Job Description

Salary: $5,928.00 - $7,973.00 Monthly
Location : Multiple Locations - Western Washington, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number: 2026-07259
Department: Dept. of Fish and Wildlife
Opening Date: 08/31/2026
Closing Date: 9/10/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

Description
Title- Waterfowl Survey & Sea Duck Specialist

Classification- Fish and Wildlife Biologist 4

Job Status- Full-Time - Permanent WDFW Program- Wildlife Program Duty Station- This position may be based in either Olympia, Washington, or Stanwood, Washington, depending on the successful candidate.

Please note- This position is eligible for an additional 15% pay differential when the incumbent is performing flight duties as noted in the duties listed below.
Learn more about being a member of Team WDFW !
Photo Caption: Wood Ducks in Sharpe Pond Park - Photo Credit: Bill Hebner
The WDFW Waterfowl Section advances natural resource conservation by monitoring waterfowl populations, conducting research, and translating findings into effective management and policy.
In this position, you will shape conservation strategies, communicate research findings, and lead biologists and technical staff in efforts to sustain healthy waterfowl populations and the habitats they depend on.
What to Expect-

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Waterfowl Survey & Sea Duck Specialist will,
Design and implement study and survey protocols to determine waterfowl status and harvest:

• Plan and coordinate statewide aerial surveys to collect data on waterfowl abundance, distribution, habitat use, and productivity.
• Evaluate aerial survey methods and recommend improvements to increase data quality and efficiency.
• Plan and conduct vessel-based surveys to monitor marine waterfowl populations, habitat use, and distribution.
• Operate or oversee operation of research vessels in support of biological surveys, ensuring safe and effective field operations.
• Direct, develop, and manage data collection, research, and report writing for statewide breeding waterfowl pairs, brood production, winter status surveys, sea duck and marine waterfowl ecology, population, biology and demography, population structure and delineation, habitat associations and foraging and trophic interactions.

Compile and analyze scientific literature and data to inform waterfowl management activities:

• Maintain and update historic statewide sea duck databases for inventory and harvest.
• Compile and coordinate submission of Western Washington banding schedules for the statewide banding permit.

Prepare professional reports and presentations to communicate findings to stakeholders, managers and decision makers about waterfowl management, status, trends, and research:

• Prepare annual statewide sea duck project reports.

Suggest or recommend decisions and options to conserve waterfowl and wetland resources to Waterfowl Section Manager:

• Make policy and program recommendations as completed staff work to ensure waterfowl and wetland resources are adequately considered in multiple-resource management.

Develop plans and procedures to implement policies for conservation and improvement of waterfowl habitat:

• Provide technical expertise and analysis for evaluating migratory bird stamp/artwork proposals and in the development of expenditure plans.
• Develop proposals and write grants to support waterfowl/wetland habitat and research from external funding sources,

Working Conditions:
Work setting, including hazards:

• Field work (~65%)
  • Field work can vary depending on season and requires working outdoors during inclement weather, including travel to and from field sites.
  • Field surveys are conducted by helicopter, fixed-wing aircraft, vehicle, marine vessels (Class A, I, and II) and on foot.
  • Aerial surveys are conducted at low-level, over water and land.
  • Vessel surveys and captures are conducted during all seasons and will include inclement weather.
  • Work on foot in the field includes walking over rough terrain while carrying light to moderate loads.
  • Captures on rivers include wading in moving riverine waters.
  • This position may involve working in or near water, including tasks that require navigating, negotiating, and performing duties related to water environments.
• Office Work (~35%)
  • Office hazards may include working under fluorescent light, repetitively entering data into computer, looking at computer monitor sitting or standing for extended periods of time.

Schedule: Typically, Monday - Friday from 8:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M. and may be expected to adjust the work schedule to meet business needs. A flexible work schedule will be considered at the incumbent's request, subject to supervisory approval.
Travel Requirements: Periodic statewide or regional travel is required, dependent upon meeting time sensitive field work and project needs.
Tools and Equipment: Project equipment and tools, including aerial survey gear, boats (Class A, I, and II), and capture equipment. Rocket netting, at-sea captures, mist nets, and net guns for the safe capture of migratory birds
Customer Interactions: Frequent contact with other agency staff, cooperators and periodic interaction with the public.
Required Qualifications:
Option 1: All the following (experience may be gained concurrently):

• Bachelor's degree in wildlife management, conservation biology, wildlife ecology, natural resources science, or a related field.

