Job Description
Salary: $4,653.00 - $6,259.00 Monthly
Location : Grays Harbor County - Montesano, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number: [click to reveal phone number]2025-06472
Department: Dept. of Fish and Wildlife
Opening Date: 09/15/2025
Closing Date: 9/24/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
Description Title- European Green Crab Regional Biologist
Classification- Fish and Wildlife Biologist 2
Job Status- Full-Time / Permanent
WDFW Program- Fish Management Program - Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Division
Duty Station- Montesano, Washington - Grays Harbor County
Learn more about being a member of !
Photo caption: European Green Crab Trapping - Photo Credit: WDFW
Play a key role in protecting Washington's waters by preventing the introduction and spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS) as part of the AIS Prevention Program. This journey-level biologist position focuses on early detection, monitoring, research, and removal of AIS - particularly European Green Crab (EGC). In this role, you will supervise Scientific Technician 2s and lead field operations supporting AIS-related projects. Your work will directly contribute to preventing new AIS introductions, responding rapidly to detections, and containing, controlling, or eradicating established priority species. What to Expect- Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the European Green Crab Regional Biologist will,
Perform European Green Crab (EGC) Management Actions: - Train staff to properly conduct EGC monitoring using established protocols.
- Coordinate with agency partners, tribal co-managers, and other entities (e.g., Washington Sea Grant, Northwest Straits Commission, Lummi Nation, Shoalwater Bay Tribe, Pacific County) conducting EGC work.
- Plan and implement early detection, monitoring, assessments, rapid responses, control/removal, and research trapping efforts for EGC throughout marine intertidal and subtidal habitats, following established procedures.
- Conduct surveys to determine relative abundance, distribution, and population trends of EGC.
- Organize and conduct intensive EGC removal trapping efforts in coordination with federal, state, local, and tribal governments, stakeholders, and volunteers.
- Develop initial reports of data collected and provide recommendations to higher level fish and wildlife staff for management actions.
- Maintain records and prepare detailed summary reports and conduct high-level quality control and quality assurance (QC/QA) on all data.
- Assist in organization and facilitation of regional EGC technical working group meetings.
- Participate in EGC technical working group meetings providing regional expertise, support, and advice under direct supervision.
- Ensure consistent QC/QA procedures are applied to all EGC-related data.
Supervise and Mentor Staff:
- Supervise Scientific Technician 2s in assessments throughout Washington's marine waters.
- Supervise Scientific Technician 2s conducting EGC field efforts.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
Work Setting, including hazards:
- Approximately 80% field and 20% office.
- Hike 2 to 3 miles per day while carrying up to a 50-pound dry bag or frame pack across Washington's diverse marine environments, including intertidal habitats such as marshes, channels, and mudflats.
- Field hazards may include uneven terrain, stinging vegetation, insects, biting and pinching animals, and encounters with wildlife.
- Usually part of a team, sometimes working independently, in remote locations, following strict adherence to call in and out procedures.
- Duties may be performed during inclement weather, both day and night.
- May operate both motorized (e.g., airboats, aluminum boats under 26', rigid inflatables) and non-motorized (e.g., kayaks, inflatables, canoes) watercrafts, depending on experience.
- This position may involve working in or near water, including tasks that require navigating, negotiating, and performing duties related to water environments.
Schedule:
Workweek will typically be the first 40 hours of work per week (24/7). May require occasional work outside regular hours, including holidays and weekends, and respond on short notice to rapid response AIS emergencies.
Travel Requirements: Frequent statewide travel and overnight stays up to five (5) days.
Tools and Equipment: Desktops, laptops, smart phones, electronic tablets, electronic software forms, PFDs, and field gear (e.g., hip boots, xtratuffs, raingear, dry bag, frame pack). Complex mobile water quality laboratory, eDNA, and non-electronic biological and environmental sampling devices. 25 foot-cargo trailer, watercrafts, flatbed trailer, winches, motor vehicles, and complex hot water trailered and hand-pushed pressure washers.
