Position Overview:

The Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission (NWIFC) is seeking a skilled Fisheries Biologist II to lead and conduct critical fish tagging operations, collaborating closely with tribal and state hatcheries and overseeing project staff. This role generates foundational coded wire tag (CWT) data essential for coastwide salmon management. The Fisheries Biologist II contributes key data used in conservation decisions related to contribution rates, allocation, and broodstock identification, supporting NWIFC’s mission to promote sustainable natural resource management in partnership with tribal and state hatcheries.

Key Responsibilities:

• Operate specialized equipment for tagging and marking juvenile salmon in hatcheries across Washington State, with training and support provided.
• Supervise and train contract employees in safe tagging procedures, including hazard communication and quality checks.
• Troubleshoot and maintain tagging equipment, including robotic systems and video imaging, with initial support and training.
• Monitor fish health and tagging quality to maintain scientific accuracy.
• Collaborate with teams to support data management and tagging projects.

Additional Duties:

• Perform yearly maintenance on tagging equipment, including system calibrations and cleaning, with support as needed.
• Assist with research to improve tagging processes, data accuracy, and efficiency.
• Support the development of streamlined data tracking systems to improve project tracking and reporting.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Fisheries Science or a related field, or an Associate degree in Fisheries with 2 years of relevant experience, or a High School Diploma/equivalent with 4 years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• Ability to work unsupervised with technical equipment, including mechanical skills for maintaining tagging machinery.
• Knowledge of salmon biology and basic tagging protocols.
• Strong computing skills, including experience with data management.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work effectively with diverse groups.
• Valid Washington State Driver’s License.
• Ability to work variable hours, travel frequently, and perform physically demanding tasks (lifting up to 50 pounds, standing all day, walking on catwalks over ponds) in hatchery and outdoor environments.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with CWT tagging of salmon or relevant fish culture work (not required but beneficial).
• Supervisory experience, ideally in a field setting managing project-based crews.
• Additional experience in maintaining accurate data records and using tagging protocols.

Candidates who meet the required qualifications but may not have all preferred experience are still encouraged to apply, as NWIFC is committed to supporting skill development and growth

Why NWIFC?

Joining NWIFC means being part of a mission-driven organization dedicated to serving the treaty tribes of western Washington. Our work is guided by the member tribes’ commitment to protect natural resources for the next seven generations.

The organization has a 50-year history of providing direct support to the treaty tribes. Many staff choose to stay with NWIFC for decades because of the rewarding outcomes that lift up the tribes’ work as natural resource managers.

This role offers the chance to contribute to impactful work in a collaborative environment that values innovation, cultural sensitivity, and professional growth. NWIFC shares the values of the tribal communities it serves, including prioritizing family and preserving traditions.

The NWIFC offers a competitive benefits package, including multiple options for employer-paid health insurance through the Federal Employee Benefits Program, as well as employer-paid vision, dental, life, and disability insurance, and an employer contribution to a 401(k) with no match required.