2 month FULL-TIME NON-PERMANENT

Fish and Wildlife Biologist 2

Fish Program – Puget Sound Sampling Unit

Natural Resource Building 

Olympia, WA

Anticipated state date is July 1, 2021

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife has some of the most talented people in the natural resource field.  We celebrate and value diversity, appreciating that a workforce composed of those from different backgrounds and experiences creates an inclusive environment, strengthens positive relationships with the local community, and brings new perspectives and approaches to fulfilling the agency’s mission.

The best suited candidate has strong work ethic, the ability to take initiative, work independently, and has excellent inter-personal communication and relationship skills.

This position supervises all field supervisors in Puget Sound Sampling Unit (PSSU) who oversee the collection of recreational and commercial data in Puget Sound. This position serves as the hiring coordinator for all aspects of the PSSU. Coordination includes planning biennial and seasonal staffing levels with the Unit Manager. Completes or facilitates the completion of all human resources documentation through the WDFW HR Service Portal in JIRA. This position oversees the supervision of all field work conducted by the unit, directly supervising the unit’s four Scientific Technician 4 positions to ensure the completion of all recreational and commercial fisheries sampling. This position works with the unit’s biologist, data managers and Sampler Support staff to ensure completeness of all recreational and commercial fisheries catch and effort information. This data is used for the assessment of biological information by fisheries stock, subsequent achievement of spawning escapements, court-mandated and agreed to fisheries allocations. This position serves as the supervisor for all field supervision and leadership in a large work unit located geographically throughout Puget Sound under limited supervision.

Directly supervise four Scientific Technician 4 field supervisors. Oversee all permanent and non-permanent staff under the field supervisors’ supervision.
Tasks include: 

• Coordinate and assist the field supervisors with the hiring, training and evaluation of all sampling staff throughout the unit, which include South Sound, the Peninsula, North Sound and Central Sound.
• Guide and assist the four field supervisors with all technical sampling related problems and issues.
• Assist field supervisors with coordinating seasonal and weekly sampling schedules if needed. Coordinate work within and between different areas of the unit as needed.
• Guide and assist field supervisors with all personnel issues in a timely and professional manner.  Provide the Puget Sound Sampling Unit Manager (supervisor, or hirer up the chain of command if their supervisor is not available), and Human Resources (HR) with timely personnel updates.
• Seek assistance and guidance from supervisor, chain of command and/or HR in a timely manner as needed.
• Maintain confidentiality with all personnel information and issues.
• Maintain regular, often daily, effective and tactful communication with field supervisors and supervisor.  Meet by phone or MS TEAMs at least weekly with direct reports and supervisor. Meet with direct reports in person at remote field locations based on COVID and other safety protocols.
• Assist field supervisors with new employee on-boarding process. Ensure access to all relevant programs and systems for new employees including but not limited to iForms, the intranet (SharePoint) site, MS TEAMs, TotalTime, and MS Outlook email or its replacement.
• Review and approve field supervisor’s timesheets in TotalTime, travel vouchers in TEMS, p-card logs, Order Payment Forms, A-19s and other purchasing documents.
• Provide field supervisors with the resources, opportunities, and trainings they need to continue to develop their supervisory and leadership skills.
• Ensure field supervisors and staff follow all safety protocols, including those related to COVID-19.  Coordinate with sampler support staff on PPE and other supplies.

Serve as the sampling unit’s primary coordinator for Human Resource (HR) activities and as the liaison between the sampling unit supervisors and staff and HR.
Tasks include: 

• Prepare, process and track in a spreadsheet or database all personnel and position actions in coordination with field supervisors and Sampler Support staff.
• Ensure the completion of all unit HR documents (recruitments, HR Actions, position descriptions). Coordinate and meet hiring action timelines based on scheduled fisheries to ensure adequate staffing levels.
• Give guidance and direction to supervisors and sampler support staff on assisting with on-line HR processes through the HR Service Portal.
• Review HR documents, including position descriptions, PDP expectations and evaluations, for content and accuracy and revise as necessary.
• Maintain accurate data on all positions in the unit in a spreadsheet or database with the assistance of Sampler Support staff and supervisor.
• Monitor the timeline, process and progression for obtaining new hires, publishing recruitments announcements, non-permanent staff and Career Seasonal start and end of appointments, separations, promotions and reallocations.
• Ensure the accuracy of the unit’s organizational chart in unit files, with HR, and the agencies on-line organizational charts to the extent possible.
• Provide field supervisors and staff with information on payroll policies, regulations, processes, forms, timelines and changes as needed. Refer field supervisors and staff to the appropriate WDFW staff member depending on the topic.
• Work professionally, effectively and efficiently with HR Recruitment and HR Fish Program staff.
• Inform the Puget Sound Sampling Unit Manager of any changes to hiring needs and other HR related issues in a timely manner.

