Salary: $19.55 – $26.10 Hourly
Location: Thurston County – Olympia, WA
Job Type: Internship
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Job Number: 23DOT-HQ-05188i
Closing: 3/16/2023 11:59 PM Pacific

The Opportunity
WSDOT’s Environmental Services Office (ESO) is currently seeking to fill a Habitat Connectivity Intern located in Olympia, WA. This unique opportunity will support WSDOT Habitat Connectivity work, maintaining a network of motion-triggered wildlife cameras at roadside locations and wildlife crossing structures along the state highway system. The appointed intern will process data from cameras and complete analyses that describe the seasonal and temporal relationships of wildlife and highways. The Transportation Planning Technician 1 internship will provide the opportunity to gain valuable experience in the practical application of road ecology and habitat connectivity principles, environmental science, planning, data science/data analysis, in an on-the-job environment.

What to Expect
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Habitat Connectivity Intern may:

  • Process and analyze wildlife camera data, reviewing thousands of images weekly, identifying wildlife species and entering this and other info into an Excel database.
  • Perform site visits to camera monitoring locations across the state to service equipment and collect data. 
  • Install, program, and remove wildlife cameras.
  • Drive long distances in a state vehicle throughout all seasons.
  • Review and approve carcass removal and salvage reports pertaining to wildlife-vehicle collisions using GIS.
  • Assist with and learn about Endangered Species Act Permitting in the Environmental Services Office.
  • Participate in meetings, conferences, and other events that pertain to habitat connectivity. 
  • Prepare and give presentations on assigned work, create informational posters for other WSDOT departments and divisions.

Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity, the following are required:

  • At least one (1) college level course in statistics.
  • Knowledge of Pacific Northwest wildlife species, their ecology, life history and habitat utilization.
  • Ability to meticulously process large volumes of information to produce data.
  • Ability to analyze data, derive basic statistics and present results clearly in tables and text.
  • Ability to work independently with strong problem-solving skills based on dependability and accountability.
  • Interest in developing geographic information systems (GIS) skills.
  • Ability to hike over rough and uneven terrain carrying up to 40 lbs.
  • Willingness to work in various weather conditions including snow and rain.
  • Valid driver’s license with the ability to safely drive long distances in varied locations and weather types.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

  • Experience using wildlife cameras to document animal activity.
  • Experience using GIS.
  • Strong writing skills. 

How to Apply
Applications for this recruitment will be accepted electronically. Your relevant experience may be evaluated to determine salary. Therefore, it is very important that the “Work Experience” portion of the application be completed in as much detail as possible. Include relevant experience gained through formal professional employment and volunteer or unpaid experience. 
In order to be considered for this opportunity, please include the following with your online application: 

  • An attached Resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date.
  • An attached Cover Letter that further explains your qualifications and indicates why you believe you are a viable candidate for this role.
  • Contact details for a minimum three (3) individuals who can attest to your work or volunteer performance, technical skills, and job-related competencies. This information can be entered in the “References” section of the online application; does not require an additional attachment. 

To Apply: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/washington/jobs/3942330/habitat-connectivity-intern-tpt1

Important Notes 

  • This is a part time non-permanent internship, expected to last approximately 24 months in duration. This position will work a minimum of 20 hours per week. 
  • In addition to base salary, employees may be entitled to other forms of compensation depending on the type, duties, or location of the position. For union-represented positions, more information on other forms of compensation can be found in the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreements. Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in Chapter 357-28 of the Washington Administrative Code.
  • This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options but will require some field work.
  • Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 357-16-197 mandates that all employees who work for executive cabinet agencies (which includes the Department of Transportation) must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Compliance with this mandate is a condition of employment with WSDOT. Exemption may be granted for religious or medical purposes; however, accommodations will be subject to approval based on the essential functions required of the position.  
  • WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system. For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov.

About WSDOT
Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is the steward of an integrated, multimodal transportation system that helps to ensure people and goods move safely and efficiently throughout the state. In addition to building, maintaining, and operating the state highway system, WSDOT operates the largest ferry system in the nation, manages the world’s longest floating bridge, and recently completed the world’s widest tunneling project. 
Why WSDOT 

  • Work-Life Balance – We are committed to ensure that our staff experience the reward of public service, while also sustaining a routine that suits each individuals’ lifestyle. As such, there are a number of flexible schedule options available, including occasional telework for eligible positions.  
  • Paid Leave – In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees earn a minimum 14 paid vacation days per year!
  • Tuition Assistance – Permanent employees have several options for assistance with education expenses, including tuition reimbursement programs, government discounts at participating colleges throughout the state, and eligibility for federal student loan forgiveness.  
  • Plan For Your Future – WSDOT offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options. Employees also have their choice of state retirement programs, and much more. Go to State Benefits for more information.

WSDOT is an equal opportunity employer. We value the importance of creating an environment in which all employees can feel respected, included and empowered to bring unique ideas to the agency. Our diversity and inclusion efforts include embracing different cultures, backgrounds and viewpoints while fostering growth and advancement in the workplace. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, disabled and Vietnam era veterans, as well as people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply. Persons with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the listed Recruiter.

Contact us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter, Rachel Giese at GieseR@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 23DOT-HQ-05188i in the subject line. 

To Apply: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/washington/jobs/3942330/habitat-connectivity-intern-tpt1

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