Stream Habitat Survey Technician – Scientific Technician

  • Forestry, Land, Freshwater & Agriculture
  • Washington, USA

Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife

Salary: $3,477–$4,632 per month

Position Summary:
The Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife (WDFW) is seeking a Stream Habitat Survey Technician for a four-month appointment (June 2–October 2, 2025) to assist in salmonid population research within Intensively Monitored Watersheds (IMW) in Cowlitz County.

This full-time, non-permanent role involves data collection on fish habitat, assisting with fish population surveys, and supporting stream restoration research efforts.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Follow standardized protocols to collect fish habitat data in research streams.
  • Use GPS for navigation to previously sampled study sites.
  • Conduct stream mesohabitat classification and identify bankfull stage.
  • Measure wetted/bankfull widths, depths, and substrate samples.
  • Enumerate large woody debris and document juvenile/adult fish presence.
  • Ensure accuracy in daily data collection, error checking, and tabulation.
  • Support fish population surveys, capturing fish with electrofishing and seine nets.
  • Maintain survey equipment, vehicles, and camping sites.

Working Conditions:

  • Outdoor fieldwork (95%) in challenging terrain, varied weather, and remote settings.
  • Operate 4×4 vehicles on logging roads and carry up to 50 lbs of equipment.
  • Camping required for weekly assignments in IMW complexes.
  • Regular travel between watershed sites for sampling goals.

Schedule:

  • Monday–Thursday (10-hour shifts, 7:00 A.M.–6:00 P.M.).

Required Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or GED with:
    • Two years of experience as a Scientific Technician or
    • Two years of lab/field assistant experience in biology, chemistry, or zoology.
  • Valid driver’s license.
  • Ability to work independently in field research settings.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in biology, zoology, fisheries, chemistry, or natural sciences.
  • Experience with USEPA EMAP stream habitat survey methods.
  • Familiarity with Lower Columbia IMW streams.

Certifications & Special Requirements:

  • WDFW Swiftwater Awareness certification.
  • WDFW Cold Water Inland Training.
  • First Aid/CPR Training.
  • Personal Safety with the Public course completion.

Application Instructions:

Additional Information:
WDFW is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion and welcomes applications from individuals of all backgrounds.

Contact Information:
Name: Danielle Gustafson
Email: danielle.gustafson@dfw.wa.gov

To apply for this job please visit www.governmentjobs.com.