Fisheries & Wildlife Liaison

The Fisheries & Wildlife Liaison position at Northwest Seaport Alliance involves serving as a liaison between various agencies to conduct analyses related to the Endangered Species Act and Essential Fish Habitat. Responsibilities include performing consultations, interpreting scientific data, coordinating project development issues, and ensuring the protection of fish and wildlife resources. A bachelor's degree in biological science and five years of relevant experience are required. The job is located in Tacoma, WA.
This position resides in either the Field Office of the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS)/US Fish and Wildlife Service or the Port of Tacoma Administration Building serving in a liaison role between the National Marine Fisheries Services (NMFS), U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS), the Northwest Seaport Alliance (NWSA), Port of Tacoma, and Port of Seattle, for purposes of conducting Endangered Species Act (ESA) and Essential Fish Habitat (EFH) analyses and reviews. These positions will assist NMFS, USFWS, NWSA and certain member ports in analyzing the effects of proposed port actions on regulated fish and wildlife resources occurring in and near marine, estuarine, and freshwater environments. Additionally, because ports are economic engines of national significance, this position will ensure timely, stream-lined review of port projects.
• Performs Section 7 Endangered Species Act and Magnuson-Stevens Essential Fish Habitat consultations on assigned port projects. Analyzes the effects of proposed port activities on listed species occurring in marine, estuarine, upland and riverine environments and the associated critical habitats. Prepares biological opinions, concurrence letters, and technical memoranda as part of formal, informal and programmatic consultations and with a focus on delivering work products to meet project-related timelines.
• Interprets scientific research findings, technical information, laws, guidelines, and policies related to fish and wildlife conservation/protection. Researches issues of concern and provides advance information to NWSA and member ports on areas that may affect future permitting activities in the context of port construction, conservation, restoration, and mitigation practices. Provides regular updates to NWSA and member ports leadership/staff.
• Coordinates and facilitates resolution of project development issues. Conducts and facilitates meetings for negotiation and conflict resolution on fish and wildlife conservation/protection issues with regulatory agencies, non-governmental agencies, treaty- tribes, and the public.
• Participates in NWSA administrative responsibilities including completing timesheets for project tracking and cost allocation and attending staff meetings, as necessary.
• Determines solutions and recommendations to problems concerning fish and wildlife resources based on habitat use and life history parameters. Evaluates potential adverse effects of port projects and ensures that they are avoided, minimized and/or mitigated to the extent practicable.
• Researches and applies Best Available Science (BAS) and Best Management Practices (BMPs) to aide in resolution of issues, inform decision-making, and manage adverse environmental impacts. Keeps ports apprised of upcoming changes, policy guidance, or listing decisions at the Services. Maintains strong, productive and professional working relationships with all entities. Communicates clearly and effectively about project effects to ensure timely permit reviews.

Bachelor’s degree in biological science with an emphasis in fishery sciences and aquatic animal sciences is required. A graduate degree in the field of fisheries, marine sciences, or conservation biology may substitute for three (3) years of required experience.

Minimum five (5) years' professional experience in related areas required. Knowledge of in-water construction methods, best management practices and application of real-life solutions is preferred.

This position requires knowledge of ESA-listed fish and wildlife life histories and habitat requirements in coastal Washington, Puget Sound, and theColumbia River; working knowledge of maritime construction activities (e.g., shoreline stabilization, dredging, shoreline development, pier construction, recreational facilities, habitat restoration, mitigation tools, and soil/sediment cleanup) and their potential effects on aquatic habitats; a demonstrated ability to write technical reports, briefing statements, and analyses; skill in communicating technical information to a diverse audience; and an ability to work collaboratively with a diverse range of interests to resolve complex natural resource issues. Additionally, a working knowledge of the ESA and other relevant local, state and federal environmental laws and regulations is desirable. Must be proficient in standard office software, including Microsoft Word, Excel, and Windows. Proficiency with relational databases, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Habitat Equivalency Analysis (HEA), and underwater noise modeling is desirable. The successful candidate will possess specialized expertise in marine sciences, aquatic biology, salmonid ecology, and/or wildlife ecology as well as experience reviewing permit applications and drafting decision documents.

Participates in the preparation and development of programmatic biological opinions for Puget Sound and Columbia River ports within each of their environmental settings.

Works to develop common understanding of port business and construction practices with federal agency staff.

Identifies and presents beneficial actions that have been or are being undertaken by ports that support fish and wildlife conservation, such as habitat restoration, community-stewardship programs, and other environmental initiatives.

Works closely with federal agency staff/management to ensure port project reviews, biological opinions, effects determinations,
and consultations are well understood and supported.

Perform other duties, assignments and special projects as requested by NWSA and certain member ports.