Salary: $5,812.00 - $7,817.00 Monthly
Location : Thurston County - Olympia, WA
Job Type: Part Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 2025-05565
Department: Dept. of Fish and Wildlife
Opening Date: 08/07/2025
Closing Date: 8/21/2025 11:59 PM Pacific

Description
Working Title- Oil Spill Planning & Response Specialist

Classification- Fish & Wildlife Biologist 4

Job Status- Full-Time/PermanentWDFW Program- Habitat Program - Protection Division

Duty Station- *Olympia, Washington - Thurston County

*Although this is a hybrid opportunity, the successful candidate must be available to report to the duty station located in Olympia, Washington as needed. The selected candidate may be able to telework/work remotely up to 4 days per week at the discretion of the supervisor.
Learn more about being a member of Team WDFW!
Photo Caption - Oil spill clean up - Photo Credit: WDFW
Embrace this role to serve as a senior biologist and an agency expert on directing and developing response activities to prevent oil spill damage to fish, wildlife, and their habitats.
With sustainability and conservation in mind, you will independently direct, develop, evaluate, manage, and implement statewide plans and policies to protect fish, wildlife, and their habitats relative to oil spills.
You are excited to use your biological expertise to conduct resource assessments, and in the development of regulations, related to oil spills.
WHAT TO EXPECT

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, this position will:
Oil spill response planning.

• Serves as a senior biologist and the agency's statewide expert on directing and developing response and damage assessment activities to protect and restore fish, wildlife, and their habitats from the impacts of oils spills.
• Works with Federal and State government Trustees along with wildlife response service providers, Tribal, and private interest groups to develop cooperative response plans.
• Participates in team efforts to develop, update, and improve geographic response plans to provide protection to sensitive natural resources in collaboration with state and federal trustees and other stakeholders in the planning process.
• Reviews and comments on industry, state, and federal strategic and tactical plans, administrative rules, and other documents that govern oil spill response in Washington.

General spill team member responsibilities.

• Standby: Serve as team "Duty Officer" in rotation with other team members as assigned (typically one-week (24/7) rotations). The Duty Officer is responsible for determining potential risk to fish and wildlife resources from spills and providing response recommendations as appropriate.
• Initial response activities: Participate in initial response activities as needed. These may include reconnaissance efforts (air, land, and water) and early sampling activities to assess risks and to document injuries to fish and wildlife resources.
• Cross-Training: Work with other team members to maintain the ability to help fulfill WDFW roles in the Incident Command System.
• Drills: Participate in Worst Case Discharge and deployment oil spill drills as assigned.
• Reoccurring meetings: Meet with response partners and division for reoccurring meetings focused on collaboration and training.
• Maintenance: Assist in the routine maintenance of the team equipment as required.
• Hydraulic Project Approval (HPA): Individual team members issue emergency HPAs associated with oil spill response activities.

Oil spill response.

• Represents the Department as a technical expert for fish and wildlife issues during spills. Provides technical expertise and logistical support for natural resource protection, wildlife rescue, and resource damage assessment activities during spill response.
• Provides fish and wildlife expertise and technical support to the Incident Command System primarily within the Wildlife Branch or Environmental Unit. Provides analysis and recommendations to ensure that the needs of fish and wildlife are given sufficient consideration.

Working Conditions:

Work setting: Although the position works primarily in an office setting, the work requires the ability to work in field locations, including working in boats, planes, and sometimes helicopters. This position may be exposed to, and work in, oiled environments under adverse weather conditions. Must be able to negotiate water in emergency situations.
Schedule: Typically, Monday - Friday, 40 hours/week. Position may be required to work additional work hours and outside of normal business hours. Standby Requirement: This position is responsible to be on standby in rotation with other team members for seven-day (24 hours/day) duty cycles.
Travel requirements: This position may require occasional overnight travel for up to several nights.
Customer Interactions: Interacts with state, federal, tribal, and local governmental entities. In addition, routinely interacts with representatives of petroleum companies, contractors, environmental NGOs, and wildlife response service providers.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Required Qualifications:
Option 1: Four (4) years as a Fish & Wildlife Biologist 3.
Option 2: A Bachelor's degree in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, or environmental science, and five (5) years of professional experience in fish management or research, wildlife management or research, or habitat management or research.
Option 3: A Master's degree in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, or environmental science, and four (4) years of professional experience in fish management or research, wildlife management or research, or habitat management or research.
Option 4: A Ph.D. in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, or environmental science, and three (3) years of professional experience in fish management or research, wildlife management or research, or habitat management or research.
Option 5: Nine (9) years of professional experience in fish management or research, wildlife management or research, or habitat management or research.
License: Valid automobile driver's license.
Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment:

• Residency - Must have the ability to arrive at the Natural Resources Building (in Olympia), ready to conduct extended field operations, within one (1) hour of notification while on rotation.
• Successful completion of the following courses: Incident Command System (ICS) 100, 200, 700 within the first 90 days of employment. ICS 300 is also required and needs to be successfully completed within one year of employment.
• Successful completion of the Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response Standard Program (HazWoper) 40-hour training within the first 90 days of employment. An annual 8-hour refresher is required.
• Successful completion of agency training and/or certification for assigned watercraft is dependent on supervisory direction, position need and training availability.
• WDFW flight safety training, within one year of employment and as mandated by WDFW PRO 2006.
• NOAA Science of Oil Spills training within one year of employment.
• NOAA Aerial Observation of Oil Spills within one year of employment.
• All other agency-required training as appropriate for this position.
• "Duty Officer" rotations - While serving as the team "Duty Officer," the position will need to restrict personal movements and behavior such that they remain capable of performing required duties outside of normal work hours, including weekends and holidays.

