For more information, please follow this link: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/washington/jobs/3341870/biology-program-manager-tps4

Salary- $69,264.00 – $93,132.00 Annually
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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.
 
The Opportunity
WSDOT has an opportunity for an exceptional biologist who is passionate about the environment to join the Southwest Region Environmental Services Team. This position will directly support the transportation needs of Washington State and be a part of the exciting work WSDOT is doing to meet environmental stewardship goals. The Biology Program Manager serves as the Region subject matter expert supporting highway project design, construction, and operations. In this role, you will be able to apply your biology, natural resource, and Endangered Species Act (ESA) expertise in collaboration with WSDOT staff, along with federal, state, and local agencies; tribal governments; and the public to identify creative environmental solutions.  This position will strategically manage the Southwest Region biology program policy, standards, and procedures, and ensure the Region’s construction, maintenance and operations activities comply with all federal, state, and local environmental laws and regulations in a manner that is consistent with WSDOT’s mission and goals.

What to Expect
Exposure to hazards is limited to those commonly found in an office, with occasional site visits or fieldwork subject to standard hazards associated with highway construction sites. Position will negotiate obstacles during field work, including downed logs, dense brush, shallow streams, tidal channels and steep slopes while managing equipment.

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Biology Program Manager will:

  • Ensure consistency and compliance with environmental laws, regulations, and agency policies and procedures.
  • Prepare or oversee preparation of technical reports including Biological Assessments, Programmatic BAs, and National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) technical reports/memos.
  • Collaborate with design/construction offices, HQ Environmental Services Office, Region environmental staff, and others to identify environmental compliance strategies.
  • Collaborate with regulatory agencies, tribes, and other key stakeholders.
  • Successfully negotiate and resolve complex environmental approval and compliance issues.
  • Review highway project plans, contract provisions, and construction projects for compliance with environmental permit and documentation provisions.
  • Apply federal, state, and local agency laws, regulations, and policies to WSDOT business practices. Region expert and main point of contact for all Biology/Natural Resource support.
  • Independently plan, direct, and conduct scientific and technical assessments of aquatic systems and plant and animal communities at project sites.
  • Direct fish exclusion activities for maintenance and construction permit compliance as lead biologist.
  • Plan and conduct wildlife monitoring and plant and animal surveys in support of Migratory Bird Treaty Act, Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, and as required by regulatory agencies.
  • Manage biology program work force to ensure projects schedules are met.

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

  • A Bachelor’s degree with major of study in Biology, Ecology, Wildlife Conservation, Environmental Science, Environmental Resource Management, Fisheries, or closely related environmental field. (A Master’s degree in one of the above fields will substitute for one year of the required experience)
  • Four (4) years professional experience analyzing environmental issues and problems.
  • Expert level knowledge of Washington state and federal environmental laws, processes, and details as they relate to field biology and legal compliance with Endangered Species Act (ESA) and Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) in the areas of aquatic and terrestrial wildlife, vegetation, and habitats.
  • Skilled in field biology techniques and methods, including scientific report writing and the ability to independently plan and conduct field studies, evaluating the effects of construction and operation of transportation facilities on plant communities, fish, wildlife, threatened/endangered species, designated critical habitat, marine mammals, and suitable habitats.
  • The ability to relocate tools, equipment, and materials weighing up to 30 pounds from one location to another.
  • A valid unrestricted Driver’s license.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

  • Two (2) years of experience directly providing technical expertise to satisfy the requirements of the Endangered Species Act on individual formal and informal consultations and programmatic consultations including producing Biological Assessments or Biological Opinions.
  • Advanced knowledge and experience in WSDOT construction practices.
  • Successful completion of WSDOT’s Biological Assessment Preparation training.
  • Two (2) years of experience identifying and evaluating the effects of construction and operation of transportation facilities on plant communities, fish, wildlife, threatened and endangered species and their habitats.
  • Knowledge of fish, wildlife, and threatened and endangered species life history and ecology.
  • Experience leading and facilitating meetings with a diverse set of participants.
  • Qualified Directing Biologist for fish exclusion – 100 hours or more of electrofishing experience in the field.
  • Certified Erosion and Spill Control Lead (CESCL) Certification and experience with construction compliance.
  • Knowledge and experience in the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) /State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) review process.
  • Experience presenting technical information to a variety of audiences.

 
Important Notes 

  • This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
  • The recruiting efforts for this position may be extended beyond the displayed closing date for as long and until a sufficient candidate pool has been established. However, the first review of applications will be conducted December 27, 2021. The Appointing Authority reserves the right to make a hiring decision at any time thereafter. It is to your benefit to submit your application as soon as possible.
  • By issuance of proclamation, the Governor of Washington State mandates that all employees who work for executive cabinet agencies (which includes the Department of Transportation) must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. This 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.

 
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 11 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.

 
Check out this video to learn more: Why WSDOT?

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.
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 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.

Please click the “APPLY” button to proceed. Note that you will be prompted to either sign in or create an account. This step is required in order to submit an application to this opportunity.
 
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.

WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system. For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov
 
Contact us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter, Robyn Lovely at LovelyR@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 21DOT-SWR-41106 in the subject line.