Fisheries Invasive Species Technician - Scientific Technician - Non-Perm

Title: Fisheries Invasive Species Technician

Classification: Scientific Technician 2

Job Status: Full-Time / Non-Permanent

Number of Vacancies: Four (4)

Appointment Length: 2.5 months – April 1, 2026 to June 15, 2026

Program: Fish Program – Fish Management Division

Duty Station: Spokane, Washington – Spokane County

Learn more about being a member of Team WDFW.

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.

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within these roles, the Fisheries Invasive Species Technicians will:

• 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 or 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.
• Repetitive heavy lifting (up to 50 pounds) for setting and pulling gill nets.
• Handle fish in various states of disposition and euthanizing non‑native fish.
• Potential injuries include cuts, scrapes, bruises, muscle strains, and other injuries associated with field activities.
• Repetitive lifting and carrying equipment weighing 75 pounds or more over short distances.
• Occasional office work may be required, involving extended hours on a computer and monitor.
• This position may involve working in or near water, including tasks that require navigating, negotiating, and performing duties related to water environments.

Typically Monday through Friday, 40 hours per week; however, actual days and hours may vary based on project needs. During field activities, workdays may exceed eight hours. Occasional weekend and holiday work may be required. Work is conducted primarily during daytime hours but may extend into the evening as needed. At times, working more than 40 hours per week may be necessary to meet project objectives.

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 PIT tag readers, handheld GPS, net repair tools, fish picks, clubs, knives, and personal protective equipment such as personal flotation devices, rain gear, waders, boots, gloves, ear protection, and eye protection.

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

Required:
Option 1 Graduation from high school or GED, including one year of high school science AND two years of experience as a Scientific Technician 1.

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

College coursework in biology, zoology, fisheries, chemistry, natural sciences or closely allied field may substitute, year for year, for experience, provided the…