Customer Interactions: Regularly interact with the public while conducting fieldwork. May occasionally encounter uncooperative or non-compliant individuals. Coordinate regularly with tribal co-managers and conduct work on tribal lands.
QUALIFICATIONS: Required Qualifications: A bachelor's degree in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, or environmental science
and One (1) year of professional experience in fish/wildlife/habitat management or research.
Please Note: - Professional equivalent experience in aquatic invasive species, fish, wildlife, or natural resource management may substitute for the required education on a year-by-year basis.
- A Master's degree or Ph.D. degree in the applicable science may substitute for one (1) year of the required experience.
Certifications/Licenses:
- Valid driver's license.
- Motorboat Operator Training Course (MOTC) Certification.
Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment:
- Successful completion of agency training and/or certification for assigned watercraft is dependent on supervisory direction, position need and training availability.
- Washington State Boater Education Card (within 1 month of hire).
- First Aid Certification (within 6 months of hire).
- Watercraft Inspection Training Levels I / II (within 6 months of hire).
- Incident Command System (ICS) Training: 100, 200, 700, 800 (virtual), and 300 (in-person) (within 6 months of hire).
Preferred Qualifications:
In addition to the required qualifications, our ideal applicant will possess some or all the following: - A Master's Degree, or a higher-level degree in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, or environmental science or a related field.
Experience:
- Three (3) years of experience in a natural resources-related field.
- One (1) year of experience in the Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) field.
- One (1) year of experience managing and monitoring European green crab populations.
- Preparing comprehensive written reports.
- With database construction, management, and routine analysis functions.
- Managing a heavy workload effectively.
- Operating and/or working in and around boats, trailers, etc.
- Towing/trailering boats and/or trailers (e.g., cargo trailers, trailered decontamination units).
- Using handheld data collection devices (e.g., smartphones, iPads) in the field and entering data using platforms such as iForms, Survey 123, and Quick Capture.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office (e.g., Access, Teams, Excel, PowerApps).
- Using ESRI products and any other online mapping tools.
- Identifying invasive and native crab species.
- Identifying species using a taxonomic key or field guide.
- Humanely euthanize invasive species.
- With aquatic invasive species management principles and procedures.
- Developing, implementing, and managing statewide biological studies and management actions.
Certifications / Licenses:
- Washington State Boater Education Card or equivalent.
- CPR / First Aid / AED Certified.
- Watercraft Inspection Training (WIT) Levels I / II.
- Incident Command System (ICS) Training: 100, 200, 300, 700, and 800.
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 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: [click to reveal phone number]2025-1234 - 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 [click to reveal email address] Jayme.Chase@dfw.wa.gov , or the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) at [click to reveal phone number]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 #2025- 05363.
Follow us on social media: LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram DH
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 [click to reveal phone number]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 07-21-2025
01
Are you currently an employee of the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife? This includes permanent, non-permanent, intern, project, and career seasonal.
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
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.
04
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.
05
Please select the option below that best describes your professional experience in fish/ wildlife/ habitat management or research.
- No experience.
- Less than 1 year of experience.
- 1 - 4 years of experience.
- 4 - 5 years of experience.
- 5 or more years of experience.
06
Please select the option below that best describes your experience in aquatic invasive species, fish, wildlife, or natural resource management.
- No experience.
- Less than 1 year of experience.
- 1 - 4 years of experience.
- 4 or more years of experience.
07
Please briefly describe your experience in fish/ wildlife/ habitat management or research. Include your experience in aquatic invasive species, fish, wildlife, or natural resource management. ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).
08
Please briefly describe your experience in planning and implementing biological studies, particularly in the management of aquatic invasive species such as the European Green Crab (EGC). ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).
09
Please select the option below that best describes your experience managing a team.
- No experience.
- Less than 1 year of experience.
- 1 or more years of experience.
10
Please briefly describe your experience managing a team - include the strategies you have used to lead and motivate a team, and how you ensure performance objectives are met while managing complex field operations. ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).
11
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
- MHCC - Mount Hood Community College
- 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
12
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, Part time, Casual work, Internship, Seasonal work, Work at office, Local area, Remote work, Flexible hours, Shift work, Night shift,