Research Vessel Captain (Scientific Technician 4, Non-Permanent)

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is hiring a Research Vessel Captain (Scientific Technician 4, non-permanent) to operate research vessels and lead at-sea sampling operations across Puget Sound. The position is full-time, non-permanent (one-year appointment), 40 hours per week, based in Port Townsend (Jefferson County) or Mill Creek (Snohomish County), Washington. Weeks with multi-day vessel trips typically exceed 40 hours per week and days may exceed 10 hours. Up to 50 percent of time may be spent travelling for vessel-related fieldwork. The position is in the bargaining unit represented by the Washington Association of Fish and Wildlife Professionals.

The Research Vessel Captain safely operates WDFW research vessels in Puget Sound waters; leads pre-trip planning including weather, navigation, and safety briefings; supervises deck operations and at-sea sampling; coordinates with field biologists on station setup, gear deployment, and recovery; maintains vessels, trailers, and gear in safe operating condition; and ensures compliance with USCG, WDFW, and agency safety policies. The role also supports planning for multi-day trips, lodging logistics, and coordination with partner agencies and ports along the route.

Additional responsibilities include training crew and scientific staff in safe vessel operations; supporting safe trailer launches and retrievals; conducting routine and preventative maintenance; keeping required logs; supporting incident response and reporting; and contributing to continuous improvement of the WDFW vessel operations programme. The Captain works closely with biologists, technicians, and Marine Operations leadership to deliver high-quality fisheries and habitat data from Puget Sound.

Required qualifications include a USCG Master 50 GRT Near Coastal (or higher) credential or the ability to obtain one within an agreed timeframe; significant experience operating vessels in Puget Sound or similar inland waters; the ability to safely tow and launch trailerable boats; comfort working long days in variable weather; strong communication and leadership skills; and a willingness to travel for multi-day trips. Experience supporting fisheries, habitat, or research operations is desirable. Reference job number 2026-04246 when applying.

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Original posting: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/washington/jobs/4544246