Ocean Fisheries Port Sampler - Scientific Technician 2 - Non-Permanent-Twenty-One Openings-*01146-25

State of Washington; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

The State of Washington is seeking an Ocean Fisheries Port Sampler to collect catch effort and biological data from ocean fisheries. This role involves extensive fieldwork, interacting with fishermen, and ensuring data accuracy for fishery management. Ideal candidates will have a background in biology or related fields and be prepared for physically demanding work in various weather conditions.

Benefits

Health Insurance

Paid Leave

Retirement Plan

Flexible Work Hours

Qualifications

• One year of high school science and two years as Scientific Technician 1.
• Experience as an assistant to a biologist, chemist, or zoologist.

Responsibilities

• Conduct port sampling to determine catch per unit of effort.
• Collect biological data through angler interviews.
• Record and summarize field data using electronic devices.

Skills

Biology

Zoology

Chemistry

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

iPad

Laptop

Job description

Ocean Fisheries Port Sampler - Scientific Technician 2 - Non-Permanent-Twenty-One Openings-*01146-25

Join to apply for the Ocean Fisheries Port Sampler - Scientific Technician 2 - Non-Permanent-Twenty-One Openings-*01146-25 role at State of Washington

Ocean Fisheries Port Sampler - Scientific Technician 2 - Non-Permanent-Twenty-One Openings-*01146-25

3 days ago Be among the first 25 applicants

Join to apply for the Ocean Fisheries Port Sampler - Scientific Technician 2 - Non-Permanent-Twenty-One Openings-*01146-25 role at State of Washington

• Duty Station- Multiple Locations, Western Washington
• Multiple locations within Western Washington and a variety of anticipated appointment lengths – apply for one, a few, or ALL twenty-one (21) positions by submitting one application!
  
  

Description

Title- Ocean Fisheries Port Sampler

Classification- Scientific Technician 2

Number of Vacancies- Twenty-One (21)

Job Status- Full-Time - Non-Permanent

WDFW Program- Fish Program

• Duty Station- Multiple Locations, Western Washington
• Multiple locations within Western Washington and a variety of anticipated appointment lengths – apply for one, a few, or ALL twenty-one (21) positions by submitting one application!
  
  

TWO (2) POSITIONS AVAILABLE

APPOINTMENT LENGTHS & LOCATIONS:

Anticipated Appointment Length: 4.5 months

May 1, 2025 – September 15, 2025

One (1) Position - Neah Bay, Washington - Clallam County

Anticipated Appointment Length: 3.5 months

June 16, 2025 – September 30, 2025

One (1) Position - Ilwaco, Washington - Pacific County

Please Note: All positions listed below have been filled

Anticipated Appointment Length: 4.5 months

May 1, 2025 – September 15, 2025

Two (2) Positions – Ilwaco, Washington – Pacific County

One (1) Position – La Push, Washington – Clallam County

Four (4) Positions – Westport, Washington – Grays Harbor County

Three (3) Positions – Neah Bay, Washington – Clallam County

Anticipated Appointment Length: 3.5 months

June 16, 2025 – September 30, 2025

One (1) Position – Neah Bay, Washington – Clallam County

Three (3) Positions – Westport, Washington – Grays Harbor County

Five (5) Positions – Ilwaco, Washington – Pacific County

Learn more about being a member of Team WDFW!

Photo Caption: Sunrise on the Straight – Photo Credit: Ty Kaufman

Join the WDFW Team and collect catch effort and biological data from ocean recreational and commercial troll fisheries through angler interviews.

Examine marine fish catches and collect various biological data including, scales, DNA, otoliths and Coded Wire Tags (CWTs).

Make a positive impact on fishing opportunities in our coastal communities while ensuring that conservation objectives are met for fishery sustainability.

What to Expect-

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Ocean Fisheries Port Sampler will,

Conduct Port Sampling To Determine The Catch Per Unit Of Effort And Species Composition To Obtain Valid Sport Catch Estimates In Recreational And Commercial Fisheries

• Through angler interviews, collect catch effort and biological data from the ocean recreational and commercial troll fisheries. Examining marine fish catches and collecting various biological data, including scales, DNA, Otoliths, and coded wire tags (CWT).
• Provide feedback and make judgments daily regarding sampling protocols and field procedures, which directly affects the statistical validity of data used by ocean fishery managers.
• Record, summarize, and chart field data utilizing electronic devices, software programs, and paper forms, including daily synchronization of data collected into external databases, emphasizing promptness and error-free records.
• 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.
  
  

Working Conditions

Work Setting, including hazards:

• Position is 100% fieldwork and can occur in busy fish houses or cannery rooms around various types of equipment, machinery, sharp sampling tools or fishing gear.
• Work hours include long periods of sitting, squatting, kneeling, walking, climbing in and out of boats, sampling salmon in a boat, carrying and occasionally lifting (up to 60 lbs. unassisted) heavy containers of fish, fish blood, and slime, negotiating steep ramps unstable docks and slippery surfaces, biting and stinging insects, use of knives.
• This position may involve working in or near water, including tasks that require navigating, negotiating, and performing duties related to water environments. Must be able to negotiate water in emergencies.
• Coastal temperature and weather extremes may be encountered in the field.
• Some computer work is to be expected.
  
