Wildlife Area Technician - Natural Resource Tech 3 (in-training option) - Permanent - *01400-25

The Wildlife Area Technician position at the State of Washington is a full-time, permanent role focused on managing and maintaining wildlife areas to enhance habitats and recreational opportunities. Responsibilities include implementing habitat projects, conducting vegetation management, and maintaining facilities. The job requires operating various equipment and ensuring public safety. The position is based in Walla Walla, WA, with specific duty stations throughout the year.
Description

Title- Wildlife Area Technician

Classification- Natural Resource Technician 3 *(in-training)

Job Status- Full-Time/Permanent

WDFW Program- Wildlife Program – Lands Division

Duty Station- 312 Mt. Vale Rd. Selah, WA – March 16-December 15

16601 Hwy. 12 Naches, WA – December 16-March 15
• We are recruiting to hire at the Natural Resource Technician 2 or 3 level. We will train a new hire at level 2 up to the Natural Resource Technician 3 level.

Depending on which level you are hired at, your salary will be as follows:

Natural Resource Technician 2 - $3,028.00 - $3,999.00 Monthly

Natural Resource Technician 3 - $3,393.00 - $4,517.00 Monthly

Learn more about being a member of Team WDFW!

Photo Caption: Two elk colliding – Photo Credit: Geoffrey Dodd

The Natural Resource Technician 3, under the direction of the Wildlife Area Manager and Assistant Manager, supports the management and maintenance of a Wildlife Area to enhance fish and wildlife habitats and recreational opportunities. This role involves implementing habitat improvement projects, maintaining facilities and infrastructure, inspecting public access areas for safety and aesthetics, conducting vegetation management, and assisting in project development. The position plays a key role in ensuring the health and sustainability of wildlife areas while providing professional service to the public.

What To Expect-

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Wildlife Area Technician will,

Plan, coordinate and implement projects to protect, maintain, and improve habitats, species, and recreational opportunities on the Wildlife Area:
• Implement Wildlife Area projects.
• Restore/enhance/maintain wildlife habitats.
• Implement Integrated Pest Management plan and apply herbicides as needed.
• Conduct agricultural activities such as mowing, disking, seeding, and trimming trees.
• Operate a variety of small and heavy equipment to include brush cutters, chainsaws ATVs, UTV’s, tractors, and excavators.
• Inspects, manage, and maintain access areas and public use resources on the wildlife area to ensure the health and safety of the public, compliance, and the aesthetics of the wildlife area.

Winter Elk Feeding
• Conducts supplemental feeding activities for wintering wildlife on the Oak Creek Wildlife Area.
• Operate large trucks, skid steer loaders, and tractors in adverse weather conditions.
• Snow removal using vehicle mounted plows, tracked dozers, skid steer loaders, snow blowers, and shovels in adverse weather conditions.
• Assist to coordinate hay deliveries, stack hay and distribute hay with mechanized equipment and by hand off of large trucks for wintering elk.

Maintain Capital Facilities, Wildlife Area Infrastructure, Vehicles, And Equipment
• Maintain Wildlife Area buildings.
• Maintain Wildlife Area information kiosks.
• Maintain Wildlife Area signage.
• Maintain and oversee irrigation systems.
• Assist / oversee the implementation of capital improvement projects.
• Maintain roads, culverts, gates, fences, parking lots and other capital improvements.
• Maintain wildlife area vehicles, equipment, and maintenance records.
• Monitor / assess / ensure safety of Wildlife Area facilities and equipment.

Working Conditions

Work setting, including hazards: Primarily field work, which includes exposure to inclement weather including extreme heat or snow, difficult terrain including slippery rocks, steep banks and sticky mud, and water. Hazards include tripping / falling and other things consistent with working with small and large equipment in an outdoor setting or while working from boats or around water. Some work is performed in an office or shop setting. Work requires employee to walk, lift, bend, and stoop – sometimes on uneven terrain and while at times carrying up to 40 pounds of tools and/or equipment. Must be able to safely drive on primitive roads during all weather conditions. Use 4 x 4 trucks, utility and large frame tractors, construction equipment, ATVs, UTVs, and must be able to load and transport heavy equipment. This position may involve working in or near water, including tasks that require navigating, negotiating, and performing duties related to water environments.

Schedule: Four ten-hour shifts. Monday-Thursday, 6:00am-4:30pm from March 16 to December 15; 24/7, Sunday-Saturday, from December 16 to March 15. At times work may be off-schedule due to seasonal demands, emergencies, and time critical assignments. Willing to be punctual and perform in a dependable manner.

Travel: Available for non-scheduled workweek and travel up to 15% of time.

