Aquatic Invasive Species Technician - Scientific Technician - Non-Perm

Title: Aquatic Invasive Species Technician
Classification: Scientific Technician 2
Job Status: Full-Time / Non-Permanent
Number of Vacancies: Five (5)
Appointment/Season Length: 2.5 months – April 1, 2025 – June 15, 2025
WDFW Program: Fish Program – Fish Management Division
Duty Station: Spokane, Washington – Spokane County

Play a key role in providing essential technical support to project lead biologists on the Lake Roosevelt Northern Pike Suppression Project and other fish stock assessment efforts in Region 1.

As part of a collaborative effort among regional co-managers, this project focuses on suppressing aquatic invasive species to protect native fish populations.

Additionally, the Scientific Technician 2 supports Fish Program activities related to fish management in Region 1, directly contributing to the conservation of resident fish in Lake Roosevelt and the protection of anadromous fisheries below Grand Coulee Dam.

• Conduct Field Surveys:
  • Perform gill net surveys for invasive fish species in Region 1.
  • Collect and record biological data on fish, including species identification, total length, fork length, weight, sex and maturity.
  • Gather biological samples such as aging structures, genetic tissue, and diet samples.
  • Check fish for existing tags/marks and apply various marking techniques.
  • Euthanize non-native species as part of suppression activities.
  • Accurately and legibly record effort and catch data.
• Maintain Field Equipment:
  • Maintain and repair fish sampling equipment.
  • Keep gear organized and in good working condition.

• Work is primarily conducted in field and warehouse settings with extensive vehicle travel.
• Fieldwork occurs in extreme weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, snow, ice, and prolonged exposure to cold water.
• Fieldwork takes place on a boat for extended hours on large bodies of water.
• Boat conditions may include slippery, wet, and uneven surfaces, as well as wavy conditions.
• Requires repetitive heavy lifting (up to 50 pounds) for setting and pulling gill nets.
• Involves handling fish in various states of disposition and euthanizing non-native fishes.
• Potential injuries include cuts, scrapes, bruises, muscle strains, and other injuries associated with field activities.
• Requires repetitive lifting and carrying equipment weighing 75 pounds or more over short distances.
• Must be able to negotiate water in emergency situations.
• Occasional office work may be required, involving extended hours on a computer and monitor.

Typically, 40 hours per week, Monday – Friday, though over 40 hours may be required. Workdays may exceed 8 hours, particularly on a boat in a team setting. Work is conducted primarily during the day, with occasional evening work.

Extensive daily travel, including up to 200 miles per day in a vehicle with other crew members.

Pickup trucks, boats, manual hand tools, electronic balances, handheld Passive Integrated Transponder (PIT) tag readers, handheld GPS, net repair tools, fish picks, clubs, knives, and personal protective equipment (PPE) such as personal flotation devices (PFDs), rain gear, waders, boots, gloves, ear protection, and eye protection.

May engage with the public at boat ramps and on the water.

• 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.
• OR
• Graduation from high school or GED including one (1) year of high 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 coursework includes at least six (6) semester or nine (9) quarter hours of natural science classes.

Valid driver’s license.

Successful completion of agency training and/or certification for assigned watercraft is dependent on supervisory direction, position need and training…