Edit, review, interpret and manage fisheries data and sampling unit documents 
Tasks include: 

• Ensure the editing, reviewing and quality control of all recreational fisheries data is completed by field supervisors and staff, in coordination with PSSU data managers and the unit manager (supervisor).
• Review and interpret the unit’s data in relations to fisheries regulations. Inform staff and managers of any fish harvest anomalies or data errors.
• Assist the Sampler Support staff, field supervisors and staff in keeping track of all electronic data collection devices.
• Create and review fisheries sampling protocols and procedures, assess sampling goals and coordinate sampling with the unit staff and tribal biologists as needed.
• Following independent evaluation of fisheries data, assist unit data managers in developing procedures based on current fisheries activities to fulfill program sampling needs.
• Assist with fishery studies in Puget Sound to fulfill the sampling goals and objectives. Assist data managers with the planning and design of special projects.

• Create, review and edit unit documents, spreadsheets and reports when requested.

Coordinate and conduct fisheries sampling and training
Tasks include: 

• Coordinate fishery sampling activities with supervisor, unit biologist, data managers, field supervisors and sampling staff and others outside the unit to ensure the collection of all recreational and commercial fisheries sampling data (tribal and non-tribal) for Puget Sound.
• In coordination with field supervisors, provide on-site hands on training for sampling staff during recreational sampling when needed to assure consistency and standardization in data collection.
• Work with field supervisors to develop comprehensive training objectives, strategies and techniques to communicate proper methods of sampling and data recording.
• Assist unit staff in implementing training strategies at WDFW meetings, conduct follow-up training workshops and on the job sampler training in the field at sampling sites throughout Puget Sound as needed.
• Evaluate sampler’s sampling procedures, sampling design, equipment set up and use, data collection techniques and completion of electronic data forms in the field as needed.
• Communicate with unit manager and data mangers on quality control and data related concerns.
• Recommend improvements to electronic data form design, training procedures and sampling logistics to project manager and unit biologist and data managers.
• Assist the unit with salmon and marine fish sampling activities as needed.

Other duties as assigned

• Provide excellent customer service to sampling supervisors and staff.
• Conduct aerial flight surveys of angler boat counts on both weekdays and weekend days.
• Assist in the development of supervisor and all unit staff meeting agendas.
• Attend supervisor and all unit staff meetings and help facilitate staff meetings when needed.
• Attend North of Falcon public meetings as time allows.

• Other duties as assigned.

WORKING CONDITIONS: 
Work Setting, including hazards:   

• Position works the majority (95%) of the time in an office environment.
• Work may also be conducted onboard boats, in airplanes, and at boat ramps in inclement weather.
• Subject to repetitive movements of hands, finger manipulations, keyboarding, long periods of sitting and standing, squatting, kneeling, walking, climbing in and out of boats, up and down ladders and stairs, long periods aboard boats without shelter, sampling salmon in a boat, carrying, lifting up to 40 lbs., working and standing in confined spaces, fish blood and slime, slippery surfaces, biting and stinging insects, and dust.
• Employee works on slippery docks close to marine waters and is required to properly wear a PFD at all time on or near water.
• May encounter hostility or verbal threats from members of the public.
• May encounter danger from vehicles and vessels during boat launches.
• Works with knives to remove fish snouts or heads, and frequent bend, kneel, climb, and lift when needed.

Schedule:   

• Generally, Monday-Friday, 8am to 5pm, 40 hours per week, with regular weekend work for flights, field supervision and sampling, and occasional evening work.
• Weekend and evening work occasionally required.

Travel Requirements: 

• Puget Sound, occasional overnight travel.

 Tools and Equipment: 

• Electronic sampling equipment, weighing scales, cell phones, computers, knives, PFD, rubber boots, rain gear, use of state vehicles and possibly vessels.

 Customer Interactions:

• Interacts with all PSSU staff, treaty tribes, biologists, technicians, HR, Business Services, Financial Services, Information Technology, Capital Asset Management, Fish Program administrative staff and managers, and the public.

