Fish Science Technician - Scientific Technician - Non

Job Overview

Title:

Fish Science Technician
Classification:
Scientific Technician 2
Job Status:
Full‑Time – Non‑Permanent

Number of Vacancies :
Three (3)
Appointment Length: 4 months – August 1, 2026 – November 30, 2026
Program:
Fish Program
Duty Station:
Twisp, Washington – Okanogan County

The salary listed above does not include the 2% pay increase that goes into effect on July 1, 2026.

• Function as part of a team to perform fish capture activities using rotary‑screw traps and conducting electrofishing surveys to meet study objectives.
• Accurately collect and record biological data including species identification, length, weight, marks, scales, genetics, and environmental data such as GPS waypoints, temperature, survey time, survey length.
• Mark captured juvenile salmonids with passive integrated transponder (PIT) tags.

Envision yourself in the field, assisting with the operation of rotary‑screw traps and performing electofishing surveys to capture and mark juvenile salmonids to elucidate a critical life‑stage and improve regional salmon recovery efforts.

• Fieldwork environment including work in inclement weather.
• Use of standard chemicals for fish anesthesia (MS‑222) and sterilization chemicals (alcohol).
• Walk 4–6 miles of rugged, low‑order river terrain daily and work regularly in swift river environments.
• Occasionally lift up to 75 lb during fish transport from collection sites to tagging stations.
• Position involves working in or near water, including tasks that require navigating, negotiating, and performing duties related to a water environment.

Typically, 40 hours per week. Scheduled workdays may vary from week to week with hours ranging between 8–12 hours depending on operational needs. Nights, weekends, and holidays may be required to facilitate work during peak periods.

Local travel to field locations is required to accomplish project duties. Occasional travel of longer distances and overnight stays may be required to attend meetings or training.

Passive integrated transponder (PIT) tagging gear, rotary‑screw traps, electrofishing equipment, vehicles, trailers, waders, boots, pumps, generators, various power and hand tools, computers, GPS units, coded wire tag (CWT) wands, and personal protective equipment (PPE).

Occasional contact with the public is expected when performing work tasks.

• 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.
• 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.
• College coursework involving major study in biology, zoology, fisheries, chemistry, natural sciences, or closely allied field can substitute for experience on a year‑for‑year basis provided the coursework includes at least six (6) semester or nine (9) quarter hours of natural science classes.

• Bachelor’s degree in fisheries, wildlife, environmental, or natural resource sciences.
• Experience with handling, sampling, and PIT tagging juvenile salmonids.
• Experience with rotary‑screw trap operation and maintenance, electrofishing surveys, and mark‑recapture methods.
• Experience with Microsoft Suite.

Valid Driver’s License.

In addition to pay and other employee programs, you may be eligible for additional benefits available to WDFW employees.

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, notify us of your veteran or military spouse status by email lard.gov. Veterans only – attach a copy of your DD214 (Member 4 copy), NGB 22 or USDVA signed verification of service letter (please redact any PII such as social security numbers).

Subject line must include recruitment number, position, and spouse/veteran. Include your name…