Job Details
Chehalis Smolt Trapping Biologist - Fish & Wildlife Biologist 2 - Permanent
2026-02-03 State of Washington all cities,AK
Description:
Work setting: Approximately 50% field and 50% office (telework eligible for up to 80% office work). Work is performed in inclement weather and cold water for several hours at a time. Handle and relocate adult salmonids that weigh up to 40 pounds. Smolt traps are accessed by traversing slippery terrain, operating small watercraft, climbing over railings, and maintaining balance on a moving deck in sometimes harsh weather conditions. This position may involve working in or near water, including tasks that require navigating, negotiating, and performing duties related to water environments. Safe use of various chemicals. May operate motorized or non-motorized (i.e., kayaks, inflatable pontoon boats) watercraft depending on experience.
Schedule: Full-time, working 40 hours per week. The standard work schedule is Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, however, the schedule includes the potential for occasional evening or weekend work as needed. Schedules may vary based on business needs, time of year, and/or weather conditions, or emergencies.
Travel requirements: Travel occurs from the office to sampling sites with WDFW vehicles. Some local and regional travel is necessary to pick up sampling gear and attend trainings. Overnight travel is extremely rare but may occur to attend workshops and conferences.
Customer Interactions: Interacts with public on a regular basis while conducting fieldwork. Occasionally confronted by citizens that are non-compliant or not cooperative. Coordinates regularly with landowners.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Required Qualifications:
A Bachelor's degree in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, or environmental science.
And
One (1) year of professional experience in fish/wildlife/habitat management or research.
Please note: Professional equivalent experience may substitute year-for-year for the education requirement - this experience must be in aquatic invasive species, fish, wildlife, or natural resource management.
A Master's degree or Ph.D. degree in the applicable science will substitute for the required experience.
License: Valid driver's license.
Preferred Qualifications:
In addition to the required qualifications, our ideal applicant will possess some or all the following:
Experience:
Three (3) years of experience in a natural resources-related field.
Acquiring permits for land access and scientific collections.
With mechanics, fabrication, installation, operation, and maintenance of juvenile and adult fish traps.
Using fish tagging techniques (PIT, CWT, VIE).
Operating and/or working in and around boats, trailers, etc.
Towing/trailering boats and/or trailers (i.e., flatbeds).
Using handheld data collection devices (i.e., smartphones, iPads, etc.) in the field and entering data using platforms such as iForms or Survey 123.
With MS Office (i.e., Access, Teams, Excel, PowerApps).
With Program R.
Ability to:
Identify juvenile and adult salmonids using a taxonomic key or field guide.
Manage workloads and schedules for field crews, organize and prioritize tasks, work efficiently.
Negotiate resolution of disputes between competing parties.
Research, write, and adapt field protocols under supervision.
Ability to manage and maintain computer files and use data collection software (e.g., Microsoft Excel, iForms) including the use of computer tablets for data collection.
Perform data QA/QC and maintain databases of field data.
Apply research and statistical methods and techniques to a project or program.
Synthesize research findings and formulate fish management recommendations.
Be mindful and safety conscious, including reminding others of appropriate safety practices to minimize the likelihood of accidents.
Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
Maintain good working relationships with field crew, coworkers, other state, federal, and tribal organizations as well as the public.
Use hand and power tools.
Hike long distances (up to 10 miles/day).
Certification & Trainings:
First Aid/CPR/AED Certified.
Your application should include the following:
In addition to and other , there are other 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:
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 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:
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-###-#### or email , or the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) at 800-###-####.
Technical Difficulties: If you are having technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application, please call NEOGOV toll-free at (855) ###-#### or
Other questions: If you have other questions regarding this position, please reach out to and reference job number/title from the top of this posting.
Follow us on social media:LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram
cp
More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.
The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.
Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.
Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.
Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.
Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.
Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.
Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.
Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
As provided in , an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.
Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.
Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.
Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.
Additional Leave
Leave Sharing
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 01-07-2026
01
Are you currently an employee of the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife? This includes permanent, non-permanent, intern, project, and career seasonal.
02
Do you have a valid driver's license?
03
Please select the option below that best describes the highest level of education you have completed.
04
What is your major area of study? If you possess multiple degrees, please list each degree and major. (If this does not apply to you, please put N/A.) This includes both vocational and college education.
05
Which option best describes your professional experience in fish/wildlife/habitat management or research?
06
Please list where you gained your professional experience in fish/wildlife/habitat management or research. Include the name of the organization(s) where you worked and dates of employment. FOR EXAMPLE: WDFW, F&W Biologist, 2020 - present. If you do not have this experience, enter "N/A" in the box below. Do not write "See application/resume/cover letter" as those are not valid responses.
07
Do you have experience acquiring permits for land access and scientific collections?
08
Please describe your experience with mechanics, fabrication, installation, operation, and maintenance of juvenile and adult fish traps. Include the name of the organization(s) where you worked and dates of employment. FOR EXAMPLE: WDFW, F&W Biologist, 2020 - present. If you do not have this experience, enter "N/A" in the box below. Do not write "See application/resume/cover letter" as those are not valid responses.
