Habitat Biologist – Fish & Wildlife Biologist

Title
:
Habitat Biologist

Classification
:
Fish & Wildlife Biologist 3

Job Status
:
Full‑Time / Permanent

Program
:
Habitat Program – Region 4

Duty Station
:
North Bend, Washington – King County

Hybrid/Telework
:
May telework up to 2 days per week at supervisor’s discretion.

As a senior‑level Biologist, the Habitat Biologist implements the Hydraulic Project Approval (HPA) permitting process and reviews environmental documents related to forest practices, growth and shoreline management acts, and SEPA/NEPA documents. The role provides technical assistance to support the conservation and management of fish, wildlife, and their habitats, applying best available science and adaptive management strategies to protect and restore ecosystems.

• Administer the HPA process in accordance with RCW, WAC, and agency policy: review permit applications, conduct field reviews, recommend BMPs and mitigation measures, coordinate with other agency personnel, issue or deny HPA approvals, and conduct compliance monitoring.
• Assist WDFW Compliance Inspectors or Enforcement in resolving hydraulic code violations and serve as an expert witness in related court cases.
• Provide biological expertise for forest practice activities: review FPAs for habitat impacts, process forest practice hydraulic permits, participate in Water Type Modification teams, and assist with wildlife plans.
• Review and comment on county/city critical area ordinances, shoreline master programs, and other local land‑use regulations, providing written comments and technical guidance to planners.
• Serve as a habitat restoration and enhancement expert for priority habitat and ecosystem recovery projects: lead restoration efforts, coordinate permitting, provide technical assistance to stakeholders, and support the salmon recovery lead entity process.

• Office and outdoor work; field duties include hiking, wading, and off‑road driving in remote forested and aquatic environments.
• Work may involve water and can be performed under rough weather or uneven terrain.

Full‑time, 40 hours per week; occasional evening or weekend work may be required. Overnight travel may be necessary.

• Boots, GPS, maps, clinometer, range finder, compass, electroshocking equipment, waders, rain gear, computer, phone, and a state‑assigned work vehicle.

Engage with agency staff, other governmental agencies, tribal, private stakeholders, special interest groups, and the public. Keep management informed of politically sensitive issues and consult supervisors before representing the Department.

Required Qualifications

• Option 1:
  Bachelor's degree in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, environmental science, or related field plus 3 years of professional fish or wildlife or habitat experience.
• Option 2:
  Two years as a Fish & Wildlife Biologist 2.
• Master’s degree may substitute for 1 year of required experience;
  Ph.D. may substitute for 2 years.

Certifications/Licenses

• Valid driver’s license.

Core Competencies

• Effective verbal and written communication.
• Openness to other perspectives, assertiveness, and commitment to public service.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of Pacific Northwest ecological processes.
• Understanding of regulatory processes including the Hydraulic Code, GMA, SEPA, and SMA.
• Willingness to engage in critical conversations with agency staff and stakeholders.
• Leadership and continuous improvement mindset.
• Receptiveness to supervisory direction and feedback.

WDFW employees are eligible for a range of benefits including pay, special employee programs, and additional benefits. Employees may also be entitled to union representation under the Washington Association of Fish & Wildlife Professionals.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Employer. The Department of Fish and Wildlife is an equal‑opportunity employer and encourages applicants from all backgrounds, including women, minorities, persons with disabilities, and veterans.

Veteran and military spouse preference:
Veterans who meet the minimum qualifications are eligible for preference during the initial application review stage.

Disability accommodations:
Persons needing accommodation in the application process may contact the designated accommodations coordinator. Technical difficulties contacting NEOGOV support can be resolved by phone or email.

To apply, submit an online application, resume, cover letter, and at least three professional references. Include a brief statement of eligibility under the EEO and veteran preference rules. The Final date to receive applications is communicated in the posting and the position is considered open until filled.