Aquatic Invasive Species; AIS Lead - Scientific Technician - Non

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Working Title-Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Lead
Classification-Scientific Technician 3
Job Status-Full-Time/Non-Permanent
Appointment Length-4 Months – September 1, 2025 – December 31, 2025
WDFW Program- Fish Program – AIS Prevention Unit
Duty Station-Ridgefield, Washington – Clark County

Embrace this roleto protect state waters through managing AIS.

This is an opportunityto train new team members on complex monitoring methods and decontamination procedures.

In this dynamic role, you will provide early detection of zebra/quagga mussels, as well as monitor, review, and record collected data.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, this position will:

Early Detection Zebra and Quagga Mussel Monitoring.

• Be MOTC or similar qualified to operate a vessel on the water, and tow watercraft in a safe manner to collect monitoring samples.
• Survey high risk water bodies using multiple sampling methods such as: collect horizontal and vertical water samples using plankton tows, monitor artificial substrates, conduct visual shoreline surveys, collect water quality measurements using hyrdrolab and calcium collection techniques, collect substrate sample using petite Ponar grab and collect environmental DNA (eDNA) using a filter pump system. Data collected will be throughout Washington.
• Follow AIS mussel monitoring protocols to collect, review, record, and upload field data.
• Identify and report potential AIS while working in the field conducting sampling methods listed above.
• Interact with the public about the AIS work being conducted.
• Lead Ridgefield team watercraft operator.
• Safely operate a watercraft in Washington’s biggest rivers and lakes.
• Recommends new or modified monitoring methods and sites.
• Follow protocols to review and accurately record AIS data into databases.
• Organize, file, and summarize data.
• Maintain and update schedule and calendars, complete time sheets, complete order payment form submissions in a timely manner.

Education and outreach.

• Trains WDFW staff on routine invasive species management protocols.
• Provides AIS education and outreach to constituents at public meetings, fishing clubs, sport shows, fairs, and fishing tournaments.

Equipment Maintenance.

• Maintains vehicle, watercraft, trailer, electronic tablet, laptop, smart phone, environmental DNA backpack water filtration system and mobile water quality laboratory in a safe and working order.

Working Conditions:

Work setting: Approximately 90% field and 10% office. Work is conducted outdoors on water and land. Potential hazards include but are not limited to inclement weather, poor air quality, wildfires, strong waves, and currents. Incumbent works mostly as a team, but may work independently in remote locations, day and night, walk up to five miles on uneven ground, must be able to relocate 75 pounds, and pack 50 pounds.

Chemical use must be in accordance with labels and handled in a safe manner. Must safely transport and operate large equipment up to a 20-foot cargo trailer, flatbed trailer, winches, motor vehicles, and complex hot water trailered pressure washers. Must be able to conduct euthanasia on animals. This position may involve working in or near water, including tasks that require navigating, negotiating, and performing duties related to water environments.

Schedule: Monday – Thursday, 10-hour days. Will be required occasionally to exceed these hours. Incumbent may work outside of the normal workweek during holidays, weekends, and may be required to respond on short notice to rapid response AIS emergencies.

Travel requirements:Weekly statewide travel and overnight stays up to five days at times.

Customer Interactions:Interacts with the public on a regular basis while conducting fieldwork. Occasionally confronted by citizens that are non-compliant or not cooperative.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Required Qualifications:

Option 1: Graduation from high school or GED including one year of high school science, and four (4) years of experience as a…