Job Description

Salary: $5,928.00 - $7,973.00 Monthly
Location : Jefferson County - Port Townsend, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 2026-05825
Department: Dept. of Fish and Wildlife
Opening Date: 07/14/2026
Closing Date: 7/28/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

Description
Working Title- Wildlife Biologist

Classification- Fish & Wildlife Biologist 4

Job Status- Full-Time/Permanent

WDFW Program- Wildlife Program - Region 6

Duty Station- *Port Townsend, Washington - Jefferson County

*Port Townsend, Washington is the current duty station, however, depending on the successful candidate an alternate duty station in Shelton, Washington (Mason County) may be considered. TELEWORK: While this position may offer a telework option, the successful candidate must be available to report to the duty station as needed.
Learn more about being a member of Team WDFW !
Photo Caption - Black-tailed deer - Photo Credit: Bill Hebner
Are you passionate about the preservation and protection of wildlife?
With sustainability and conservation in mind, you will implement and develop recommendations for wildlife management, conservation, and recreation opportunities within District 15 which includes portions of Eastern Jefferson, Kitsap and Mason counties.
This is an opportunity to assess wildlife populations and habitats, conduct inventories, and monitor diverse wildlife populations.
WHAT TO EXPECT -

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, this position:
Serves as the district's technical expert regarding wildlife population status, trends and distribution.

• Develops or co-develops wildlife surveys for District 15.
• Conducts assigned wildlife surveys and monitoring as part of statewide efforts including, but not limited to, distance sampling surveys for invertebrates, acoustic surveys for upland birds, helicopter and fixed wing surveys for big game, waterfowl, shorebirds and other wildlife species.
• Use of statistical methods and software to analyze data.
• Compiles and analyzes data and writes reports.

Develops recommendations for wildlife management and recreation opportunities within the district.

• Independently evaluates biological data and develops recommendations regarding hunting regulations for review by wildlife leadership.
• Develop recommendations regarding species recovery plans and wildlife area plans.
• Provides technical expertise during development of proposed WAC changes and wildlife management policies. Develops and presents land acquisition, habitat enhancement and other grant proposals.

Implements a ctivities directed toward wildlife management, conservation, and recreation within the district.

• Conducts population augmentation, capture, and translocation of wildlife.
• Use of chemical immobilization drugs and related equipment (e.g. dart guns) for capturing wildlife.
• Euthanizing wildlife when necessary for humane, scientific, or other management purposes, at times requiring the use of firearms.
• Using biologically based skills, conducts complex inspections and investigations (such as necropsies of dead animals in various states of decay) to gather biological samples or determine the cause of mortality.
• Carries out harvest monitoring.

Communicates with the public, tribes and other agencies on diverse wildlife issues within the district.

• Participates in tribal co-management activities and meetings.
• Explains data and presents options, orally or in writing, to public groups to increase public knowledge of diverse wildlife issues within the district.

Assigns and dire cts the work of the Assistant District Wildlife Biologist while working in District 15.

• Assists the District 16 Wildlife Biologist with planning work, training, evaluating and mentoring staff.
• Leads team on carrying out assignments and ensures deadlines are met.
• Ensure staff have the equipment and supplies they need to safely conduct field surveys efficiently and effectively.

Working Conditions:

Work setting: Work is conducted in an office and in the field. Field work includes travel to and from field sites and work in outdoor conditions often in extreme weather conditions. Field surveys are conducted by airplane, helicopter, boat, vehicle and on foot. Field work can vary from 10% to 80% depending upon season and requires working alone outdoors during inclement weather, walking over rough terrain (typically less than a mile but occasionally over long distances of several miles) while sometimes carrying heavy loads in excess of 50 pounds. Handles immobilization drugs for capturing wildlife and uses firearms when necessary to euthanize wild animals. This position may involve working in or near water, including tasks that require navigating, negotiating, and performing duties related to water environments.
Schedule: Core work hours for this position are 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday, but often include long and irregular hours to include nights and weekends as determined by business needs and emergent issues. Work outside these hours may be assigned as needed to complete work tasks.
Travel requirements: Frequent single-day trips to work sites throughout assigned area. Infrequent overnight travel to other areas of Washington for up to 1 week at a time may occur to attend conferences, trainings, assist with fieldwork, etc. Occasional travel for out of local area meetings and/or conferences may be necessary as determined by business needs and emergent issues dictate.
Customer Interactions: Numerous interactions with the public, tribes, elected officials, and other government employees by phone, in writing and in person. Gives formal presentations to a variety of audiences and interacts with hunters and others in the field. Angry members of the public and hostile interactions, although uncommon, will be encountered requiring an ability to remain calm, professional, and diplomatic.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Required Qualifications:
Option 1:

