State of Washington
Stormwater Biodiversity Technician - Scientific Technician 2 - Non-Permanent - 2
State of Washington, Walla Walla, Washington, United States
Stormwater Biodiversity Technician - Scientific Technician 2 - Non-Permanent - 2026-00182
Join to apply for the Stormwater Biodiversity Technician - Scientific Technician 2 - Non-Permanent - 2026-00182 role at State of Washington.
Description Title: Stormwater Biodiversity Technician
Classification: Scientific Technician 2
Job Status: Full-Time/Non-Permanent
Appointment Length: 6.5 Months – February 15, 2026 – August 31, 2026
WDFW Program: Habitat Program – Science Division
Duty Station: Olympia, Washington – Thurston County
Learn more about being a member of Team WDFW! Photo Caption: Rough Skinned Newt – Photo Credit: WDFW.
Join WDFW and contribute to the conservation of Washington’s fish, wildlife, and ecosystems through pond surveys, in‑water and upland habitat assessments, and data collection.
This is an opportunity to partake in a monitoring project funded by the Stormwater Strategic Initial Lead (SSIL) targeted at evaluating and considering improvements to stormwater pond features to protect fish and wildlife from priority toxics in urban runoff.
In this role, you will assist in studying the impact of 6PPDQ (a chemical that prevents automotive tires from degrading) on amphibians in stormwater ponds and natural wetlands around the Puget Sound region; help understand which design and management conditions allow constructed stormwater ponds to function as habitat for native amphibians; and help establish environmentally relevant baseline 6PPDQ concentrations in stormwater ponds and downstream salmon‑bearing waterways across an urban gradient.
What to Expect Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Stormwater Biodiversity Technician will:
Conduct data collection and data management in support of fish, wildlife, and habitat research to evaluate how stormwater pond design and management promotes aquatic species abundance and diversity.
Participate in sampling programs designed to understand species richness, abundance, and survival in stormwater ponds and other wetlands.
Conduct fish, wildlife, and habitat monitoring and research under general supervision.
Install and maintain sampling equipment and delineate sample units.
Use established procedures to characterize wetlands and wetland habitats.
Monitor water quality, including water temperature and hydroperiod.
Conduct biological surveys, including for amphibians and fish (diversity, demographics, condition, genetic tissue sample), and their habitats.
Enter, quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC), and summarize data:
Ensure accurate and complete data collection.
Ensure regular and complete download of data into databases.
Develop summaries of data collection progress.
Maintain and organize field equipment and supplies:
Safely operate WDFW equipment and supplies following established policies.
Perform routine maintenance and ensure equipment is functioning reliably and safely.
Working Conditions Work is primarily performed in the field, with some office work. Up to 90% of work will occur in the field or preparing to go in the field during the focal field season.
Field work includes navigating and hiking off‑trail through vegetation that may be extremely dense, over steep slopes, along and within wetlands, throughout managed landscapes on foot, over downed trees and wood, and up streams that may be slippery. Navigating along and within streams and ponds and steep terrain is required.
Frequently carry a moderately heavy pack (typically weighing under 40 pounds) that includes sampling equipment (such as hand net, iPad, field notebook, instream temperature sensors, measuring tape) and personal supplies (first aid kit, water, lunch, snacks, rain gear), and at times a field laptop. Infrequently carry by hand 5‑gallon buckets, dip nets, and rebar.
Navigate and drive on state and county roads throughout western Washington. This position may involve working in or near water, including tasks that require navigating, negotiating, and performing duties related to water environments.
Schedule: This position is full‑time, Monday–Thursday, 10 hours per day, working 40 hours per week. The standard work schedule includes the potential for occasional evening or weekend work as needed. Schedules may vary based on business needs, time of year, and/or weather conditions.
Travel Requirements: Field work will be a mixture of daily trips to field sites located within driving distance of the NRB and overnight lodging near study sites.
Tools and Equipment: Vehicles (4WD trucks and SUVs), field and safety equipment, iPads and other data collection devices, monitors/sensors, and a laptop.
Customer Interactions: Interact with landowners and academic/local jurisdiction project partners. Maintain positive and productive working relationships with project partners and neighbors adjacent to study sites, and provide proof of access permits if requested.
Qualifications Required Qualifications
Graduation from high school or GED, including one (1) year of high school science.
AND Two (2) years of experience as a Scientific Technician 1.
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 coursework involving major study in biology, zoology, fisheries, chemistry, natural sciences, or closely allied field will substitute, year‑for‑year, for experience, provided the coursework includes at least six (6) semester or nine (9) quarter hours of natural science classes.
Certifications/Licenses Valid Driver’s License.
Preferred Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (such as biology, ecology, or wildlife biology).
Two (2) years of professional experience conducting field research or monitoring.
One (1) year or more of experience in monitoring water quality.
