Fishery Sampler – Scientific Technician

The Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife is hiring five Fishery Samplers for a non-permanent, full-time role from June 2 to October 15, 2025. Responsibilities include conducting field data collection, electrofishing, PIT tagging, and snorkeling surveys to monitor salmonid populations in the Yakima River Basin. Required qualifications include a high school diploma and relevant experience. The position involves physical demands and occasional travel.
Salary: $3,477–$4,632 per month

Position Summary:

The Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife (WDFW) is hiring five Fishery Samplers for a 4.5-month appointment (June 2–October 15, 2025) to support fishery conservation and population monitoring in the Yakima River Basin.

This full-time, non-permanent role involves electrofishing, PIT tagging, snorkeling surveys, and habitat data collection to assess salmonid populations.

Key Responsibilities:
• Conduct Field Data Collection (Monitoring & Evaluation, Viable Salmonid Population Studies):
• Assist with mark-recapture population estimates via electrofishing (backpack & drift boat).
• Capture Rainbow Trout, Chinook, and Coho Salmon for PIT tagging.
• Collect biological data including PIT tag scans, fin clips, scales, lengths, and weights.
• Identify all fish species in the Yakima Basin and document habitat measurements.
• Support Chinook fry sampling for growth comparisons.
• Snorkeling & Raft-Based Surveys:
• Conduct snorkeling surveys to identify, count, and collect fish in Yakima River tributaries.
• Row rafts to study sites, collect habitat data, and document fish behavior.
• Perform specialized redd surveys, counting precocious males on Spring Chinook redds.

Working Conditions:
• Physical Demands: Carry 30–40 lbs of gear, traverse wet/slippery terrain, and snorkel in cold flowing water.
• Schedule: Monday–Thursday (10-hour shifts, 7:00 A.M.–5:30 P.M.), with occasional night/weekend fieldwork.
• Travel: Some out-of-town assignments required.
• Equipment Used: Electrofishing gear, rafts, basic field tools, GPS units.

Required Qualifications:
• High school diploma or GED with:
• Two years of experience as a Scientific Technician OR
• Two years of lab/field assistant experience in biology, fisheries, zoology, or chemistry.
• Valid driver’s license.

Preferred Qualifications:
• Background in fish science and knowledge of Yakima River Basin fisheries.
• Experience with:
• Rowing rafts & drift boats.
• Electrofishing, PIT tagging, and snorkeling.
• ESA-listed species sampling and handling.
• Collecting and recording accurate biological data.
• Communicating research objectives to landowners and the public.

Certifications & Special Requirements:
• Swift Water & Snorkeling Training (completed within one month of hire).
• First Aid/CPR Certification (within first two weeks of employment).

Application Instructions:
• Apply via https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/washington/jobs/4904006/fishery-sampler-scientific-technician-2-non-permanent-five-openings-0265.
• Submit:
• Resume outlining relevant experience.
• Cover Letter detailing your interest and qualifications.
• Three professional references with contact information.
• Application Deadline: April 30, 2025
• Start Date: After June 2, 2025

Additional Information:

WDFW is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Veterans and military spouses are eligible for preference.

Contact Information:

Name: Elizabeth Bullard

Email: elizabeth.bullard@dfw.wa.gov