Working Title- AutoFish System Operator
Classification- Fish & Wildlife Biologist 2 (In-Training)
Job Status- Full-Time/Permanent
WDFW Program- Fish Program – Hatcheries Division
Duty Station- *Olympia, Washington – Thurston County
*Although this is a hybrid opportunity, the successful candidate must be available to report to the duty station located in Olympia, Washington as needed.  The selected candidate may be able to telework/work remotely up to 2 days per week at the discretion of the supervisor, typically in between projects and during the maintenance season.
In-Training- We are recruiting to hire at the Fish and Wildlife Biologist 1 or 2 level, and we will train a Fish and Wildlife Biologist 1 up to the Fish and Wildlife Biologist 2. 
Salary- Depending on which level you are hired at, your salary range will be as follows:
Fish and Wildlife Biologist 1: $3,643.00 - $4,865.00 monthly
Fish and Wildlife Biologist 2: $4,410.00 - $5,929.00 monthly

Learn more about being a member of Team WDFW!

With sustainability and conservation in mind, you will analyze coded wire tag data to determine contribution rates, allocation, brood-stock identification, and effect of mark selective fisheries.

This is an opportunity to plan, organize, direct, and conduct coded wire tag experiments.

In this dynamic role, you will operate an automated/manual mass marking and coded wire tagging mobile wet lab at hatcheries statewide.
 

WHAT TO EXPECT
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, this position will:

Independently operate an automated/manual coded wire tagging and mass marking mobile wet lab statewide. Oversee up to 11 contract employees to perform coded wire tagging and/or mass marking. Train new employees and provides hazard communication training and monitor work product. Assist in teaching WDFW staff in proper tagging and marking techniques.

• Plans, organizes, directs, and conducts coded wire tag experiments.
• Ensure scientific random sampling to obtain representative populations during tagging experiments.
• Diagnose and repair problems with state-of-the-art automated marking/tagging mobile wet labs including complex robotic systems, video imaging systems, and complex software.
• Monitor work product and fish health to provide sound scientific results.
• Analyzes coded wire tag recoveries to determine contribution rates, allocation, and escapement using RMIS coded wire tag database.

Works with HEAT Unit, Hatchery Data Unit, and CWT Head Lab as directed by the Bio 3 & 4.

• Compiles, QC’s and analyses data.
• Provides data and summary reports/analyses to the Bio 3 for review and distribution to the requesting unit.

Maintain automated/manual coded wire tagging mobile wet labs.

• Remove and repair all mechanical devices once a year to ensure smooth operation during tagging and marking operations.
• Re-home and check operation of all stepper motors (6).
• Recalibrate video imaging system by removing and cleaning all optics and infra-red sensors.

Research, development and data analysis.

• Under Bio 3 supervision, conducts, authors, and presents research intended to improve the efficiency of marking and tagging operations and the integrity of analytical data.

Improve data integrity, reporting, and processes from the point of source to develop a LEAN, precise and inclusive overall data tracking system.

• Continual development and improvement of our CWT data tracking through multiple databases.
• Further develop and improve internal tracking of CWT data for the purpose of meeting scheduling demands, ensuring all projects are completed and/or accounted for annually, and meeting budget projections as outlined by management.
• Aide in developing databases as needed to improve our tracking processes and quality.

Working Conditions:

Work setting:  Automated coded wire tag mobile wet lab, hatchery environment, work during inclement weather, office setting. Outdoor work in all weather conditions. This position may involve working in or near water, including tasks that require navigating, negotiating, and performing duties related to water environments. Ability to be on feet all day, lift 40 pounds commonly, and work around hatchery ponds and on catwalks over hatchery ponds.

Schedule:  Typically, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday – Friday, with considerable overtime and possible shift work mainly in the spring.

Travel requirements: Extensive state-wide travel and driving required. Up to 6 months per year, 5 days a week.

Customer Interactions: Interacts with Biologists, Hatchery personnel, Tribal Staff and general public.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Required Qualifications:

This Fish and Wildlife Biologist 2 series provides mentoring and career development opportunities for candidates with limited experience.

Candidates will be hired as a Fish and Wildlife Biologist 1 or 2 dependent on skills and experience.  Advancement from the Fish and Wildlife Biologist 1 to Fish and Wildlife Biologist 2 requires successful completion of the In-Training Plan, which will be provided upon hiring.

Required Qualifications for the Fish and Wildlife Biologist 1:

Option 1: A Bachelor’s degree in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, or environmental science.

Option 2: Equivalent combination of education and/or experience.

License:
Valid driver’s license.

Required Qualifications for the Fish and Wildlife Biologist 2 (Goal Class):

Option 1: A Bachelor’s degree in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, or environmental science, and one (1) year of professional experience in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, or environmental science. 

Option 2: One (1) year as a Fish and Wildlife Biologist 1.

Please Note: Closely related qualifying experience may be substituted for the required education on a year-by-year basis.  Master’s degree or Ph.D. in the applicable science may substitute for the required experience.  

License:
Valid driver’s license.

Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment:
Successful completion of agency training and/or certification per supervisory direction, position need, and training availability.

Preferred Qualifications:
In addition to the required qualifications, our ideal applicant will possess some or all the following:

• Knowledge of the coded wire tag system.
• Knowledge and experience with all types of Electronic Coded Wire Tag Detectors.
• Experience operating an automated or manual coded wire tagging/mass marking mobile wet lab.
• Experience operating and maintaining Mark IV coded wire tag injectors.
• Experience working in a salmon hatchery environment.
• Experience supervising or directing employees.
• Experience working independently and be self-motivated.
• Experience working with hand tools for general repairs to mechanical devices.
• Experience with data analysis leading to publication of research findings.

Your application should include the following:

• A completed online application showcasing how your qualifications align with the job requirements.
• An up-to-date resume.
• A cover letter detailing your interest in the position, your relevant skills and experience, and why you are the ideal candidate.
• At least three (3) professional references with current contact information.

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION:

In addition to pay and other special employee programs, there are other benefits that WDFW employees may be eligible for. Click the “Benefits” tab at the top of this announcement to learn more.

Important Note: 

All new employees must complete an Employment Eligibility Verification Form (I-9 Form) on their first day of work. If hired for this or any position at WDFW, you will be required to provide documentation proving you are eligible to work in the United States. For a list of acceptable documents, please use the following link:  https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents

Union - 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.

Veteran and Military Spouse Preference Notice:

Per RCW 73.16.010 Veterans and qualifying spouses who meet the minimum qualifications of a position are eligible for preference during the initial application review stage. To receive this benefit, please do the following: 

• Notify us of your veteran or military spouse status by email at Cheri.Potter@dfw.wa.gov.
• Veterans only – Attach a copy of your DD214 (Member 4 copy), NGB 22, or USDVA signed verification of service letter.
  • Please redact any PII (personally identifiable information) data such as social security numbers.
• Subject line must include recruitment number, position, and spouse/veteran (example: 2024-1234 – Biologist 1 – Veteran).
• Include your name as it appears on your application in careers.wa.gov.

 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Employer

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.

Request an accommodation: Persons needing accommodation in the application process or this announcement in an alternative format please contact Jayme Chase by phone 360-902-2278 or email Jayme.Chase@dfw.wa.gov, or the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) at 800-833-6388.

Technical Difficulties: If you are having technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application, please call NEOGOV toll-free at (855) 524-5627 or support@neogov.com. 

Other questions: If you have other questions regarding this position, please reach out to Cheri.Potter@dfw.wa.gov and reference job #2025-02523.

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