Aquatic Invasive Species Technician - Scientific Technician 2 - Non-Permanent - *03175-25

The Aquatic Invasive Species Technician role at the State of Washington involves conducting fieldwork to monitor Zebra and Quagga mussels, including data collection and environmental sampling across high-risk water bodies. This full-time, non-permanent position is based in Pasco, WA, requires both field and office work, and involves maintaining equipment. The appointment lasts for seven months, from June to December 2025.
Salary: $3,477.00 - $4,632.00 Monthly
Location : Franklin County - Pasco, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Non-Permanent
Job Number: 2025-03175
Department: Dept. of Fish and Wildlife
Opening Date: 05/02/2025
Closing Date: 5/11/2025 11:59 PM Pacific

Description
Title- Aquatic Invasive Species Technician

Classification- Scientific Technician 2

Job Status- Full-Time/Non-Permanent

Appointment Length- 7 Months- June 2, 2025 - December 31, 2025WDFW Program- FishProgram - Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Prevention UnitDuty Station- Pasco, Washington - Franklin County
• Standby- This position may be required to be on standby.
Learn more about being a member of Team WDFW!
Photo Caption: Intercepted Invasive Mussels - Photo Credit: WDFW
Join the Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Prevention team and conduct impactful fieldwork to protect state waters.
In this role you will perform early detection monitoring of Zebra and Quagga mussels, ensuring all data is accurately recorded.
Picture yourself surveying high risk bodies of water to collect samples and environmental DNA (eDNA) throughout Washington state.
What to Expect-

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Aquatic Invasive Species Technician will,
Conduct Early Detection Zebra and Quagga Mussel Monitoring:
• Survey high risk water bodies using multiple sampling methods including collecting horizontal and vertical water samples using plankton tows, monitoring artificial substrates, conducting visual shoreline surveys, collecting water quality measurements using hydrolab and calcium collection techniques, collecting substrate samples using a Petite Ponar grab, and collecting environmental DNA (eDNA) using a filter pump system.
• Follow Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) mussel monitoring protocols to collect, review, record, and upload field data.
• Identify and report potential AIS while working in the field conducting sampling.

Perform Office Work:
• Follow protocols to review and accurately record AIS data into databases.
• Organize, file, and summarize data.
• Maintain and update schedule and calendars, complete time sheets, complete order payment form submissions, and respond to emails in a timely manner.

Maintain Equipment:
• Maintain vehicle, watercraft, trailer, electronic tablet, laptop, smart phone, eDNA backpack water filtration system, and mobile water quality laboratory in a safe and working order.

Working Conditions:
Work Setting, including hazards:

Approximately 90% fieldwork and 10% office work. Work is conducted outdoors on water and land, including in inclement weather such as rain, heat and cold, poor air quality, wildfires, strong waves and currents.
May work independently in remote locations, day and night. Walk up to five (5) miles on uneven ground, occasionally relocate 75 pounds or pack 50 pounds, and handle chemicals safely and in accordance with labels. On rare occasions, may conduct euthanasia on animals during rapid response actions for detections of adult invasive mussels.
Safely transport and operate large equipment up to a 20-foot cargo trailer, flatbed trailer, winches, motor vehicles, and complex hot water trailered pressure washers. 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, 10 hours per day. Will be required to occasionally exceed 40 hours per week. May work outside of normal workweek during holidays, weekends, and may be required to respond on short notice to rapid response AIS emergencies.
• Standby:

This position may require standby. For this position, standby means the employee is responsible for remaining available by cell phone and within a two (2) hour driving distance to assist field staff with irregular emergent issues or to complete safety check-in and check-out processes during non-core business hours.
Standby may include full days (e.g. Saturday-Sunday) or intermittent standby times (e.g. 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm) several times per week.
Standby shifts will be scheduled in advance, unless there is an emergency, and will be divided equally with senior biologist, prioritizing a healthy work-life balance.
Travel Requirements: This position requires weekly statewide travel and overnight stays up to five (5) days at a time.
Tools and Equipment: Personal computers, laptops, smart phones, electronic tablets, complex mobile water quality laboratory, environmental DNA backpack water filtration system, and non-electronic biological and environmental sampling devices.
Customer Interactions: Regularly interact with the public while conducting fieldwork.
Qualifications:

Required Qualifications:
Option 1: Graduation from high school or GED, including one (1) year of high school science and two (2) years of experience as a Scientific Technician.
Option 2: Graduation from high school or GED, including one (1) year of high school science and two (2) years of laboratory or field experience as an assistant to a biologist, chemist, or zoologist.
Please note: College course work involving major study in biology, zoology, fisheries, chemistry, natural sciences, or closely allied field will substitute year-for-year for experience, provided the course work includes at least six (6) semester or nine (9) quarter hours of natural or environmental science classes.
Certifications/Licenses:

Valid Driver's License.
Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment:
• State Boater Education Card or equivalent must be obtained within one (1) month of hire.
• HSI Certified CPR/First Aid/AED certification must be obtained within one (1) month of hire.
• Successful completion of agency training and/or certification for assigned watercraft, stream surveying, and snorkeling is dependent on supervisory direction, position need, and training availability.

Preferred Qualifications:

In addition to the required qualifications, our ideal applicant will possess some or all the following:
Experience:
• Towing trailers/boats.
• Connecting and towing trailers up to 25 feet in length.
• With Microsoft Windows, computers, and other electronic devices, such as smart phones, electronic tablets, and laptops.
• And excellent safety record operating vehicles.
• Maintaining excellent public service and developing partnerships effectively through outreach and education.

Certifications:
• CPR/First Aid/AED certification.
• Watercraft Inspection Training (WIT) Level I/II certification.

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 - 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 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 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: 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 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

Other questions: If you have other questions regarding this position, please reach out to and reference job #2025-03175.

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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 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

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 as a Scientific Technician OR your laboratory or field experience as an assistant to a biologist, chemist, or zoologist.
• I do not have this experience.
• I have less than 2 years of this experience.
• I have 2 years or more of this experience.

05

Please briefly describe your experience as a Scientific Technician OR your laboratory or field experience as an assistant to a biologist, chemist, or zoologist. ("See Resume" is not a valid response. If you do not have this experience, put N/A).
06

Select the option(s) below that you have experience in. (Select ALL that apply).
• Connecting and towing trailers.
• Towing boats.
• None of the above.

07

Do you have experience with Microsoft Windows, smart phones, electronic tablets, computers, and laptops?
• Yes
• No

08

Select the option(s) below that you have current certification in. (Select ALL that apply).
• CPR/First Aid/ AED.
• Watercraft Inspection Training (WIT) Level I/II.
• None of the above.

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
• 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

10

Tell us more - kindly share which website, organization, person, or other source led you to this job posting.
11

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

Required Question