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Salary- DOE

The Habitat Restoration Specialist serves under the Water Resources Department to
help lead the team’s efforts to implement habitat restoration projects and develop a long-
term pipeline of future projects both large and small. The position will work closely with the
Spokane area Salmon Recovery Lead Entity Work Group and assist in ushering in an
exciting new era of our work to restore habitat that is vital to the health and wellbeing
of fish and wildlife, as well as the people of Spokane County.

This position will help realize the vision for our Habitat Program by working with a
broad range of local partners, including but not limited to local Tribes, divisions of
Spokane County government, state agencies, non-profits, and local landowners. The
Habitat Restoration Specialist will have a profound impact on our programming, our
organization, and most importantly, our community.

As a Staff Specialist, you will be responsible for collaborating with multi-disciplinary
teams, working on public and private-sector projects across Spokane County.
Typical project work involves fish passage, stream and river restoration, wetland
delineation/identification, and project planning.

All employees must act as liaisons between SCD and government agencies, the
public, and other private partners and organizations. Good team building and
interpersonal skills are required.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
 Gather and analyze publicly available maps and databases of geology, LiDAR,
soils, streams, fish use, passage barriers, wetlands, floodplains/frequently
flooded areas and other documented sensitive and priority habitats and
priority/listed species at the project site and in the project vicinity.
 Conduct freshwater OHWM delineations, habitat surveys, fish passage surveys,
and assist with geomorphic assessments.
 Assist in developing reports documenting instream and riparian habitat including
stream geomorphology.
Spokane Conservation District
Position Description for
Habitat Restoration Specialist

 Assist in developing plans and reports related to instream fish habitat and
passage improvements, including culvert or bridge replacements, bank or levee
repair, utility crossings, channel and riparian habitat enhancement, floodplain
connectivity improvements, and stormwater upgrades.
 Conduct wetland delineations and prepare delineation reports in accordance with
USACE manuals.
 Use Global Positioning System (GPS) technology to document the location of
critical features identified at field sites.
 Rate wetlands using the WA State Department of Ecology Wetland Rating
Systems and prepare rating exhibits using GIS.
 Assist in preparation of critical areas reports, impacts assessments, and
mitigation plans.
 Complete permit applications and supporting documentation (e.g., SEPA/NEPA,
Shoreline, JARPA, HPA).
 Develop cost estimates, plan future needs; develop budget requests or revisions;
prepare, write, and administer grant applications related to the programs.
 Experience in monitoring and collecting field data, and in using GIS and GPS.
Must be willing and physically able to assist with field data collection and
restoration/revegetation of riparian areas.
 Demonstrated organizational skills and the ability to multi-task effectively.
 Must be able to hike for extended periods, carry equipment over rough terrain, at
times in inclement weather conditions.
 Excellent organization and communication skills (both written and verbal).
 Demonstrated skills in public relations, negotiation, coordination and diplomacy.
 Proficient computer skills including Microsoft Office Software: Microsoft Word,
Excel, Publisher, PowerPoint, Access.
 Serve as a resource specialist to staff and others on habitat issues.
Minimum Qualifications
 BS or BA in Biology, Environmental Science, Watershed Science or equivalent.
 Ability to perform wide range of physical activities and field work.
 Ability to consistently meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced work environment.
 Strong verbal and written communication and problem-solving skills.
 Valid driver’s license.
 Advanced degree and/or 3 years related professional experience.
Preferred Qualifications
 Coursework or degrees pertaining to fisheries science.
 Knowledge/experience in research design, statistics and/or biometrics
 Proficiency with ArcGIS software and GPS technology.
 Knowledge and experience with life history strategies, habitat requirements, and
field identification of fish species found in Washington State, particularly resident
freshwater, and anadromous species.
 Experience with ecology and dynamics of freshwater systems.