State of Washington - Spokane Valley, WA
posted about 1 month ago
Full-time - Mid Level
Hybrid - Spokane Valley, WA
Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support
About the position
The Assistant Habitat Biologist position is a full-time, permanent role within the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) focused on managing, protecting, and restoring ecosystems for the benefit of fish, wildlife, and their habitats. The role involves collaboration with various stakeholders to ensure effective conservation practices and compliance with environmental regulations. The successful candidate will assist in the review of plans and permits related to habitat conservation and will engage in fieldwork to support these efforts.
Responsibilities
- Help administer the Hydraulic Project Approval process in accordance with relevant laws and codes.
- Review and issue low complexity Hydraulic Project Approvals (HPAs).
- Develop effective working relationships with stakeholders to resolve fish habitat conservation issues.
- Review permit applications and conduct field reviews to assist applicants.
- Recommend alternative project designs and techniques to minimize impacts to fish life.
- Conduct construction site inspections during and after construction.
- Assist Habitat Biologists with technical assistance to local governments regarding fish and wildlife regulations.
- Provide comments to local government planning staff during land use decision-making processes.
- Foster partnerships with City and County planners to incorporate best available science into decision-making.
- Assist in using and interpreting Priority Habitats and Species (PHS) mapping.
- Review and comment on Habitat Management Plans for projects in accordance with local ordinances.
- Coordinate with local jurisdictions to assist landowners in compliance with land use ordinances.
- Assist with Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Forest Practices reviews and Concurrence Reviews for fish habitat impacts.
- Provide technical assistance for salmon recovery projects and promote conservation of fish and wildlife resources.
Requirements
- A Bachelor's Degree in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, or environmental science.
- One year of professional experience in a natural resource agency working with diverse stakeholder groups.
- A valid driver's license.
Nice-to-haves
- Knowledge of ecological processes pertinent to the Northwest, including the natural history of Washington Salmonids.
- Experience with regulatory processes in Washington.
- Familiarity with the Hydraulic Code, Growth Management Act (GMA), State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA), and Shoreline Management Act (SMA).
- Demonstrated ability to build professional rapport and partnerships with various stakeholders.
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision insurance
- Retirement savings plan (401k)
- Paid holidays
- Flexible scheduling
- Professional development opportunities
