We are seeking candidates with demonstrated skills representing WDFW values of accountability, service, professionalism, integrity, respect, and empathy.

 The Department of Fish and Wildlife’s mission is to preserve, protect and perpetuate fish, wildlife and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish and wildlife recreational and commercial opportunities.

The department protects fish through the administration of the Hydraulic Project Approval (HPA) program.  The Regulatory Services Team provides a solid foundation for the HPA program by delivering accurate, courteous, timely, effective, and complete HPA data, document management, technical support and training.

The incumbent in this position is expert in the online Aquatic Protection Permitting System (APPS). This position is one of three staff that serve as initial contacts for HPA applications submitted from throughout the state and provides statewide technical and informational support related to APPS. This position requires a working knowledge of rules, regulations and statutory requirements governing WDFW HPA applications sufficient to verify submittal of all required documents.

This position reports to the Regulatory Services Coordinator in the Regulatory Services Section of the Habitat Program. The position reviews and evaluates HPA applications, plans, and supplemental materials for administrative and statutory completeness, communicates with applicants/agents on methods to achieve complete applications if deficient, and documents application status in the agency permitting database. Responsibilities also include reviewing and evaluating applications to ensure that all required components are submitted; explaining department requirements and procedures for applications; interpreting and explaining technical information to the public; notifying applicants/agents when applications are incomplete and requesting additional information as necessary; and providing instruction and technical support for staff. This position is also responsible for developing an expert knowledge of the HPA permitting process from application development through project completion and providing feedback on that process and the tools used to implement each piece of the process.

This position records work activities in various databases, documents, and spreadsheets and may analyze and report on the data. The position may assist supervisors or coworkers in training or implementation of program policy or guidance.

KEY DUTIES INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO:

Review and evaluate HPA application materials for accuracy and administrative statutory completeness. 

Tasks include: 

• Determining whether HPA application materials submitted by applicants are in accordance with the applicable statutes, rules, agency policies, and guidance.
• Assign complete applications to the appropriate Habitat Biologist for final permit issuance or denial.
• Correspond with applicants via email, surface mail, and phone regarding incomplete or inadequate applications submitted.

Develop a complete understanding of the permit application process from start to project completion and consider/propose methods for constant improvement. 

Tasks include:

• Accompany Habitat Biologists and other staff associated with HPA processing as they perform pre-construction site visits, discuss project plans and specifications, permit provisions and cause/effect relationships of the proposed work, and conduct post-project site visits.
• Accompany Compliance Inspectors as they conduct compliance inspections and assist with the documentation of those inspections.
• Act as a conduit between field staff and management for constant improvement ideas and concepts regarding the permitting process and best management practices being used.

Provide internal and external customer service and training on APPS, including the development and update of SOPs.

Tasks include: 

• Assist supervisor and permit system development team with development of program guidance, manuals, and help tools.Respond timely to requests for assistance in using the department’s HPA permitting system (APPS) via phone calls, emails, and personal contact.
• As needed, develop manuals and provide training and assistance to department staff on use of APPS and methods for application processing.
• Assist as needed with development of APPS procedures and guidance.
• Assist staff with development and update of Standard Operating Procedures for specific project types.
• Conduct necessary SOP training or workshops

Perform other duties as required

Tasks include: 

WORKING CONDITIONS: 

Work Setting, including hazards:

Schedule:  

• Standard business hours are Monday – Friday from 8:00a.m. to 5:00p.m, but the incumbent may need to adjust the work schedule to meet business needs.
• The department will consider a flexible work schedule at the incumbent’s request; however, this is subject to the supervisor’s approval.

Travel Requirements:   

Tools and Equipment:  

Customer Interactions:

• Daily contact with internal and external customers.
• Contact is primarily via email or phone, but face to face contact is also common.

Licenses: 

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS: 

• A Bachelor’s degree involving major study in environmental, physical, or one of the natural sciences, environmental planning or other allied field

And 

• Two years of professional level experience in environmental analysis or control or environmental planning.

