Job Details
Snowy Plover Biologist - Fish & Wildlife Biologist 1 - Non-Permanent
2026-01-17 State of Washington all cities,AK
Description:
Work setting: Work is primarily outdoors in a coastal marine climate with high levels of rainfall and inclement weather. May involve hiking over wet, rough, uneven or rocky surfaces over long distances. This position may involve working in or near water, including tasks that require navigating, negotiating, and performing duties related to water environments.
Schedule: Full-time, typically Monday - Friday, working 40 hours per week. The standard work schedule includes the potential for occasional evening or weekend work as needed. Schedules may vary based on business needs, time of year, and/or weather conditions.
Travel requirements: Regular daily travel within Pacific and Grays Harbor counties and limited overnight travel.
Customer Interactions: Regular interactions with beach users during snowy plover work.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Required Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in biology, zoology, or related field, or equivalent experience monitoring birds, nests, and field sampling.
And
Two (2) years or more of professional experience in/with:
One (1) year or more of professional experience in/with:
Preferred Qualifications:
In addition to the required qualifications, our ideal applicant will possess some or all the following:
Six (6) months or more of professional experience in/with:
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:
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-###-#### or email , or the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) at 800-###-####.
Technical Difficulties: If you are having technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application, please call NEOGOV toll-free at (855) ###-#### or
Other questions: If you have other questions regarding this position, please reach out to and reference job number/title from the top of this posting.
Follow us on social media:LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram
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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 01-07-2026
01
Are you currently an employee of the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife? This includes permanent, non-permanent, intern, project, and career seasonal.
02
Do you have a valid driver's license?
03
Please select the option below that best describes the highest level of education you have completed.
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
Which option best describes your experience monitoring birds, nests, and field sampling?
06
Please list where you gained your experience monitoring birds, nests, and field sampling. Include the name of the organization(s) where you worked and dates of employment. FOR EXAMPLE: WDFW, F&W Biologist, 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
Select the options below in which you possess AT LEAST two (2) years of professional experience. Select all that apply.
08
Select the options below in which you possess AT LEAST one (1) year of experience. Select all that apply.
09
Please list where you gained your experience monitoring birds and/or conducting bird field research, locating and monitoring bird nests, using spotting scopes and binoculars. Include the name of the organization(s) where you worked and dates of employment. FOR EXAMPLE: WDFW, F&W Biologist, 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.
10
Do you have at least six (6) months of monitoring snowy plovers or other shorebirds?
11
How did you hear about this job posting? (Select all that apply).
12
Tell us more - kindly share which website, organization, person, or other source led you to this job posting.
Required Question
Salary: $3,840.00 - $5,137.00 Monthly
Location : Grays Harbor County - Montesano, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Non-Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 2026-00483
Department: Dept. of Fish and Wildlife
Opening Date: 01/15/2026
Closing Date: 1/29/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
Description
Working Title- Snowy Plover Biologist
Classification- Fish & WildlifeBiologist 1
Job Status- Full-Time/Non-Permanent
Appointment/Season Length- 6.5 Months - March 1, 2026 - September 15, 2026
WDFW Program- Wildlife Program - Wildlife Diversity Division
Duty Station- *Montesano, Washington - Grays Harbor County
*While this position may offer a telework option, the successful candidate must be available to report to the duty station as needed.
Learn more about being a member of Team WDFW!
Photo Caption - Snowy Plover Nest - Photo Credit: Roy W. Lowe
Are you passionate about protecting State Endangered and Federally Threatened species?
This is an opportunity to educate beach users and local landowners through targeted and informal outreach.
We are seeking a candidate to assist with on-the-ground conservation actions related to the recovery and monitoring of Western Snowy Plovers in Pacific and Grays Harbor counties.
WHAT TO EXPECT -
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, this position will:
Monitor breeding snowy plovers and presence of threats to evaluate population size and nest and fledgling success through on-the-ground actions.
- Completing comprehensive surveys to determine presence and nesting status of individual snowy plovers across established and suitable nesting habitat.
- Assisting with population assessment surveys in coordination with WDFW staff and external partners, including state, federal, and tribal entities.
- Monitoring nests to determine hatching success or failure.
- Monitoring chicks to determine fledgling survival.
- Placing federally-issued color bands on chicks using appropriate capture and placement methods.
- Using binoculars and spotting scopes to read color leg bands.
- Monitoring and recording the presence of threats to plover nests and broods, such as the presence of avian and mammalian predators.
- Maintaining equipment and vehicle.
- Communicating regularly with WDFW and partners.
- Recording data in the field and after fieldwork activities.
- Entering field data into electronic databases and performing quality assurance checks.
