Conservation Biologist - Fish & Wildlife Biologist 1 - Permanent - *01436-25

The State of Washington is hiring a full-time Conservation Biologist to conduct biological assessments for butterfly species, particularly Taylor’s Checkerspot, in the south Puget Sound region. Responsibilities include conducting surveys, data management, habitat assessments, and restoration activities. The position requires fieldwork in various environments and collaboration with land managers. The job is based in Olympia, Washington, and involves both office and field settings.
Description

Working Title- Conservation Biologist

Classification- Fish & Wildlife Biologist 1

Job Status- Full-Time/Permanent

WDFW Program- Wildlife Program – Wildlife Diversity Division

Duty Station- Olympia, Washington – Thurston County

Learn more about being a member of Team WDFW!

Photo Caption – Taylor's Checkerspots – Photo Credit: WDFW

This is an opportunity to conduct seasonal biological assessments for native, state- and federally listed butterfly species and their habitats in the south Puget Sound region, in particular Taylor’s Checkerspot.

In this dynamic role, you will work with land managers to create, enhance, and maintain habitat for sensitive prairie- and oak- associated species.

What To Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, this position will:

Conducts professional biological surveys.
• Under the supervision of a senior biologist, assists with reintroduction of Taylor’s checkerspot butterfly.
• Conducts biological surveys for butterfly taxa (i.e., abundance, distribution) using standardized procedures.
• Collects and downloads data and monitoring equipment.
• Capture, handle, and release of adult and/or larval butterflies, surveys for larval nests, and monitors life stage development.
• Records tabular data on datasheets in the field. Records field conditions and notes.
• Lays out sampling grids and release areas at field sites using GPS technology.
• Recommends and implements improvements to data collection and management protocols.

Data Entry, Database Management, And Summary Reports.
• Transcribes data from voice recorders and field forms into standardized databases; reviews data for accuracy, identifies and corrects errors and inconsistencies, formats data and conducts statistical summary and analyses.
• Follows and/or develops prescribed procedures to organize and analyze data.
• Summarizes methods and findings in writing under the supervision of permanent agency biologists for incorporation into professional reports.
• Customizes electronic forms and geodatabases and collects, imports, and manages biological and restoration field data using GIS technology, MS office, and other tools.

Conducts vegetation and habitat assessments.
• Conducts vegetation surveys and habitat monitoring in prairie and oak woodlands under supervision of a senior biologist.
• Lays out of sampling grids and conducts habitat assessments.
• Enters data on iPads and uploads/downloads between GIS and GPS technologies.
• Recommends and implements improvements to data collection and management protocols under the supervision of an agency biologist.

Conducts habitat restoration activities.
• Assists with planning and implementation of oak woodland and grassland habitat restoration. This may include participation in planning meetings, seeding, planting, seed inventory and mixing.
• Assist with prescribed burn preparation and mop up, minor fence repairs, brush-cutting, shrub removal, and chemical spray application under the supervision of a licensed pesticide applicator.

Working Conditions

Work setting: Work is conducted in an office and in the field. Field work may occur in wetland, forest, and prairie environments in the south Puget lowlands, and may require walking through water wearing chest-waders. Field work often involves walking up to 10 miles per day on uneven surfaces while carrying up to 40 lbs in adverse weather conditions. Some worksites on Joint Base Lewis-McChord may contain unexploded ordnance (live artillery); which requires special training and safety equipment (flak jacket and helmet). Wildland fire certification requires completion of the Work Capacity Test at the Arduous level and work with fire practitioners to implement prescribed fire to maintain species habitats. This position may involve working in or near water, including tasks that require navigating, negotiating, and performing duties related to water environments.

Schedule: Typically, 40-hour work week, Monday – Thursday. Because this position is one member of a field team, flexibility is required dependent on the time of year and the task. Fieldwork is often weather dependent and unpredictable, and some weekend/on-call work may be required, as well as work in excess of 40 hrs. if needed to meet deadlines and/or business demands.

Travel requirements: May include extended travel and evening or overnight trips. Travel to field sites located within 200 miles of assigned duty station and may require occasional regional travel or attendance at evening meetings.

Customer Interactions: Effective information delivery to the public, project partners, local government officials, and special interest groups (e.g., conservation, recreation, etc.).

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

Option 1: A Bachelor’s degree (B.S.) in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, environmental science, entomology or biology.

Option 2: Equivalent education/experience in insect or nongame wildlife monitoring and/or data collection and analysis.

Option 3: Four (4) years of qualifying experience in insect or nongame wildlife monitoring and/or data collection and analysis.

License

A valid current and unrestricted (other than corrective lenses) driver’s license.

Experience/Proficiency In

Coordinating and/or leading technical or nontechnical volunteers and staff.

Proficiency in using GPS, Microsoft Office and ArcGIS software

Special Requirements/Conditions Of Employment

Successful candidates must obtain a Wildland Firefighter Type II certification at the Arduous level from a valid certifying agency. While fire-related duties are rare, they may be required and are estimated to total approximately two days per year.

Preferred Qualifications

In addition to the required qualifications, our ideal applicant will possess some or all the following:
• Two (2) years professional experience conducting field research.
• Familiarity with and experience in insect identification, taxonomy, monitoring, and conservation.
• Experience summarizing large data sets and tracking work completed for complex projects.

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.

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 Cheri.Potter@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 Cheri.Potter@dfw.wa.gov and reference job #2025-01436.

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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 WAC 357-31-165(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 WAC 357-31-165(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 WAC 357-58-175, 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, are entitled to three (3) 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

Parental Leave

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 12-31-2022

01

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.

02

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.

03

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.

04

Select the option below that best describes your experience in insect or nongame wildlife monitoring and/or data collection and analysis.
• 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 4 years or more of this experience.

05

Please briefly list where you gained your experience in insect or nongame wildlife monitoring and/or data collection and analysis. Your answer should be reflected in the work history section of your application. 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.

06

Do you have experience coordinating and/or leading technical or nontechnical volunteers and staff?
• Yes
• No

07

Please briefly describe your experience conducting butterfly surveys in the field, including the type of butterfly and the survey technique(s) used. Your answer should be reflected in the work history section of your application. 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.

08

Select the options below in which you are proficient. Select all that apply.
• GPS.
• Microsoft Office.
• ArcGIS software.

09

Do you have experience summarizing large data sets and tracking work completed for complex projects?
• Yes
• No

10

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
• 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

11

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

12

Are you currently a permanent employee of the Department of Fish and Wildlife? ("Permanent employee" means an employee who has attained permanent status in a job classification upon successful completion of a probationary, trial service, or transition review period; this would include "Seasonal Career" appointments).
• Yes
• No
• Required Question