Job Description

Salary: $4,653.00 - $6,259.00 Monthly
Location : Snohomish County - Other, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number: [click to reveal phone number]2025-05940
Department: Dept. of Fish and Wildlife
Opening Date: 08/22/2025
Closing Date: 9/[click to reveal phone number]4/2025 11 :59 PM Pacific

Description
Title- Forage Fish Biologist

Classification- Fish & Wildlife Biologist 2

Job Status- Full-Time/Permanent WDFW Program- Fish Program - Fish Management Duty Station- Mill Creek, Washington - Snohomish County
Learn more about being a member of Team WDFW !
Photo Caption: Fish Smelt Tagging and Beach Seining - Photo Credit: WDFW
Join WDFW's Marine Fish Science Unit and play a critical part of the effective assessment and management of forage fish resources in Washington state.
As a Forage Fish Biologist, you will conduct professional biological studies, monitor and coordinate sample collection of plankton and forage fish, and provide assessments of fish and ecosystem data.
This dynamic role is an opportunity to travel throughout all marine waters of Washington State, collect and analyze data, and work with a variety of researchers from state and federal governments, tribes, academic agencies, and other partners to support valuable recreational and commercial fisheries.
What to Expect-

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Forage Fish Biologist will,
Serve as the Coordinator for the Puget Sound Zooplankton Monitoring Program:

• Organize and facilitate meetings with the program's steering committee, sampling partners, and the Principal Investigator at the University of Washington.
• Monitor inventory of equipment and supplies, and purchase, replace, and repair inventory as needed to avoid interruptions to sample collection and analysis.
• Facilitate collections and transfer of samples and supplies.
• Regularly engage with program partners through email, phone, and virtual/in-person meetings to ensure they have the information and support they need.
• Maintain and update iForms digital data forms and ensure that data is efficiently transferred between sampling partners with the PI.
• Perform data quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC).
• Support communication and collaboration between the zooplankton program and other sampling efforts.
• Assist with the development of project proposals and grant applications.

Conduct forage fish and coastal pelagic species research and monitoring:

• Trailer and operate small vessels on marine waters during all seasons to conduct forage fish egg deposition surveys.
• Identify fish eggs in the field.
• Collect biological data and samples at sea while aboard commercial and research vessels, sometimes for extended periods of time.
• Ensure field and lab equipment are maintained in good working order.
• Perform lab processing and data entry.
• Train and supervise staff and volunteers.
• Assist with annual permit applications and reporting.

Working Conditions:
Work Setting, including hazards: Work occurs in office, laboratory, and field settings.
Laboratory work includes long periods looking through a microscope, handling potentially dangerous chemicals, use of sharp tools, exposure to frozen or chemically preserved samples and specimens, and foul odors.
Field work occurs outdoors on beaches and marine waters using small boats during all times of the year including inclement weather. May encounter loud noises, fish blood and slime, and possible punctures from fish spines or teeth. Work on slippery, often unstable, surfaces with various nets, lines, cables, winches, and pot pullers which may pose a risk of entanglement, pinch points, and recoil. Vehicles and vessels during boat launch and retrieval, rough water, odors, repetitive movements of hands, finger manipulations, long periods of sitting, squatting, walking, boating, climbing in and out of boats, carrying, kneeling, frequently lifting or moving 40-pound scientific equipment and portable gas tanks, working and standing in a confined space, wearing bulky gear, and use of knives. This position may involve working in or near water, including tasks that require navigating, negotiating, and performing duties related to water environments
Schedule: Typically, Monday - Thursday, 7:00 A.M. - 5:30 P.M. During some times of the year, work may exceed 40 hours per week and be outside core working hours. Evening and weekend work will be expected.
Travel Requirements: Overnight travel is required. Occasional long-term, continuous travel assignments may occur for work about research vessels, approximately three (3) weeks long.
Tools and Equipment: Boats, vehicles, trailers, personal computers, GPS, transducers, table, phone, microscope, chemicals, freezers, knives, pot pullers, tag readers, tag injectors, personal floatation device (PFD), and waders.
Customer Interactions: Interact with commercial and recreational fishers, tribal and other government employees, and staff from non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and academic partners.
Qualifications:

Required Qualifications:
A Bachelor's degree in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, environmental science, or related field AND one (1) year of professional experience in fish management/research, wildlife management/research, or habitat management/research.
Please note:

• A Master's degree in the applicable science will substitute for one (1) year of the required experience.
• Closely related qualifying experience may be substituted for the required education on a year-by-year basis.

