Invasive Species Specialist - Natural Resource Specialist 1 - Permanent - 2026-04102

State of Washington • Skagit County - Mt. Vernon, WA

3d • Onsite

About The Position

This role offers meaningful and lasting work for individuals who enjoy hands-on fieldwork, leading a crew in dynamic environments, and seeing the direct impact of their efforts on fish and wildlife habitat. As a Natural Resource Specialist 1, you’ll play a key part in managing noxious weeds and vegetation across wetlands, riparian areas, and other wildlands—primarily in Region 4. From operating specialized equipment in challenging terrain, to implementing integrated pest management (IPM) strategies and mapping treatment areas, your work will directly support the long-term health and sustainability of these landscapes.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree involving major study in a biological science or closely allied field.
• 3-6 months of professional experience in the detection, survey, control, or eradication of invasive species.
• Six (6) months of experience operating boats or airboats in marine environments.
• Valid driver’s license.

Nice To Haves

• Two (2) years of professional experience: Operating boats and airboats in marine environments.
• Operating amphibious tractors, mowers, drones, and other machinery.
• Applying herbicides.
• Trailering equipment.
• Maintaining and repairing equipment.
• Collecting data using GPS devices and using programs to map data.
• Using collected data and other information to write reports.
• Six (6) months of professional experience: Leading field crews to complete field projects.
• Wildlife research studies and applying scientific principles.
• Identifying and resolving complex or sensitive issues with crewmembers and supervisors.
• Performing basic mechanical/small engine repair.
• Applying foundational knowledge of biology and/or botany.
• Motorboat Operator Certification Course (MOCC).
• Pesticide Applicator's License with an aquatic endorsement.

Responsibilities

• Survey, control and eradication of noxious weeds and management of other vegetation using integrated pest management (IPM)
• Prioritize, plan, schedule, and lead a crew in the eradication of Spartina (RCW 17.26) and invasive cattail control efforts.
• Operate specialized equipment such as boats, airboats, tractors, All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs), drones, and amphibious tractors.
• Perform preventative maintenance such as oil changes, filter replacement, and pitching props.
• Conduct major repairs to airboats (e.g., replacing motors, alternators, props, drives, plastic bottoms) and Marshmaster/amphibious tractor (e.g., replacing drive motors and sprockets, changing bogey wheels, bogey tubes, tracks).
• Collect data using QuickCapture, Field Maps, GPS units, and agency weed applications.
• Upload treatment points to airboat-mounted plotters; collect and download treatment location and sampling files to ArcGIS.
• Use ArcGIS to map project areas and weed locations.
• Prepare reports summarizing weed management activities.
• Perform fieldwork approximately 60% of the time in intertidal areas of Puget Sound, working from boats and around water in all weather conditions.
• Navigate difficult terrain, including slippery rocks, steep banks, and muddy substrates.
• Frequently bend, stoop and lift/carry up to 40 pounds, with occasional loading and transport of gear exceeding 40 pounds.
• Work independently in remote locations.
• Operate and oversee the use and maintenance of small mechanical equipment (e.g., brush cutters) and chemical application equipment.
• Perform manual removal of seedlings and small clones by hand.
• Operate specialized equipment including 4-wheel drive trucks with trailers, amphibious tractors, airboats, motorboats, and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs).
• Regular interaction with other agencies and the public.
• Provide clear explanations of weed control activities and respond to questions regarding project goals and methods.

Benefits

• Additional 10% pay differential when the incumbent is a licensed spray operator while performing spray operator duties
• Eligible for other benefits that WDFW employees may be eligible for

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level