09
Select the fish tagging techniques you have experiencing using. Select all that apply.
10
Select the options below in which you possess experience. Select all that apply.
11
How did you hear about this job posting? (Select all that apply).
12
Tell us more - kindly share which website, organization, person, or other source led you to this job posting.
Required Question
Salary: $4,653.00 - $6,259.00 Monthly
Location : Thurston County - Olympia, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 2026-00860
Department: Dept. of Fish and Wildlife
Opening Date: 01/29/2026
Closing Date: 2/8/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
Description
Working Title- Chehalis Smolt Trapping Biologist
Classification- Fish & WildlifeBiologist 2
Job Status- Full-Time/Permanent
WDFW Program- Fish Program - Fish Science Division
Duty Station- *Olympia, Washington - Thurston County
*While this position may offer a telework option, the successful candidate must be available to report to the duty station as needed.
Learn more about being a member of Team WDFW!
Photo Caption - Aerial view of Satsop River - Photo Credit: WDFW
Are you passionate about conserving and protecting native fish and wildlife?
With your experience, you will collect, organize, and analyze data that is used to understand the abundance of juvenile and adult salmonids in the Chehalis River Basin.
We are seeking a candidate to conduct research and serve as the field lead responsible for smolt trapping in the Chehalis Basin and monitoring adult upstream passage.
WHAT TO EXPECT -
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, this position will:
Lead data collection and data communication at Bingham Creek Wild Coho Monitoring Station.
- Work with supervisor to develop and finalize protocols annually.
- Organize and conduct juvenile and adult trapping data annually using established procedures.
- Develop initial reports of data collected on juvenile abundance, marine survival, and jack and adult returns.
- Provide recommendations to higher level fish and wildlife staff for management actions.
- Maintain records and prepare oral presentations and detailed summary reports, assist with publications, and conduct higher level quality control and quality assurance on all data.
- Participate in annual smolt trapping meeting, providing technical advice and support.
- Identify repairs needed with trapping equipment and ensure repairs are completed.
- Ensure data are entered and properly backed up in a timely fashion.
- Communicate research results in agency reports, peer reviewed literature, and oral presentations.
- Work with supervisor to develop smolt trapping protocols annually, perform research, and assist in preparing research reports based on those activities.
- Coordinate with agency partners, and other entities (Chehalis Tribe, County, Conservation District, etc.) to conduct trapping work.
- Organize and conduct smolt trapping research on Chehalis River to determine juvenile fish abundance using established procedures.
- Develop initial reports of data collected and provide recommendations to higher level fish and wildlife staff for management actions.
- Maintain records and prepare oral presentations and detailed summary reports, assist with publications, and conduct higher level quality control and quality assurance on all data.
- Participate in annual smolt trapping meeting providing technical advice and support.
- Ensure data are entered and properly backed up in a timely fashion.
- Hire, train, and supervise multiple Scientific Technicians for smolt and adult monitoring.
- Counsel and settle employee conflicts, enlisting help of supervisor when necessary.
- Ensure staff are up to date with required training.
- Purchase, organize, maintain, and inventory all project equipment and keep a record of all purchases.
- Obtain permission to work on private and public property.
- Conduct special projects and research as requested by supervisor.
- Provide expertise and support for ongoing and new salmonid smolt monitoring research outside of primary study basins.
- Attend meetings, workshops, and/or scientific conferences.
Work setting: Approximately 50% field and 50% office (telework eligible for up to 80% office work). Work is performed in inclement weather and cold water for several hours at a time. Handle and relocate adult salmonids that weigh up to 40 pounds. Smolt traps are accessed by traversing slippery terrain, operating small watercraft, climbing over railings, and maintaining balance on a moving deck in sometimes harsh weather conditions. This position may involve working in or near water, including tasks that require navigating, negotiating, and performing duties related to water environments. Safe use of various chemicals. May operate motorized or non-motorized (i.e., kayaks, inflatable pontoon boats) watercraft depending on experience.
Schedule: Full-time, working 40 hours per week. The standard work schedule is Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, however, the schedule includes the potential for occasional evening or weekend work as needed. Schedules may vary based on business needs, time of year, and/or weather conditions, or emergencies.
Travel requirements: Travel occurs from the office to sampling sites with WDFW vehicles. Some local and regional travel is necessary to pick up sampling gear and attend trainings. Overnight travel is extremely rare but may occur to attend workshops and conferences.
Customer Interactions: Interacts with public on a regular basis while conducting fieldwork. Occasionally confronted by citizens that are non-compliant or not cooperative. Coordinates regularly with landowners.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Required Qualifications:
A Bachelor's degree in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, or environmental science.
And
One (1) year of professional experience in fish/wildlife/habitat management or research.
Please note: Professional equivalent experience may substitute year-for-year for the education requirement - this experience must be in aquatic invasive species, fish, wildlife, or natural resource management.
A Master's degree or Ph.D. degree in the applicable science will substitute for the required experience.
License: Valid driver's license.
Preferred Qualifications:
In addition to the required qualifications, our ideal applicant will possess some or all the following:
Experience:
Three (3) years of experience in a natural resources-related field.