One (1) year or more of experience in identifying western Washington amphibians across life stages.
One (1) year or more of experience in working in urban settings, particularly urban ponds and wetlands.
Experience with Microsoft Office Suite (such as Word, Excel, and Outlook).
Experience collecting GIS information in Field Maps and Survey123.
Experience creating maps of study sites and equipment in ArcGIS Online and/or ArcPRO.
Understanding of biological research principles, standard laboratory and field methods, fish, wildlife, and aquatic ecology.
Ability to collect data following established protocols and make sound independent field decisions.
Ability to collaborate with others to identify and resolve complex or sensitive issues.
Ability to convey information and ideas orally and in writing to project partners and team members.
Establish and maintain positive, respectful, and productive working relationships with coworkers, collaborators, and local jurisdictions.
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 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 support@neogov.com.
Other questions If you have other questions regarding this position, please reach out to danielle.gustafson@dfw.wa.gov and reference job #2026-00182.
Follow Us On Social Media LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram
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.
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.
Notes: 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.
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 hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full‑time employment.
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.
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, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) 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
Visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 01‑07‑2026 Applicant Screening
Are you currently an employee of the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife? Yes / No
Do you have a valid driver's license? Yes / No
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.
What is your major area of study?
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.
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.
Do you have two (2) or more years of professional experience conducting field research or monitoring? Yes / No
Select the option(s) below that you have one (1) year or more of experience in. (Select all that apply):
Monitoring water quality.
Identifying western Washington amphibians across life stages.
Working in urban settings, particularly urban ponds and wetlands.
None of the above.
Briefly describe your experience monitoring water quality, emphasizing your experience in urban ponds and wetlands, if applicable.
Briefly describe your experience identifying western Washington amphibians across life stages.
Select the option(s) below that you have experience in. (Select all that apply):
Field Maps.
Survey123.
Microsoft Office Suite (such as Word, Excel, and Outlook).
ArcGIS Online and/or ArcPro.
None of the above.
Do you have one (1) year or more of experience conducting laboratory and field work for fish, wildlife, and/or aquatic ecology? Yes / No
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
Hydraulic Institute
Indeed.com
Job Board
Job Fair
LinkedIn
Mount Hood Community College (MHCC)
Newspaper
Other
Other State Agency
Other Website
Professional Association
Society of American Foresters (SAF)
Texas A&M
University Job Board
UW College of the Environment
WDFW Employee
WDFW Recruiter
WDFW Website
Word of Mouth
WorkSource
X (formerly Twitter)
Tell us more – kindly share which website, organization, person, or other source led you to this job posting.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Description Title: Stormwater Biodiversity Technician
Classification: Scientific Technician 2
Job Status: Full-Time/Non-Permanent
Appointment Length: 6.5 Months – February 15, 2026 – August 31, 2026
WDFW Program: Habitat Program – Science Division
Duty Station: Olympia, Washington – Thurston County
Learn more about being a member of Team WDFW! Photo Caption: Rough Skinned Newt – Photo Credit: WDFW.
Join WDFW and contribute to the conservation of Washington’s fish, wildlife, and ecosystems through pond surveys, in‑water and upland habitat assessments, and data collection.
This is an opportunity to partake in a monitoring project funded by the Stormwater Strategic Initial Lead (SSIL) targeted at evaluating and considering improvements to stormwater pond features to protect fish and wildlife from priority toxics in urban runoff.
In this role, you will assist in studying the impact of 6PPDQ (a chemical that prevents automotive tires from degrading) on amphibians in stormwater ponds and natural wetlands around the Puget Sound region; help understand which design and management conditions allow constructed stormwater ponds to function as habitat for native amphibians; and help establish environmentally relevant baseline 6PPDQ concentrations in stormwater ponds and downstream salmon‑bearing waterways across an urban gradient.
What to Expect Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Stormwater Biodiversity Technician will:
Conduct data collection and data management in support of fish, wildlife, and habitat research to evaluate how stormwater pond design and management promotes aquatic species abundance and diversity.
Participate in sampling programs designed to understand species richness, abundance, and survival in stormwater ponds and other wetlands.
Conduct fish, wildlife, and habitat monitoring and research under general supervision.
Install and maintain sampling equipment and delineate sample units.
Use established procedures to characterize wetlands and wetland habitats.
Monitor water quality, including water temperature and hydroperiod.
Conduct biological surveys, including for amphibians and fish (diversity, demographics, condition, genetic tissue sample), and their habitats.
Enter, quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC), and summarize data:
Ensure accurate and complete data collection.
Ensure regular and complete download of data into databases.
Develop summaries of data collection progress.
Maintain and organize field equipment and supplies:
Safely operate WDFW equipment and supplies following established policies.
Perform routine maintenance and ensure equipment is functioning reliably and safely.
