Fishery Sampler - Scientific Technician 2 - Non-Permanent - 4 Openings - 2026-03982

State of Washington•Multiple Locations Statewide, WA

5d•Onsite

About The Position

These positions play a vital role in monitoring recreational fisheries by collecting and summarizing catch data for salmon, marine fish, and shellfish in Puget Sound. Through field sampling at boat ramps across Marine Areas 5 through 13, you’ll gather key biological data, including stock composition, age structure, fish length, and hatchery or natural-origin status. This information supports accurate fisheries assessments and sustainable resource management.

Requirements

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 course work involving major study in biology, zoology, fisheries, chemistry, natural sciences, or closely allied field may substitute, year for year, for experience, provided the course work includes at least six (6) semester or nine (9) quarter hours of natural science classes.
Valid driver’s license.

Nice To Haves

Conducting creel surveys and sampling fisheries in Puget Sound or a similar area.
Identifying all salmon species and common Puget Sound marine fish and shellfish species.
Salmon life history and sport fishing regulations.
Commercial and sport fishing methods and gear.
Handling fish.
Working with members of the public.
Microsoft Office (e.g., Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams).

Responsibilities

Conduct sampling of recreational fisheries for salmon, halibut, marine fish, and shellfish to assess catch per unit of effort and species composition to obtain valid sport catch estimates.
Interview and sample recreational fishery anglers at assigned boat launch facilities.
Accurately record data using electronic or backup paper forms.
Identify and count all salmon and marine fish species.
Use electronic coded wire tag (CWT) detection devices to sample Coho and Chinook salmon.
Classify, sort, and count salmon based on adipose fin marks and tag presence.
Retrieve CWTs from Chinook and Coho salmon snouts for stock assessment in fisheries modeling.
Collect biological data from recreational and commercial salmon catches, including DNA samples, scales for aging, and other biological samples.
Conduct error checks on collected sampling data.
Provide sport fishing regulation and fish identification information to the public.
Report observed fishery violations to WDFW Enforcement and supervisor.
Operate and maintain agency vehicles as needed.
Maintain sampling equipment.
Use iForms, Microsoft Teams, and Outlook for daily communication and reporting.