Acquiring permits for land access and scientific collections.
With mechanics, fabrication, installation, operation, and maintenance of juvenile and adult fish traps.
Using fish tagging techniques (PIT, CWT, VIE).
Operating and/or working in and around boats, trailers, etc.
Towing/trailering boats and/or trailers (i.e., flatbeds).
Using handheld data collection devices (i.e., smartphones, iPads, etc.) in the field and entering data using platforms such as iForms or Survey 123.
With MS Office (i.e., Access, Teams, Excel, PowerApps).
With Program R.
Ability to:
Identify juvenile and adult salmonids using a taxonomic key or field guide.
Manage workloads and schedules for field crews, organize and prioritize tasks, work efficiently.
Negotiate resolution of disputes between competing parties.
Research, write, and adapt field protocols under supervision.
Ability to manage and maintain computer files and use data collection software (e.g., Microsoft Excel, iForms) including the use of computer tablets for data collection.
Perform data QA/QC and maintain databases of field data.
Apply research and statistical methods and techniques to a project or program.
Synthesize research findings and formulate fish management recommendations.
Be mindful and safety conscious, including reminding others of appropriate safety practices to minimize the likelihood of accidents.
Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
Maintain good working relationships with field crew, coworkers, other state, federal, and tribal organizations as well as the public.
Use hand and power tools.
Hike long distances (up to 10 miles/day).
Certification & Trainings:
First Aid/CPR/AED Certified.
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.
In addition to and other , there are other 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:
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 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
- 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-###-#### or email , or the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) at 800-###-####.
Technical Difficulties: If you are having technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application, please call NEOGOV toll-free at (855) ###-#### or
Other questions: If you have other questions regarding this position, please reach out to and reference job number/title from the top of this posting.
Follow us on social media:LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram
cp
More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.
The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.
Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.
Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.
Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.
Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.
Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.
Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.
Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
As provided in , an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.
Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.
Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.
Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.
Additional Leave
Leave Sharing
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 01-07-2026
01
Are you currently an employee of the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife? This includes permanent, non-permanent, intern, project, and career seasonal.
- Yes
- No
02
Do you have a valid driver's license?
- Yes, I have a current valid driver's license.
- No, I do not have a current valid driver's license.
03
Please select the option below that best describes the highest level of education you have completed.
- High School Diploma/GED.
- Some College.
- Vocational Degree or Certificate.
- Associate's Degree.
- Bachelor's Degree.
- Master's Degree.
- Ph.D.
- None of the above.
04
What is your major area of study? If you possess multiple degrees, please list each degree and major. (If this does not apply to you, please put N/A.) This includes both vocational and college education.
05
Which option best describes your professional experience in fish/wildlife/habitat management or research?
- I do not have this experience.
- I have less than 1 year of this experience.
- I have between 1 year and 2 years of this experience.
- I have between 2 years and 3 years of this experience.
- I have between 3 years and 4 years of this experience.
- I have between 4 years and 5 years of this experience.
- I have 5 years or more of this experience.
06
Please list where you gained your professional experience in fish/wildlife/habitat management or research. Include the name of the organization(s) where you worked and dates of employment. FOR EXAMPLE: WDFW, F&W Biologist, 2020 - present. If you do not have this experience, enter "N/A" in the box below. Do not write "See application/resume/cover letter" as those are not valid responses.
07
Do you have experience acquiring permits for land access and scientific collections?
- Yes, I have experience acquiring permits for land access and scientific collections.
- No, I do not have this experience.
08
Please describe your experience with mechanics, fabrication, installation, operation, and maintenance of juvenile and adult fish traps. Include the name of the organization(s) where you worked and dates of employment. FOR EXAMPLE: WDFW, F&W Biologist, 2020 - present. If you do not have this experience, enter "N/A" in the box below. Do not write "See application/resume/cover letter" as those are not valid responses.
09
Select the fish tagging techniques you have experiencing using. Select all that apply.
- PIT.
- CWT.
- VIE.
10
Select the options below in which you possess experience. Select all that apply.
- Operating boats, trailers, etc.
- Working in and around boats, trailers, etc.
- Towing or trailering boats.
- Towing or trailering trailers (i.e., flatbeds).
11
How did you hear about this job posting? (Select all that apply).
- American Fisheries Society (AFS)
- Careers.wa.gov
- Community Based Organization
- Community/Technical College
- Conservation Job Board
- El Informador
- Four W's Fishing Team, LLC - Willard Franklin III, LinkedIn
- Handshake
- Hiring Event/Workshop
- Hydraulic Institute (HI)
- Indeed.com
- Job Board
- Job Fair
- Mount Hood Community College (MHCC)
- Newspaper
- Other
- Other State Agency
- Other Website
- Professional Association
- Society of American Foresters (SAF)
- Texas A&M
- University Job Board
- UW College of the Environment
- WDFW Employee
- WDFW Recruiter
- WDFW Website
- Word of Mouth
- WorkSource
- X (formerly Twitter)
12
Tell us more - kindly share which website, organization, person, or other source led you to this job posting.
Required Question