A Bachelor's degree in wildlife management, natural resource science, or environmental science.
And
Five (5) years of professional experience in wildlife management or wildlife research.
Option 2:

A Master's degree in wildlife management, natural resource science, or environmental science.
And
Four (4) years of professional experience in wildlife management or wildlife research.
Option 3:

A Ph.D. in wildlife management, natural resource science, or environmental science.
And
Three (3) years of professional experience in wildlife management or wildlife research.
Option 4:

Four (4) years as a Fish & Wildlife Biologist 3.
Option 5:

Nine (9) years of professional experience in wildlife management or wildlife research.
For ALL of the options above:

• Valid driver's license.
• Ability to legally possess and use firearms in a safe and accurate manner (background check, drug screening and proficiency qualification required before firearm use).
• Ability to pass background checks, drug screening, and training to receive authorization to use a firearm.

Special Requirement/Condition of Employment:

This position has been designated as one for which a Department-issued firearm is required and essential to the Department. With the approval of the Appointing Authority or designee, provided the incumbent is able to meet the conditions and requirements of the agency firearm policy (Policy 7011), the incumbent will be authorized to carry and utilize a Department-issued firearm while in this position, provided he/she can continue to meet the requirements of Policy 7011. The incumbent must successfully pass a background check, drug screening, and required firearm authorization training, including performing animal euthanasia as needed.
Preferred Qualifications:

In addition to the required qualifications, our ideal applicant will possess some or all the following:
Job knowledge:

• Wildlife population relationships and ecology.
• Wildlife habitat relationships.
• Wildlife survey methods.
• Applicable state, federal, and local environmental regulations and policies.
• Principles of wildlife harvest management.
• Personal computer hardware and software (MS Office).
• Must have good oral and written communication skills - conveys clear, timely, persuasive messages that positively influence the thoughts and actions of others.
• Species identification.
• Wildlife management tools and field techniques.
• Contract development and administration.

Ability to:

• Follow prescribed protocols and procedures.
• Conduct field surveys to collect data.
• Conduct data analysis and make inferences from data.
• Train and mentor staff.
• Organize and prioritize work for self and others.
• Develop effective objectives, timelines and action plans.
• Communicate clearly and effectively with individuals and groups within and outside of the organization, both in writing and verbally.
• Negotiate effectively.
• Walk, bend, stoop, while at times carrying up to 50 pounds.
• Load and transport equipment and gear.
• Use critical thinking in collecting, recording, compiling, and summarizing data.
• Follow oral and written directions.
• Visually discriminate when identifying and distinguishing biological and physical features.
• Perform routine and repetitive work in an accurate, punctual, dependable, safe and efficient manner.
• Work independently and as a team member.
• Safely operate motor vehicles on and off road, in field situations.
• Safely operate motorized and non-motorized vessels up to 24 feet.

Your application must include the following:

• A COMPLETED online application showcasing how your qualifications align with the job requirements.
• An up-to-date resume.
• A cover letter detailing your interest in the position, your relevant skills and experience, and why you are the ideal candidate.
• At least three (3) professional references with current contact information.

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION:

In addition to and other , there are other that WDFW employees may be eligible for. Click the "Benefits" tab at the top of this announcement to learn more.
Important Note:

All new employees must complete an Employment Eligibility Verification Form (I-9 Form) on their first day of work. If hired for this or any position at WDFW, you will be required to provide documentation proving you are eligible to work in the United States. For a list of acceptable documents, please use the following link:
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 and Military Spouse Preference Notice:

Per Veterans and qualifying spouses who meet the minimum qualifications of a position are eligible for preference during the initial application review stage. To receive this benefit, please do the following:

• Notify us of your veteran or military spouse status by email at
• Veterans only - Attach a copy of your DD214 (Member 4 copy), NGB 22, or USDVA signed verification of service letter.
  • Please redact any PII (personally identifiable information) data such as social security numbers.
• Subject line must include recruitment number, position, and spouse/veteran (example: 2024-1234 - Biologist 1 - Veteran).
• Include your name as it appears on your application in careers.wa.gov.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Employer

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. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, disabled and Vietnam era veterans, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply.
Request an accommodation: Persons needing accommodation in the application process or this announcement in an alternative format please contact Jayme Chase by phone [click to reveal phone number]360-902-2278 or email , or the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) at 800-833-6388.
Technical Difficulties: If you are having technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application, please call NEOGOV toll-free at [click to reveal phone number](855) 524-5627 or
Other questions: If you have other questions regarding this position, please reach out to and reference job #2026-05825 .
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More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.