  

Schedule: Monday - Sunday, non-scheduled, 24/7. Typically, 8 - 10 hours per day between 3:00 A.M. - 10:00 P.M. 40 hours per week. Weekend work, non-consecutive days off, and occasional long hours are required.

Travel Requirements: A personal vehicle for daily travel is required within assigned ports. Seldom travel is needed to Montesano or other ports within Washington.

Tools and Equipment: Knives, scissors, tweezers, hemostats, measuring board, PFD, iPad, cell phone, laptop, and T wand.

Customer Interactions: Interacts with the public daily for fisheries data collection, providing basic information regarding fisheries resources, sport fishing regulatory information, and agency programs and activities. This may include interactions with individuals experiencing anger, distress, or frustration—liaison with regional supervisor and enforcement on fishery violations observed in the field.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

Option 1: Graduation from high school or GED, including one (1) year of high school science and two (2) years of experience as a Scientific Technician 1.

Option 2: Graduation from high school or GED, including one (1) year of school science and two (2) years of laboratory or field experience as an assistant to a biologist, chemist, or zoologist.

Please note: College coursework involving major study in biology, zoology, fisheries, chemistry, natural sciences, or closely allied field will substitute, year for year, for experience, provided the course work includes at least six (6) semesters or nine (9) quarter hours of natural science classes.

Certifications/Licenses

Valid Driver’s License

Your Application Should 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 professional references with current contact information.
  
  

Supplemental Information

In addition to pay and other special employee programs, there are other benefits 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: https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents

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 RCW 73.16.010 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 [e-mail].
• 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 [phone] or email [e-mail], 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 [phone] or [e-mail].

Other questions: If you have other questions regarding this position, please reach out to [e-mail] and reference job #2025-01146.

Follow us on social media: LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram

lb

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 WAC 357-31-165(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 WAC 357-31-165(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 WAC 357-58-175, 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, are entitled to three (3) 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

Parental Leave

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Leave Without Pay

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

Updated 12-31-2022

01

• Please select the Location(s) you are interested in applying for – Anticipated Appointment Length: 4.5 months - May 1, 2025 – September 15, 2025. (Select ALL that apply).
• FILLED - Two (2) Positions – Ilwaco, Washington – Pacific County
• FILLED - One (1) Position – La Push, Washington – Clallam County
• FILLED - Four (4) Positions – Westport, Washington – Grays Harbor County
• ONE AVAILABLE - Four (4) Positions – Neah Bay, Washington – Clallam County
• None of the above
  
  

02

• Please select the Location(s) you are interested in applying for – Anticipated Appointment Length: 3.5 months - June 16, 2025 – September 30, 2025. (Select ALL that apply).
• FILLED - One (1) Position – Neah Bay, Washington – Clallam County
• FILLED - Three (3) Positions – Westport, Washington – Grays Harbor County
• ONE AVAILABLE - Six (6) Positions – Ilwaco, Washington – Pacific County
• None of the above
  
  

03

• In the text box below, please confirm the Location(s)/Appointment Length(s) you are applying for and rank them in the order of your preference. (Examples: All Locations/Appointment Lengths – no preference. Neah Bay & Westport – June 16, 2025 – September 30, 2025. Ilwaco Locations – no preference on appointment length).
  
  

04

• 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.
  
  

05

• 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.
  
  

06

• 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.
  
  

07

• Please select the option below that best describes your experience as a Scientific Technician OR your experience as an assistant to a biologist, chemist, or zoologist.
• I do not have this experience
• I have less than 2 years of experience
• I have 2 years or more of experience
  
  

08

• Please briefly describe your experience as a Scientific Technician OR your experience as an assistant to a biologist, chemist, or zoologist. (“See Resume” is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).
  
  

09

• 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
• Indeed.com
• Job Board
• Job Fair
• LinkedIn
• Newspaper
• Other
• Other State Agency
• Other Website
• Professional Association
• Society of American Foresters (SAF)
• Texas A&M
• Twitter
• University Job Board
• UW College of the Environment
• WDFW Employee
• WDFW Recruiter
• WDFW Website
• Word of Mouth
• WorkSource
  
  

10

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

11

• Are you currently a permanent employee of the Department of Fish and Wildlife? ("Permanent employee" means an employee who has attained permanent status in a job classification upon successful completion of a probationary, trial service, or transition review period; this would include "Seasonal Career" appointments).
• Yes
• No
• Required Question

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Entry level

Employment type

• Employment type

  Part-time

Job function

• Job function

  Quality Assurance

• Industries

  Government Administration

Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at State of Washington by 2x

Get notified about new Quality Control Clerk jobs in Walla Walla, WA.

Employment System Policy & Integrity - Administrative Assistant 5 (AA5) Olympia

Permitting, Planning, and Budget Section (PP&B) Administrative Assistant 3

Front Office Receptionist | Marcus Whitman Hotel

We’re unlocking community knowledge in a new way. Experts add insights directly into each article, started with the help of AI.