Forage Fish Biologist For Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife

Description: This is an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in fisheries while working with a team of dedicated biologists focused on the assessment and management of forage fish in the Puget Sound. Envision yourself in the field collecting samples and interacting with local anglers to contribute to important research that supports sustainable fish populations. In addition to fieldwork, this role includes laboratory duties that include processing biological samples and preparing reports that inform management decisions.

Responsibilities: 

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Forage Fish Biologist will,

Conduct field surveys of marine fish species:

• Operate and trailer small vessels and conduct egg deposition surveys.
• Deploy and retrieve a variety of nets including seines and plankton nets in a marine environment.
• Interview and collect samples from commercial and recreational fishmen and collect data.

Data entry and management:

• Enter new and historic data into database and spreadsheets.
• Organize and retrieve data for analysis and summary reports.
• Ensure data quality assurance and control (QA/QC).

Process biological samples and perform other lab tasks under supervision of a senior biologist

• Assess biological condition of forage fish and other marine fish by dissection.
• Assist with determining the age of specimens using scales and/or otoliths.
• Evaluate fecundity and sex of specimens through examination of reproductive organs.
• Ensure sample processing and lab safety procedures are followed.

Work setting, including hazards: 

• Work in office, laboratory, and field environments, including beaches and marine waters, operating small boats year-round.  
• Laboratory work may include long periods looking through a microscope, repetitive motion, florescent lighting, handling chemicals (e.g., formalin, ethyl alcohol, hydrochloric acid), use of sharp tools, and exposure to frozen or chemically preserved samples, specimens or foul odors. 
• Fieldwork may include exposure to inclement weather, loud noises, fish blood and slime, punctures from fish spines or teeth. 
• Work on slippery and unstable surfaces while handling nets, lines, cables, winches, and pot pullers which may pose a risk of entanglement, pinch points, and recoil. 
• Operate vehicles and vessels during boat launch and retrieval, perform tasks in rough waters and around strong odors. Engage in repetitive movements, long periods of sitting, squatting, walking, boating, climbing in and out of boats, carrying, kneeling, lifting (40 lb. max), 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: Monday – Thursday, working 10 hours per day, 40 hours per week. The standard work schedule includes the potential for occasional evening or weekend work as needed. Schedule may vary based on business needs, time of year, and/or weather conditions.

Travel Requirements: Overnight travel is required. Occasional long term travel assignments may occur (approximately 2 weeks).

Tools and Equipment: Boats, vehicles, trailers, personal computers, GPS, transducers, tablet, phone, microscope, chemicals, freezers, knives, pot pullers, tag readers and injectors, personal flotation device (PFD), and waders.

Customer Interactions: Interact with commercial/recreational fishers, Tribal, other government employees, and staff from non-governmental organizations (NGO) and academic partners.

Qualifications:

Required Qualifications: 

Bachelor’s degree in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, or environmental science. 

Or

Equivalent experience or a combination of both may substitute for the degree.

Certifications/Licenses:

Valid Driver’s License.

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 completed within one (1) month of hire 
• WDFW motorboat operator training must be successfully completed within one (1) year of hire.

Preferred Qualifications:

In addition to the required qualifications, our ideal applicant will possess one or more of the following:

Six (6) months or more of experience in: 

• Fisheries management principles, including Washington State forage fish fisheries, regulations, and agency protocols.
• Communicating with staff, stakeholders, or the public in a professional setting. 
• Developing written reports to present survey or study results.
• Collecting and sampling shellfish.
• Making timely decisions in changing field conditions.
• Managing multiple tasks or workloads and meeting deadlines.

One (1) year or more of experience in:

• Safely trailering, launching, and operating small vessels on large bodies of water, including in inclement weather.
• Using fish collection methods such as seines, trawls or tangle nets.
• Collecting and analyzing biological data from fish and/or fish eggs, including species identification, aging, development assessment, fecundity, and biometric measurements.
• Laboratory experience processing biological samples, including safe handling of equipment and chemicals.
• Coordinating field schedules, logistics, or team operations to support assessment surveys or biological studies.
• Managing complex field operations and demonstrating safe work practices.

Two (2) years or more of experience in:

• Using computers and software (e.g., spreadsheets, databases, statistical tools, word processing) to enter, compile, analyze data, and produce reports.
• Developing or using digital data collection tools (e.g., iForms).
• Microsoft Office Suite and use of email/internet for research and communication.

Licenses and Certifications: 

• Washington State Boater Education Card or valid U.S. Coast Guard Marine Operator License.
• Completion of a Motorboat Operator Certification Course (MOCC) or Motorboat Operator Training Course (MOTC).

Your application must 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.

Learn more about this job with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and apply here.