Preferred Qualifications:

In addition to the required qualifications, our ideal applicant will possess some or all the following:

• Knowledge of fish and wildlife biology and ecology (particularly of fish and wildlife species that are dependent on aquatic ecosystems).
• Knowledge of effects and risks of oil and hazardous substances on fish, wildlife, and habitats.
• Familiarity with spill response techniques and the Incident Command System.
• Knowledge of the capabilities and limitations of spill response technologies and their potential impacts on natural resources.
• Experience operating within a dynamic emergency environment, including making decisions that direct the activities of others.
• Familiarity with wildlife rehabilitation techniques (capture and rehabilitation).
• Use of Geographic Information System (GIS) software.
• Knowledge of the Hydraulic Code (RCW 77.55, WAC 220-660) and issuance of emergency HPAs.
• Communication: Effectively conveys ideas and information through the written and spoken word using language that is appropriate to both the complexity of the topic and the knowledge and understanding of the audience.

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 (3) professional references with current contact information.

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION:
In addition to and other , there are other 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:
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 Cheri.Potter@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
Other questions: If you have other questions regarding this position, please reach out to and reference job #2025-05565.
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More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.

We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.

Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.

Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.

Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.

Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.

To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.

Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.

Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.

The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.

Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.

Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.

Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.

Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.

Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.

Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.

Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.

Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.

Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.

Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

As provided in , an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.

Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.

Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.

Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.

Additional Leave
Leave Sharing

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 07-21-2025
01

Are you currently an employee of the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife? This includes permanent, non-permanent, intern, project, and career seasonal.

• Yes
• No

02

Do you have a valid driver's license?

• Yes, I have a current valid driver's license.
• No, I do not have a current valid driver's license.

03

Please select the option below that best describes the highest level of education you have completed.

• High School Diploma/GED.
• Some College.
• Vocational Degree or Certificate.
• Associate's Degree.
• Bachelor's Degree.
• Master's Degree.
• Ph.D.
• None of the above.

04

What is your major area of study? If you possess multiple degrees, please list each degree and major. (If this does not apply to you, please put N/A.) This includes both vocational and college education.
05

Select the option below that best describes your experience as a F&W Biologist 3, OR your professional experience in fish management or research, wildlife management or research, or habitat management or research.

• I do not have this experience.
• I have less than 1 year of this experience.
• I have between 1 year and 2 years of this experience.
• I have between 2 years and 3 years of this experience.
• I have between 3 years and 4 years of this experience.
• I have between 4 years and 5 years of this experience.
• I have between 5 years and 6 years of this experience.
• I have between 6 years and 7 years of this experience.
• I have between 7 years and 8 years of this experience.
• I have between 8 years and 9 years of this experience.
• I have 9 years or more of this experience.

06

Please list where you gained your experience as a F&W Biologist 3, OR your professional experience in fish management or research, wildlife management or research, or habitat management or research. Include the name of the organization(s) where you worked and dates of employment. FOR EXAMPLE: WDFW, F&W Biologist 3, 2020 - present. If you do not have this experience, enter "N/A" in the box below. Do not write "See application/resume/cover letter" as those are not valid responses.
07

The position requires the incumbent to arrive at the Natural Resources Building (NRB) in Olympia, Washington within one (1) hour of notification while on standby rotation. If selected for this position, are you able to fulfill this requirement?

• Yes, I am able to arrive at the NRB within 1 hour of notification.
• No, I will not be able to arrive at the NRB within 1 hour of notification.

08

Are you familiar with spill response techniques and the Incident Command System?

• Yes, I am familiar with these items.
• No, I am not familiar with these items.

09

Are you familiar with wildlife rehabilitation techniques (capture and rehabilitation)?

• Yes, I am familiar with wildlife rehabilitation techniques.
• No, I am not familiar with wildlife rehabilitation techniques.

10

Select the options below of which you possess knowledge. Select all that apply.

• Fish and wildlife biology and ecology (particularly of fish and wildlife species that are dependent on aquatic ecosystems).
• Effects and risks of oil and hazardous substances on fish, wildlife, and habitats.
• Capabilities and limitations of spill response technologies and their potential impacts on natural resources.
• Natural Resource Damage Assessment.
• Hydraulic Code (RCW 77.55, WAC 220-660) and issuance of emergency HPAs.

11

How did you hear about this job posting? (Select all that apply).

• American Fisheries Society (AFS)
• Careers.wa.gov
• Community Based Organization
• Community/Technical College
• Conservation Job Board
• El Informador
• Facebook
• Four W's Fishing Team, LLC - Willard Franklin III, LinkedIn
• Handshake
• Hiring Event/Workshop
• Indeed.com
• Job Board
• Job Fair
• LinkedIn
• MHCC - Mount Hood Community College
• Newspaper
• Other
• Other State Agency
• Other Website
• Professional Association
• Society of American Foresters (SAF)
• Texas A&M
• Twitter
• University Job Board
• UW College of the Environment
• WDFW Employee
• WDFW Recruiter
• WDFW Website
• Word of Mouth
• WorkSource

12

Tell us more - kindly share which website, organization, person, or other source led you to this job posting.
Required Question