We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.

Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.

Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.

Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.

Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.

To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.

Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.

Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.

The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.

Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.

Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.

Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.

Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.

Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.

Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.

Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.

Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.

Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.

Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

As provided in , an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.

Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.

Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.

Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.

Additional Leave
Leave Sharing

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 01-07-2026
01

Are you currently an employee of the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife? This includes permanent, non-permanent, intern, project, and career seasonal.

• Yes
• No

02

Do you have a valid driver's license?

• Yes, I have a current valid driver's license.
• No, I do not have a current valid driver's license.

03

This position requires the incumbent to be able to legally possess and use firearms in a safe and accurate manner, including performing animal euthanasia as needed. This will require a background check, drug screening, and proficiency qualification before firearm use. Are you able to meet this requirement?

• Yes, I am able to meet this requirement.
• No, I am not able to meet this requirement.

04

Please select the option below that best describes the highest level of education you have completed.

• High School Diploma/GED.
• Some College.
• Vocational Degree or Certificate.
• Associate's Degree.
• Bachelor's Degree.
• Master's Degree.
• Ph.D.
• None of the above.

05

What is your major area of study? If you possess multiple degrees, please list each degree and major. (If this does not apply to you, please put N/A.) This includes both vocational and college education.
06

Which option best describes your experience as a Fish & Wildlife Biologist 3 or your professional experience in wildlife management or wildlife research?

• I do not have this experience.
• I have less than 3 years of this experience.
• I have between 3 years and 4 years of this experience.
• I have between 4 years and 5 years of this experience.
• I have between 5 years and 6 years of this experience.
• I have between 6 years and 7 years of this experience.
• I have between 7 years and 8 years of this experience.
• I have between 8 years and 9 years of this experience.
• I have 9 years or more of this experience.

07

Please list where you gained your experience as a Fish & Wildlife Biologist 3 or your professional experience in wildlife management or wildlife research. Include the name of the organization(s) where you worked and dates of employment. FOR EXAMPLE: WDFW, F&W Biologist 3, 03/2020 - 10/2020. If you do not have this experience, enter "N/A" in the box below. Do not write "See application/resume/cover letter" as those are not valid responses.
08

Describe your experience surveying and monitoring wildlife populations. Please include the species you have worked with, the methods you have used and your role in developing, implementing and analyzing those efforts. If you do not have this knowledge or experience, enter "N/A" in the box below. Do not write "See application/resume/cover letter" as those are not valid responses.
09

This position requires field work in remote areas occasionally under challenging conditions. Briefly describe your experience conducting independent field work and how you prepare for safety while working in the field. If you do not have this experience, enter "N/A" in the box below. Do not write "See application/resume/cover letter" as those are not valid responses.
10

Briefly describe your experience working collaboratively with tribes, federal, state, local agencies, non-governmental organizations, or private landowners on wildlife management or conservation projects. If you do not have this experience, enter "N/A" in the box below. Do not write "See application/resume/cover letter" as those are not valid responses.
11

This position frequently represents WDFW at meetings and public events. Briefly describe your experience presenting information, facilitating discussions, or representing your organization in public or partner meetings. If you do not have this experience, enter "N/A" in the box below. Do not write "See application/resume/cover letter" as those are not valid responses.
12

How did you hear about this job posting? (Select all that apply).

• American Fisheries Society (AFS)
• Careers.wa.gov
• Community Based Organization
• Community/Technical College
• Conservation Job Board
• El Informador
• Facebook
• Four W's Fishing Team, LLC - Willard Franklin III, LinkedIn
• Handshake
• Hiring Event/Workshop
• Hydraulic Institute (HI)
• Indeed.com
• Job Board
• Job Fair
• LinkedIn
• Mount Hood Community College (MHCC)
• Newspaper
• Other
• Other State Agency
• Other Website
• Professional Association
• Society of American Foresters (SAF)
• Texas A&M
• University Job Board
• UW College of the Environment
• WDFW Employee
• WDFW Recruiter
• WDFW Website
• Word of Mouth
• WorkSource
• X (formerly Twitter)

13

Tell us more - kindly share which website, organization, person, or other source led you to this job posting.
Required Question

Job Tags

Permanent employment, Full time, Contract work, Part time, Internship, Seasonal work, Local area, Remote work, Long distance, Monday to Friday, Flexible hours, Shift work, Night shift

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