Working Title- Screw Trap and Tagging Technician
Classification- Scientific Technician 2
Openings- Two (2)
Job Status- Full-Time/Non-Permanent
Appointment/Season Length- 4 Months – February 2, 2025 – May 30, 2025
WDFW Program- Fish Program – Science Division
Duty Station- Dayton, Washington – Columbia County

Learn more about being a member of Team WDFW!

Expand your knowledge and experience in fishery sampling through fish trap operation, fish tagging, and refining your data collection abilities!

In this dynamic role, you will travel within Southeast Washington to help maintain fish traps and ensure they are running smoothly.

Provide critical support to WDFW’s conservation efforts by collecting and reporting vital data on Endangered Species Act (ESA)-listed salmonid populations.

What to Expect-

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Screw Trap and Tagging Technician will,

Assist in the Operation of Rotary Screw Traps:

• Lift traps with winches to safely remove obstructions and ensure that rotary screw traps are running smoothly.

Sample Juvenile Salmonids to Collect Biological Data:

• Sample juvenile salmonids by safely using MS-222 (anesthesia) to count the number of fish by species, collect length and weight samples on captured salmonids, and collect scale samples for age analysis.

Tag Salmonids:

• Safely insert Passive Integrated Transponder (PIT) tags into selected species of fish with syringes.

Data Entry:

• Accurately enter collected data into the computer database.

 Working Conditions:

Work Setting, including hazards: Work is primarily performed outside in all weather conditions. Work on slippery surfaces in and near rivers and around loud noises. Frequently lift 5-gallon buckets, filled with water and fish for short distances, weighing 50 pounds. Must be able to negotiate water in emergency situations.

Schedule: Working hours will vary and include night shift (7 P.M. – 3 A.M.). May work weekends and holidays.

Travel Requirements: Travel to trapping sites within southeast Washington.

Tools and Equipment: Smolt traps, Coded Wire Tag (CWT) and Passive Integrated Transponder (PIT) tag scanning equipment, hand saws, come-alongs, and winches.

Qualifications:

Required Qualifications:

Graduation from high school or GED, including one (1) year of high school science AND two (2) years of experience as a Scientific Technician 1.

OR

Graduation from high school or GED, including one (1) year of high school science AND two (2) years of laboratory or field experience as an assistant to a biologist, chemist, or zoologist.

Please note: 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 the course work includes at least six (6) semester or nine (9) quarter hours of natural science classes.

Certifications/Licenses:
Valid Driver’s License.

Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment:
Successful completion of agency training and/or certification is required for smolt trapping positions including:

• Swiftwater Safety Training.
• CPR/AED/First Aid Training (HSI certification is most preferred).

Preferred Qualifications:

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

Experience:

• Operating smolt traps.
• Identifying juvenile salmonids.
• Passive Integrated Transponder (PIT) tagging fish.

Your application should include the following:

• A completed online application.
• An up-to-date resume (chronological preferred) showcasing how your qualifications align with the job requirements.
• A cover letter detailing your interest in the position, your relevant skills and experience, and why you are the ideal candidate.
• At least three 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 danielle.gustafson@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 danielle.gustafson@dfw.wa.gov and reference job #2024-13876

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