Coded Wire Tagging & Mass Marking Specialist - Fish and Wildlife Bio 2 (In-Training) -Perm-*00484-25
Title- Coded Wire Tagging and Mass Marking Specialist
Classification- Fish and Wildlife Biologist 2 (In-Training Option)
Job Status- Full-Time / Permanent
WDFW Program- Fish Program – Hatcheries Division
Duty Station- Olympia, Washington – Thurston County
In-Training- We are recruiting to hire at the Fish and Wildlife Biologist 1 or 2 level, and we will train a Fish and Wildlife Biologist 1 up to the Fish and Wildlife Biologist 2.
Salary- Depending on which level you are hired at, your salary range will be as follows:
Fish and Wildlife Biologist 1: $ 3,643.00 - $ 4,865.00 monthly
Fish and Wildlife Biologist 2: $ 4,410.00 - $ 5,929.00 monthly
Learn more about being a member of Team WDFW!
Picture yourself independently operating an automated/manual mass marking and coded wire tagging mobile wet lab at hatcheries across the state.
In this role, you will plan, organize, and conduct coded wire tag experiments, analyze critical data to evaluate contribution rates, allocation, and broodstock identification, and assess the effects of mark-selective fisheries.
Your work will directly support the conservation of wild salmon through precise tagging and mass marking efforts.
What to Expect-
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Coded Wire Tagging and Mass Marking Specialist will,
Independently operate an automated/manual coded wire tagging and mass marking mobile wet lab statewide:
- Oversee up to eleven (11) contract employees to perform coded wire tagging and/or mass marking, which will include providing hazard communication training and monitoring work. Assist in teaching WDFW staff in proper tagging and marking techniques.
- Plan, organize, direct, and conduct coded wire tag (CWT) experiments, ensuring scientific random sampling for representative populations.
- Diagnose and repair issues with state-of-the-art automated marking/tagging mobile wet labs, including complex robotic systems, video imaging systems, and complex software.
- Monitor work product and fish health to ensure reliable scientific results.
- Analyze coded wire tag recoveries to evaluate contribution rates, allocation, and escapement using RMIS coded wire tag database.
Work with HEAT Unit, Hatchery Data Unit, and CWT Head Lab as directed by the Bio 3 and 4:
- Compile, quality-check, and analyze data.
- Provide data and summary reports/analyses to the Bio 3 for review and distribution to the requesting units.
Maintain Automated/Manual Coded Wire Tagging Mobile Wet Labs:
- Annually inspect, remove, and repair all mechanical devices to ensure optimal operation during tagging and marking operations.
- Re-home and test all six (6) stepper motors.
- Recalibrate the video imaging system by cleaning optics and infrared sensors.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
Work Setting, including hazards:
- Operate automated coded wire tag mobile wet lab in a hatchery environment and office setting.
- Work outdoor during inclement weather.
- Stand for extended periods and lifting 40 pounds commonly, working around hatchery ponds, and catwalks over hatchery ponds.
- Must be able to negotiate water in emergency situations.
Schedule:
Typically, Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm with possible shift work mainly in the spring. This position may work over forty hours per week often.
Travel Requirements:
Extensive travel and driving required. Travel up to six (6) months per year, five (5) days a week.
Tools and Equipment:
Basic and electric hand tools.
Customer Interactions:
Interact with Biologists, Hatchery personnel, Tribal Staff, and the public.
QUALIFICATIONS:
This Fish and Wildlife Biologist 2 series provides mentoring and career development opportunities for candidates with limited experience.
Candidates will be hired as a Fish and Wildlife Biologist 1 or 2 dependent on skills and experience.
Advancement from the Fish and Wildlife Biologist 1 to Fish and Wildlife Biologist 2 requires successful completion of the In-Training Plan, which will be provided upon hiring.
Required Qualifications for the Fish and Wildlife Biologist 1:
A Bachelor’s degree in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, or environmental science.
OR
Equivalent education/experience.
Please note: Closely related qualifying experience may be substituted for the required education on a year-by-year basis.
Certifications/Licenses:
Valid driver’s license.
Required Qualifications for the Fish and Wildlife Biologist 2 (Goal Class):
A Bachelor’s degree in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, or environmental science AND one (1) year of professional experience in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science or environmental science.
OR
One (1) year as a Fish and Wildlife Biologist 1.
Please Note:
- Master’s degree in the applicable science may substitute for the required experience.
- Closely related qualifying experience may be substituted for the required education on a year-by-year basis.
Certifications/Licenses:
Valid driver’s license.
Preferred Qualifications:
In addition to the required qualifications, our ideal applicant will possess some or all the following:
- Experience operating an automated or manual coded wire tagging/mass marking mobile wet lab.
- Experience operating and maintaining Mark IV coded wire tag (CWT) injectors.
- Knowledge of the CWT system.
- Knowledge and experience with all types of Electronic CWT Detectors.
- Experience working in a salmon hatchery environment.
- Experience supervising or directing employees.
- Ability to work independently and be self-motivated.
- Experience working with hand tools for general repairs to mechanical devices.
- Data analysis skills leading to publication of research findings.
Your application should include the following:
- A completed online application showcasing how your qualifications align with the job requirements.
- An up-to-date resume.
- A cover letter detailing your interest in the position, your relevant skills and experience, and why you are the ideal candidate.
- At least three professional references with current contact information.
Supplemental Information
In addition to pay and other special employee programs, there are other benefits that WDFW employees may be eligible for. Click the “Benefits” tab at the top of this announcement to learn more.
Important Note:
All new employees must complete an Employment Eligibility Verification Form (I-9 Form) on their first day of work. If hired for this or any position at WDFW, you will be required to provide documentation proving you are eligible to work in the United States. For a list of acceptable documents, please use the following link: https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents
Union- WAFWP:
This position is in the bargaining unit represented by the Washington Association of Fish & Wildlife Professionals and is subject to the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the State of Washington, Department of Fish & Wildlife, and the Washington Association of Fish & Wildlife Professionals.
Veteran and Military Spouse Preference Notice:
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, please do the following:
- Notify us of your veteran or military spouse status by email at Ashley.Lee@dfw.wa.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 (personally identifiable information) data such as social security numbers.
- Subject line must include recruitment number, position, and spouse/veteran (example: 2024-1234 – Biologist 1 – Veteran)
- Include your name as it appears on your application in careers.wa.gov.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Employer
As part of WDFW’s efforts to advance respectful and inclusive work environments, the Agency expects inclusivity as part of our professional interactions and communications. Therefore, we want to ensure that all individuals feel welcome, are treated fairly and respectfully. All staff are empowered to fully contribute to serving their work unit, Agency, and the citizens of Washington.
The Department of Fish and Wildlife is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, disabled and Vietnam era veterans and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply.
Request an accommodation: Persons needing accommodation in the application process or this announcement in an alternative format please contact Jayme Chase by phone 360-902-2278 or email Jayme.Chase@dfw.wa.gov, or the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) at 800-833-6388.
Technical Difficulties: If you are having technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application, please call NEOGOV toll-free at (855) 524-5627 or support@neogov.com.
Other questions: If you have other questions regarding this position, please reach out to Ashley.Lee@dfw.wa.gov and reference job #2025-00484.