OR  

• Additional qualifying experience will substitute, year for year, for education[CA(1]
• A Master’s degree in the applicable science will substitute one year of the required experience.
• A Ph.D. in one of the above fields

 OR

• One year of experience as an Environmental Specialist 2.

Desired skills and experience necessary for this work include:  

• Knowledge of fish and wildlife habitat management.
• Knowledge of the requirements of State Environmental Policy Act as they pertain to the Hydraulic Code.
• Demonstrated complex records management skills.
• Ability to accurately and timely enter information into log sheets and database forms.
• Proficient in the use of common computer functions and programs like Outlook, Word, and Excel.
• Proficient using standard office equipment including computers, digital scanners, photocopiers, printers, FAX.
• Good communication skills.
• Proficiency in the use of spreadsheets and word processing.
• Demonstrated organization and time management skills to effectively prioritize workload and maximize efficiency.

Competencies

1. Effectively communicates in individual and group discussions, independently analyzes and weighs the risks verses benefits in decisions and recommendations related to fish and wildlife resources, and habitat issues.
2. Builds rapport and partners with WDFW staff, the public, Indian Tribes, and local, state, and federal governmental agencies regarding issues pertaining to fish and wildlife protection.
3. Applies negotiation and conflict resolution skills when communicating with difficult people under difficult circumstances.
4. Uses excellent written and verbal communication skills when communicating with individuals and groups and to present complex or controversial information in a way that is understandable and non-confrontational to the permit applicants, coworkers and team members through consistently honest, forthright and professional interactions; logically integrates various ideas, intentions, and information to form effective goals, objectives, timelines, action plans, and solutions.
5. Is sensitive to customer and team member attitudes and concerns.   Is accessible to customers and team members and handles customer inquiries and complaints promptly, courteously, and non-bureaucratically.  Recognizes adverse reactions and develops better alternatives.  Provides products and services that consistently meet or exceed the needs and expectations of customers and team members without compromising protection of natural resources.
6. Involves appropriate staff in decision making that impacts them.   Discusses areas of agreement as well as disagreement or inconsistency in order to identify issues or aspects that need resolution.  Seeks different alternatives to reach a given end by looking for common ground and by looking beyond the obvious and not stopping at the first answers.   Distinguishes information that is not pertinent to a decision or problem solution.  Demonstrates a willingness to negotiate and make concessions to reach an acceptable solution that benefits all parties.  Presents interests in a diplomatic, professional manner oriented toward bringing about understanding and seeking resolution.  Can translate the ‘letter of the law’ into a variety of workable, legal options.  Accepts that management may adopt a different resolution with a divergent outcome from that presented.
7. Balances quality of work with ability to meet deadlines by making efficient and effective use of available time, equipment and resources. Knowledgeable of and practices Lean principles. Works with dedication, commitment and professionalism.  Adapts to stressful or changing situations and priorities.  Transitions easily between tasks, responding quickly and efficiently to work requests; successfully returns to incomplete tasks and continues work with minimal need to become re-oriented to the task.  Works accurately and timely with minimal supervision.   Exhibits self-initiative in developing or upgrading knowledge and skills and applying that new knowledge or skills in the work environment.
8. Doesn’t make excuses for errors or problems, instead, acknowledges and corrects mistakes.  Demonstrates ethical behavior.  Keeps commitments made to others.  Shows respect for self and others. Adapts to and positively deals with the stress of a high-paced work environment.  Asks for and accepts constructive feedback on performance and makes efforts to improve.  Accepts and follows supervisory direction.  Provides constructive feedback to others.  Maintains alertness and concentration during normal work period. Keeps supervisor and co-workers informed of need-to-know items, and follows chain-of-command when addressing problems or issues.

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 competencies and qualifications of this position (Generic cover letter will not be accepted).
• A current resume.
• Respond to the supplemental questions
• 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. 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.

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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