- Coordinating regularly with WDFW research staff to ensure proper data collection methodologies.
- Working with external partners to collect and distribute weekly data summaries allowing for real-time management decisions.
- Summarizing data and coauthoring annual report.
- Placing and maintaining public symbolic signage as needed.
- Providing rapid and relevant information to land management agencies during the field season to help them protect nesting plovers from potential threats.
Work setting: Work is primarily outdoors in a coastal marine climate with high levels of rainfall and inclement weather. May involve hiking over wet, rough, uneven or rocky surfaces over long distances. This position may involve working in or near water, including tasks that require navigating, negotiating, and performing duties related to water environments.
Schedule: Full-time, typically Monday - Friday, working 40 hours per week. The standard work schedule includes the potential for occasional evening or weekend work as needed. Schedules may vary based on business needs, time of year, and/or weather conditions.
Travel requirements: Regular daily travel within Pacific and Grays Harbor counties and limited overnight travel.
Customer Interactions: Regular interactions with beach users during snowy plover work.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Required Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in biology, zoology, or related field, or equivalent experience monitoring birds, nests, and field sampling.
And
Two (2) years or more of professional experience in/with:
- Monitoring birds and/or conducting bird field research, locating and monitoring bird nests, using spotting scopes and binoculars.
- Principles, practices, and methods of environmental or resource management.
- Methods and techniques of field sampling.
- Collecting, managing, organizing, evaluating, and producing written summaries of data.
- Field investigations.
One (1) year or more of professional experience in/with:
- Wildlife population relationships and ecology.
- Wildlife habitat relationships.
- Wildlife management tools and field techniques.
- Personal computer hardware and software, smartphone, or tablet applications.
- Navigating using handheld GPS units.
Preferred Qualifications:
In addition to the required qualifications, our ideal applicant will possess some or all the following:
Six (6) months or more of professional experience in/with:
- Monitoring snowy plovers or other shorebirds.
- Banding birds, particularly shorebirds.
- Mark-resight field collection methodologies.
- Working alone in somewhat remote locations.
- 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.
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 ...@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-###-#### or email , or the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) at 800-###-####.
Technical Difficulties: If you are having technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application, please call NEOGOV toll-free at (855) ###-#### or
Other questions: If you have other questions regarding this position, please reach out to and reference job number/title from the top of this posting.
Follow us on social media:LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram
cp
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 01-07-2026
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
Which option best describes your experience monitoring birds, nests, and field sampling?
- I do not have this experience.
- I have less than 4 years of this experience.
- I have between 4 years and 6 years of this experience.
- I have 6 years or more of this experience.
06
Please list where you gained your experience monitoring birds, nests, and field sampling. Include the name of the organization(s) where you worked and dates of employment. FOR EXAMPLE: WDFW, F&W Biologist, 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
Select the options below in which you possess AT LEAST two (2) years of professional experience. Select all that apply.
- Monitoring birds and/or conducting bird field research, locating and monitoring bird nests, using spotting scopes and binoculars.
- Principles, practices, and methods of environmental or resource management.
- Methods and techniques of field sampling.
- Collecting, managing, organizing, evaluating, and producing written summaries of data.
- Field investigations.
08
Select the options below in which you possess AT LEAST one (1) year of experience. Select all that apply.
- Wildlife population relationships and ecology.
- Wildlife habitat relationships.
- Wildlife management tools and field techniques.
- Personal computer hardware and software, smartphone, or tablet applications.
- Navigating using handheld GPS units.
09
Please list where you gained your experience monitoring birds and/or conducting bird field research, locating and monitoring bird nests, using spotting scopes and binoculars. Include the name of the organization(s) where you worked and dates of employment. FOR EXAMPLE: WDFW, F&W Biologist, 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.
10
Do you have at least six (6) months of monitoring snowy plovers or other shorebirds?
- Yes, I have at least six (6) months of monitoring snowy plovers or other shorebirds.
- No, I do not have at least six (6) months of monitoring snowy plovers or other shorebirds.
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
- Four W's Fishing Team, LLC - Willard Franklin III, LinkedIn
- Handshake
- Hiring Event/Workshop
- Hydraulic Institute (HI)
- Indeed.com
- Job Board
- Job Fair
- Mount Hood Community College (MHCC)
- Newspaper
- Other
- Other State Agency
- Other Website
- Professional Association
- Society of American Foresters (SAF)
- Texas A&M
- University Job Board
- UW College of the Environment
- WDFW Employee
- WDFW Recruiter
- WDFW Website
- Word of Mouth
- WorkSource
- X (formerly Twitter)
12
Tell us more - kindly share which website, organization, person, or other source led you to this job posting.
Required Question