Certifications/Licenses:

Valid Driver's License.
Preferred Qualifications:

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

• One (1) year safely trailering and operating small vessels in large bodies of water including during times of inclement weather.
• One (1) year using a variety of fish collection methods including seines, trawls, and/or tangle nets.
• Two (2) years collecting and analyzing biological data from fish and fish eggs including species ID, assessing age, development, fecundity, and biometrics.
• Two (2) years providing support in the form of logistics, training, communication, and organization, for a diverse group working on a common project.
• One (1) year processing biological samples in a lab. including the safe usage and handling of laboratory equipment and chemicals.
• Two (2) years using spreadsheets, databases, statistical, and word-processing software to enter, compile, review, and analyze data and produce reports.
• Working at sea in rough conditions.
• With geodata and GIS software.
• Developing and using digital data forms, such as iForms.
• Developing reports to disseminate the results of surveys and other studies.

Knowledge:

• Familiarity with fisheries management principles, and with Washington State forage fish fisheries, rules, and regulations.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite.
• Understanding of agency and program procedures and policies and willingness to comply with established processes, policies, and WACs.

Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment:

Successful completion of agency training and/or certification for assigned watercraft is dependent on supervisory direction, position need, and training availability.

• Washington State Boater Education Card or valid U.S. Coast Guard Marine Operator License must be obtained within one (1) month of hire.
• Motorboat Operator Certification Course or Motorboat Training Course must be completed within one (1) year of hire.

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 professional references with current contact information.

Supplemental 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 - W AFWP:
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 [click to reveal email address] 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: [click to reveal phone number]2025-1234 - 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 [click to reveal phone number]360-902-2278 or email [click to reveal email address] Jayme.Chase@dfw.wa.gov , or the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) at [click to reveal phone number]800-833-6388 .

Technical Difficulties: If you are having technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application, please call NEOGOV toll-free at [click to reveal phone number](855) 524-5627 or

Other questions: If you have other questions regarding this position, please reach out to and reference job #[click to reveal phone number]2025-05940 .

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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 [click to reveal phone number]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 07-21-2025
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

Select the option below that best describes your experience in Fish Management/Research, Wildlife Management/Research, or Habitat Management/Research.

• I do not have this experience.
• I have less than 1 year of this experience.
• I have between 1 and 3 years of this experience.
• I have between 3 and 5 years of this experience.
• I have 5 years or more of this experience.

06

Please briefly describe your experience in Fish Management/Research, Wildlife Management/Research, or Habitat Management/Research. ("See Resume" is not a valid response. If you do not have this experience, put N/A).
07

Select the option(s) below that you have at least one (1) year of experience in. (Select all that apply).

• Safely trailering and operating small vessels in large bodies of water, including during times of inclement weather.
• Using a variety of fish collection methods including seines, trawls, and/or tangle nets.
• Processing biological samples in a lab, including the safe usage and handling of laboratory equipment and chemicals.
• None of the above.

08

Select the option(s) below that you have at least two (2) years of experience in. (Select all that apply).

• Collecting and analyzing biological data from fish and fish eggs including species ID, assessing age, development, fecundity, and biometrics.
• Providing support in the form of logistics, training, communication, and organization, for a diverse group working on a common project.
• Using spreadsheets, databases, statistical, and word-processing software to enter, compile, review, and analyze data and produce reports.
• None of the above.

09

Please briefly describe your experience working at sea and/or operating vessels in rough conditions. ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).
10

Please briefly describe your familiarity with fisheries management principals, and with Washington State forage fish fisheries, rules, and regulations. ("See Resume" is not a valid response. If you do not have this experience, put N/A).
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
• Facebook
• Four W's Fishing Team, LLC - Willard Franklin III, LinkedIn
• Handshake
• Hiring Event/Workshop
• Indeed.com
• Job Board
• Job Fair
• LinkedIn
• MHCC - Mount Hood Community College
• Newspaper
• Other
• Other State Agency
• Other Website
• Professional Association
• Society of American Foresters (SAF)
• Texas A&M
• Twitter
• University Job Board
• UW College of the Environment
• WDFW Employee
• WDFW Recruiter
• WDFW Website
• Word of Mouth
• WorkSource

12

Tell us more - kindly share which website, organization, person, or other source led you to this job posting.
Required Question

Job Tags

Permanent employment, Full time, Part time, Internship, Seasonal work, Work at office, Flexible hours, Shift work, Night shift, Weekend work, Afternoon shift,

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