License:

• A valid unrestricted driver’s license

Required Qualifications:

AND

 Note: A Master’s degree in the applicable science will substitute for one year of the required experience.

 Note: A Ph.D. in the applicable science will substitute for two years of the required experience.

•  A minimum of two years supervisory experience.

• Weekend and evening work occasionally required.

 Preferred/Desired Qualifications:

Knowledge of:  basic methods of problem solving, research methods, logic and grammar; the Agency’s purposes, objectives and activities, methods and practices of fish and wildlife habitat management techniques and environmental regulations; principles and procedures of fish, wildlife or habitat biological research; principles and procedures of biological research, and fish management; standard laboratory and field methods and statistical data processing relating to fisheries work; fish species, their habits and life histories; and fishing regulations; exceptional supervisory skills are essential to this position.

Ability to: reason logically, draw valid conclusions and make appropriate recommendations; gather and analyze data; write and speak clearly and effectively; synthesize research findings and formulate fish management recommendations; effectively coordinate, lead, and supervise staff; perform a variety of outdoor work in inclement weather; organize and schedule fish research or management studies; apply research and statistical methods and techniques to a project or program; synthesize research findings and formulate fish management recommendations; gain cooperation of interested groups on Department fish management programs; analyze environmental information; participate in conferences and job interviews; establish and maintain effective working relationships; prepare written reports and make oral presentations when needed; interpret environmental regulations and related laws.

 Computer software skills using Microsoft Office products (MS Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint and TEAMs).

Knowledge of WDFW administrative, human resources, and payroll procedures and policies.

Ability to identify all salmon, crab and shrimp species, as well as common marine fish species found in Puget Sound.

Familiarity with salmon life history, Puget Sound sport fishing regulations and commercial and sport fishing methods and gear.

Conduct aerial surveys if already trained.

Please note: Failure to follow the instructions below may lead to disqualification.

In order to successfully apply for this position you MUST complete your profile at www.careers.wa.gov and attach the following to your profile before completing the online application:

• A cover letter describing how you meet the qualifications of this position (Generic cover letter will not be accepted).
• A current resume. 
• Three professional references. 

IMPORTANT NOTE: 

The Department of Fish and Wildlife’s priority during the Covid-19 health crisis is to keep our staff, candidates, and the public safe.  We are hiring and encourage you to apply to open positions.  Many of our staff are currently working from home; we have transitioned to a virtual recruitment process, to include web-based interviews.

JOIN THE WDFW TEAM:

Learn about our agency and the perks of working for WDFW!

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife has some of the most talented people in the natural resource field.  We celebrate and value diversity, appreciating that a workforce composed of those from different backgrounds and experiences creates an inclusive environment, strengthens positive relationships with the local community, and brings new perspectives and approaches to fulfilling the agency’s mission. We value demonstrated skill in living WDFW values of professionalism, accountability, empathy, integrity, service, and respect.

WDFW employees may be eligible for the following:

Medical/Dental/Vision for employee & dependent(s), Public Employees Retirement System (PERS),   Vacation, Sick, and other Leave, 11 Paid Holidays per year, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, Tuition Waiver,   Long Term Disability & Life Insurance, Deferred Compensation Programs, Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP),  Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA), Employee Assistance Program, Commute Trip Reduction Incentives (Download PDF reader), Combined Fund Drive, SmartHealth.

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.

 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Employer

VETERAN PREFERENCE NOTICE: 

To take advantage of veteran preference, please do the following:

• Subject line should include recruitment number, position and Vet (for example: #10155 Biologist 1 – Veteran)
• Include your name as it appears on your application in careers.wa.gov

MILITARY SPOUSE PREFERENCE NOTICE: 

To take advantage of military spouse preference, please do the following:

• Notify us of your military spouse status by email at RecruitmentTeam@dfw.wa.gov. 
• Subject line should include recruitment number, position and MS (for example: #10155 Biologist 1 – MS)
• Include your name as it appears on your application in careers.wa.gov

Note: Please blackout any PII (personally identifiable information) data such as social security numbers. For further information, please contact us at RecruitmentTeam@dfw.wa.gov.

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.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status and are encouraged to apply. 

 Persons needing accommodation in the application process or this announcement in an alternative format may call (360) 902-2276 or the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) at (800) 833-6388.

*(Images shown are Pre-COVID, WDFW Staff follow current COVID Safety Protocol including the use of face masks)

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.

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