Working Conditions Work is primarily performed in the field, with some office work. Up to 90% of work will occur in the field or preparing to go in the field during the focal field season.
Field work includes navigating and hiking off‑trail through vegetation that may be extremely dense, over steep slopes, along and within wetlands, throughout managed landscapes on foot, over downed trees and wood, and up streams that may be slippery. Navigating along and within streams and ponds and steep terrain is required.
Frequently carry a moderately heavy pack (typically weighing under 40 pounds) that includes sampling equipment (such as hand net, iPad, field notebook, instream temperature sensors, measuring tape) and personal supplies (first aid kit, water, lunch, snacks, rain gear), and at times a field laptop. Infrequently carry by hand 5‑gallon buckets, dip nets, and rebar.
Navigate and drive on state and county roads throughout western Washington. This position may involve working in or near water, including tasks that require navigating, negotiating, and performing duties related to water environments.
Schedule: This position is full‑time, Monday–Thursday, 10 hours per day, working 40 hours per week. The standard work schedule includes the potential for occasional evening or weekend work as needed. Schedules may vary based on business needs, time of year, and/or weather conditions.
Travel Requirements: Field work will be a mixture of daily trips to field sites located within driving distance of the NRB and overnight lodging near study sites.
Tools and Equipment: Vehicles (4WD trucks and SUVs), field and safety equipment, iPads and other data collection devices, monitors/sensors, and a laptop.
Customer Interactions: Interact with landowners and academic/local jurisdiction project partners. Maintain positive and productive working relationships with project partners and neighbors adjacent to study sites, and provide proof of access permits if requested.
Qualifications Required Qualifications
Graduation from high school or GED, including one (1) year of high school science.
AND Two (2) years of experience as a Scientific Technician 1.
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 coursework involving major study in biology, zoology, fisheries, chemistry, natural sciences, or closely allied field will substitute, year‑for‑year, for experience, provided the coursework includes at least six (6) semester or nine (9) quarter hours of natural science classes.
Certifications/Licenses Valid Driver’s License.
Preferred Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (such as biology, ecology, or wildlife biology).
Two (2) years of professional experience conducting field research or monitoring.
One (1) year or more of experience in monitoring water quality.
One (1) year or more of experience in identifying western Washington amphibians across life stages.
One (1) year or more of experience in working in urban settings, particularly urban ponds and wetlands.
Experience with Microsoft Office Suite (such as Word, Excel, and Outlook).
Experience collecting GIS information in Field Maps and Survey123.
Experience creating maps of study sites and equipment in ArcGIS Online and/or ArcPRO.
Understanding of biological research principles, standard laboratory and field methods, fish, wildlife, and aquatic ecology.
Ability to collect data following established protocols and make sound independent field decisions.
Ability to collaborate with others to identify and resolve complex or sensitive issues.
Ability to convey information and ideas orally and in writing to project partners and team members.
Establish and maintain positive, respectful, and productive working relationships with coworkers, collaborators, and local jurisdictions.
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 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 support@neogov.com.
Other questions If you have other questions regarding this position, please reach out to danielle.gustafson@dfw.wa.gov and reference job #2026-00182.
Follow Us On Social Media LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram
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.
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.
Notes: 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.
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 hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full‑time employment.
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.
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, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) 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
Visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 01‑07‑2026 Applicant Screening
Are you currently an employee of the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife? Yes / No
Do you have a valid driver's license? Yes / No
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.
What is your major area of study?
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.
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.
Do you have two (2) or more years of professional experience conducting field research or monitoring? Yes / No
Select the option(s) below that you have one (1) year or more of experience in. (Select all that apply):
Monitoring water quality.
Identifying western Washington amphibians across life stages.
Working in urban settings, particularly urban ponds and wetlands.
None of the above.
Briefly describe your experience monitoring water quality, emphasizing your experience in urban ponds and wetlands, if applicable.
Briefly describe your experience identifying western Washington amphibians across life stages.
Select the option(s) below that you have experience in. (Select all that apply):
Field Maps.
Survey123.
Microsoft Office Suite (such as Word, Excel, and Outlook).
ArcGIS Online and/or ArcPro.
None of the above.
Do you have one (1) year or more of experience conducting laboratory and field work for fish, wildlife, and/or aquatic ecology? Yes / No
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
Four W’s Fishing Team, LLC – Willard Franklin III, LinkedIn
Handshake
Hiring Event/Workshop
Hydraulic Institute
Indeed.com
Job Board
Job Fair
Mount Hood Community College (MHCC)
Newspaper
Other
Other State Agency
Other Website
Professional Association
Society of American Foresters (SAF)
Texas A&M
University Job Board
UW College of the Environment
WDFW Employee
WDFW Recruiter
WDFW Website
Word of Mouth
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