effectively prioritize workload and maximize
efficiency;
Demonstrated ability to apply negotiation and conflict resolution skills
Demonstrated skill in writing and group presentations and the ability to present complex or controversial
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information in a way that is understandable and non-confrontational.
Key Competencies — the best qualified applicants will demonstrate abilities in the following areas:
Facilitation and negotiation skills – The ability to serve as both as a regulator and as a nonregulatory
technical expert on regional fish and wildlife issues is required. Being tactful and sensitive
when dealing with people with strongly held opposing viewpoints and when addressing “politically
sensitive” matters are very important qualities for this position. Exemplary social and verbal
communication skills are needed to ensure requests and actions are professional, objective, and not
perceived by others as adversarial or unprofessional.
Written Communication – Exceptional writing skills are a requirement. Writing (letters, memos and
email) should be organized, clear and concise, use principles of “plain talk”, and be effective, yet tactful.
Writing should be professionally written with the understanding that they are public records and as such
may be read by others than the intended recipient(s).
Working with WDFW Management – This position must ensure to keep management timely apprised of
controversial issues in the region, especially politically sensitive matters, and consult with supervisor and
management prior to acting on particularly sensitive or controversial matters or representing the
Department on such matters so that WDFW management can participate in deciding positions or actions
to be taken.
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.
*College course work involving major study in biology, zoology, fisheries, chemistry, natural sciences, or
closely allied field will substitute, year for year, for experience, provided course work includes at least six
semester or nine quarter hours of natural science classes.
The successful candidate must be willing and able to:
Work in the field in all weather conditions, walk streams and over rugged terrain up to 50% of the time.
Ability to work in inclement weather over difficult terrain, including slippery rocks, steep banks, and sticky
mud.
Ability to walk, bend, stoop, while at times carrying up to 40 pounds.
Ability to load and transport machinery, equipment, and gear.
Ability and knowledge to work safely and efficiently around agricultural equipment, ATVs, and hand tools
(e.g. shovels, box cutters).
Ability to use critical thinking in collecting, recording, compiling, and summarizing data.
Ability to follow oral and written directions.
Ability to visually discriminate when identifying and distinguishing biological and physical features.
Ability to complete required administrative paperwork in an accurate and timely manner.
Ability to work independently and as a team member.
Willingness and ability to perform routine and repetitive work.
Willingness and ability to perform in a punctual and dependable manner.
Willingness to accept supervision.
Occasional work hours outside of the regular 8:00 am – 5:00 pm, Monday – Friday work hours including
evenings and weekends, occasional early morning, evening, and weekend duties.
Safely operate motor vehicles.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION:
Working Conditions
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 at all
times. Fieldwork also requires knowledge of the operation of a GPS, clinometer, and digital camera.
Knowledge of electroshocking equipment and procedures may be required.
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 Regional Habitat Program Manager or
Assistant Regional Habitat Program Manager.
Physical, environmental, or mental demands of key work: Must be able to drive a vehicle to conduct
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field review of project sites. Physical capacity to work in remote forested and aquatic environments,
conducting fish surveys and other related tasks. These activities can consist of 8 to 10 hour days, for
several days in a row.
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 including
weekends and holidays on occasion. May include extended travel and evening or overnight trips.
Interests: An interest in fish and wildlife resource management and working with others in a collaborative
and regulatory environment to influence sound resource management.
Union
This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement between the State of Washington, Department of
Fish & Wildlife, and the Washington Association of Fish and Wildlife Professionals (WAFWP). As a condition
of employment you must either join the union and pay union dues, or pay the union a representational or other
fee within 30 days of the date you are put into pay status.
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 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. 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. 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.
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.