Duties

This position collects recreational and commercial catch data used for short-term quota management and long-term management of ocean recreational and commercial fisheries.  These duties are critical in ensuring that ocean fishery catches do not exceed allowable levels established to ensure conservation of fish resources.   The data collection duties of this position allow maximum fishing opportunity in economically depressed coastal communities, while assuring that conservation objectives are met for long-term fishery sustainability.  This position interacts with the public answering questions and explaining sampling procedures.

Conduct port sampling of recreational and commercial fisheries.

Tasks include: 

Collection of catch effort and biological data from the ocean recreational and commercial troll fisheries through angler interviews and examination of marine fish catches. On a daily basis, provide feedback and make judgements regarding sampling protocols and field procedures which directly affect the statistical validity of data used by ocean fishery managers to regulate the exploitation of ocean fish populations while promoting the conservation of fish populations through sustainable harvest of fish stocks which directly affect the economies, livelihoods, and unique culture of Washington’s coastal communities. Port Samplers also record, summarize, and tabulate field data utilizing electronic devices, software programs, and paper forms; including daily synchronization of data collection devices to external databases, and the reporting of all data on forms error free and in a timely manner to fishery managers used for in-season quota management. Additional responsibilities include regular professional interactions with sport, tribal, and commercial fishermen to explain WDFW research projects, procedures, and objectives to enlist their cooperation in reporting marked fish encounters, recording the types and locations of catches, and overall fishing effort.

Other duties as assigned 

WORKING CONDITIONS:  

Work Setting, including hazards:   

• Field 100%.   The work requires long and odd hours during the ocean fisheries.
• Requires complying with standard operating procedures, adhering to safety protocols, and utilizing recommended PPE.
• Work hours are spent standing, walking, bending, negotiating steep ramps, slippery surfaces, and unstable docks, boarding vessels, and lifting, handling, and manipulating fish up to 60 pounds.
• The work involves utilization of or being in close proximity to sharp sampling tools or fishing gear.
• The work can take place in busy fish houses or in cannery rooms around various types of equipment and machinery.
• Coastal temperature and weather extremes may be encountered in the field.  Some computer activities.
• Works independently with little supervision and work is assigned by supervisor.

 Schedule:   

Travel Requirements: 

Customer Interactions:

Licenses:

Qualifications

OR 

NOTE: College course work involving major study in biology, zoology, fisheries, chemistry, natural science, or closely allied field is preferable.

Supplemental Information

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.

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

• Email a copy of your DD214 (Member 4 copy), NGB 22 or USDVA signed verification of service letter to RecruitmentTeam@dfw.wa.gov.

• 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.

This recruitment is essential staff necessary to prosecute fisheries, hunting opportunities.

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.