Tools and Equipment: Standard field tools such as shovels, spray equipment, chain saws, other power tools, farm machinery, backhoes, excavators, dozers, ATV’s, trucks, trailers, boats,. motor vehicles and heavy equipment including excavators, backhoes, tractors, agricultural implements, small power equipment (i.e., tillers, mowers, chainsaws, and grass / brush trimmers, etc.), shop equipment, ATVs and UTVs. This position will use GPS, mapping software, and a computer with Microsoft Office software.

Customer interaction: Communicate with the public during field work, via email, telephone, and at public meetings.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

This In-Training series provides mentoring and career development opportunities for candidates with limited experience.

Candidates will be hired as a Natural Resource Technician 2 or Natural Resource Technician 3, depending on skills and experience.

Advancement from Natural Resource Technician 2 to Natural Resource Technician 3 requires successful completion of the In-Training Plan, which will be provided upon hiring.

Required Qualifications For The Natural Resource Technician 2

Option 1: High school graduation or GED and two (2) years of experience as a Natural Resource Worker 2.

Option 2: Two (2) years of related professional equivalent experience, including:
• Working on a farm/ranch
• Conducting agricultural enhancement / farming activities
• Operating heavy equipment
• Conducting wildlife habitat enhancement activities
• General repairer

Option 3: Equivalent Education/Experience

Please Note: College coursework involving major study in biology, zoology, fisheries, wildlife, chemistry, natural sciences, or a closely allied field will substitute, year for year, for experience.

Certifications/Licenses: Valid Driver’s License.

Required Qualifications for the Natural Resource Technician 3 (Goal Class):

Option 1: Two (2) years of experience as a Natural Resource Technician 2, Forest Technician, Engineering Aide 1, Administrative Assistant 1 or higher class performing technical or paraprofessional duties relating to land use, transaction lease, or development.

Option 2: Three (3) years of experience as a general repairer or equivalent.
• Examples of a “general repairer” are working on a farm/ranch, conducting agricultural enhancement/farming activities, operating heavy equipment or conducting wildlife habitat enhancement activities

Option 3: Bachelor’s degree with major study in wildlife, agriculture, or other natural resource studies.

Option 4: An associate degree in natural resources and two (2) years of technical experience in wildlife, land management, or other natural resource field.

Please Note: College coursework involving major study in biology, zoology, fisheries, wildlife, chemistry, natural sciences, or a closely allied field will substitute, year for year, for experience.

Certifications/Licenses: Valid Driver’s License.

Special Requirements/Conditions Of Employment

Within 6 months of employment, the incumbent must receive the following trainings/certifications:
• ATV, UTV certification (agency will provide training)
• Maintain First Aid / CPR / AED Training Certification (agency will provide training)
• Hold or obtain a Washington State Public Operator Pesticide license

Note: This position does not currently require a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). However, if CDL duties become necessary, the agency will provide training and certification. In compliance with the 1991 Federal Omnibus Transportation Testing Act, employees will be subject to controlled substance and alcohol testing. CDL eligibility must be maintained throughout employment.

Preferred Qualifications

In addition to the required qualifications, our ideal applicant will possess one or more of the following:
• Experience in the use of agricultural practices and equipment.
• Experience planning and managing annual agricultural crop establishment.
• Experience in identifying Eastern Washington native plant species.

Knowledge Of
• Wildlife agricultural enhancement programs / farming practices.
• Wildlife habitat enhancement and restoration.
• Basics of carpentry, mechanical and facility repair.
• Small, large, and heavy equipment operation, maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting.
• Small engine tools such as pumps, chainsaws, and brush cutters.
• Computer software – Microsoft Office, Geographic Information System (GIS) and Global Positioning System (GPS).
• Managing projects.
• Managing workloads.
• Safety procedures.
• Critical thinking and the ability to make decisions based on the best available information.

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 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 RecruitmentTeam@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 diana.humes@dfw.wa.gov

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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

Which of the following best describes your experience as a general repairer or equivalent. (Examples of related experience include working on a farm/ranch, conducting agricultural enhancement/farming practices, operating heavy equipment, conducting wildlife habitat enhancement practices)?
• Less than two (2) years
• 2-3 years
• 3-4 years
• 4-5 years
• More than five (5) years
• No experience

05

Please BRIEFLY describe your experience in small and large equipment operation, trouble-shooting, repair and maintenance. (“See Resume” is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).

06

Which of the following best describes your experience as a Natural Resource Technician 2, Forest Technician, Engineering Aide 1or higher class performing technical or paraprofessional duties relating to land use, or development?
• Less than two (2) years
• More than two (2) years
• No experience

07

Please briefly describe your experience in controlling noxious weeds through integrated pest management. (“See Resume” is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).

08

Please BRIEFLY describe your professional experience as a Habitat Technician or related professional equivalent experience, including working on a farm/ranch, conducting agricultural enhancement/farming practices, operating heavy equipment, conducting wildlife habitat enhancement practices. (“See Resume” is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).

09

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

10

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

11

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