• Five (5) years of professional experience in wildlife management or wildlife research, with an emphasis on waterfowl species expertise.

• Two (2) years of demonstrated knowledge of and professional experience with:
  • Waterfowl survey, monitoring, and research techniques.
  • Waterfowl captures and handling techniques in at least one of the following - freshwater, estuary or marine environments.
  • Collecting, recording, and managing biological data during aerial or boat survey operations.

Option 2: Four (4) years of professional experience as a Fish & Wildlife Biologist 2 (or higher) predominately working with waterfowl species.
Please Note:

• A Master's degree in an applicable field of study may substitute for one (1) year of the required experience provided the field of major study was in wildlife science, wildlife management, or similar natural resource-related field related to species expertise.
• A PhD. in an applicable field of study may substitute for two (2) years of the required experience provided the field of major study was in wildlife science, wildlife management, or similar natural resource-related field related to species expertise.

Certifications/Licenses:
Valid Driver's License.
Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment:

The following are agency facilitated/provided:

• Certification to participate in aerial flight surveys within 12 months of employment.
• Motorboat Operator Training Course (MOTC) certification (scheduled to be obtained within 12 months of hire if the incumbent has not yet completed this training).
• Ability to obtain subpermittee status on station with US Geological Surveys (USGS) Federal Bird Banding Laboratory permit within six (6) months of hire.

Preferred Qualifications:

In addition to the required qualifications, our ideal applicant will possess one or more of the following:
Prior or current subpermittee status on a Federal Bird Banding Laboratory permit.
Certification/License:

• Successful completion of a Motorboat Operator Training Course (or equivalent).
• Successful completion of an Aviation Egress Course (or equivalent).

Experience:

• Safely operating motor vehicles.
• Operating boats in marine environments (Class A, I, and II).
• Navigating and independently conducting aerial bird surveys from helicopter and fixed-wing platforms, including more than 500 flight hours.
• Lead and coordinate efforts of scientific expert teams in research, monitoring, and planning projects.

Knowledge of:

• Ecology and biology, species distributions, and habitat associations of freshwater and marine waterfowl species of Washington, particularly sea duck species.
• Contract development and administration.
• Mathematical reasoning and understanding of statistical methods and study design.
• Negotiating management agreements with stakeholders and landowners.
• Advance knowledge of specific species and habitat behaviors, characteristics and needs.
• Researching and gathering information for scientific studies.
• Advanced computer skills for modeling and forecasting.

Ability to:

• Identify duck, goose, and swan species, including the classification of the species, sex, and age of individuals for monitoring and analysis purposes.
• Identify and prioritize key research and monitoring need for sea ducks identified as Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN) conservation and recovery.
• Conduct effective oral presentations at scientific conferences, agency meetings, and public meetings.
• Write, edit, and publish professional documents and reports.
• Produce GIS products, including sharing databases and map products.
• Coach and mentor staff to maximize success on the job.
• Willingness to perform and lead aerial and boat surveys.
• Visually identify and distinguish biological and physical features.

Your application must include the following:

• 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 professional references with current contact information.

Supplemental 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
• 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 [click to reveal phone number]360-902-2278 or email [click to reveal email address] Jayme.Chase@dfw.wa.gov , or the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) at 800-833-6388.
Technical Difficulties: If you are having technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application, please call NEOGOV toll-free at [click to reveal phone number](855) 524-5627 or .
Other questions: If you have other questions regarding this position, please reach out to and reference job #2026-07259.
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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.

• 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

Do you have four (4) years of professional experience as a Fish & Wildlife Biologist 2 (or higher) predominately working with waterfowl species.

• Yes
• No

06

Select the option below that best describes your professional experience in wildlife management or wildlife research, with an emphasis on waterfowl species expertise.

• No experience
• Less than 3 years of experience
• Between 3 - 4 years of experience
• Between 4 - 5 years of experience
• Between 5 - 9 years of experience
• 9 years or more of experience

07

Please briefly describe your professional experience in wildlife management or wildlife research, with an emphasis on waterfowl species expertise. ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).
08

Select the option(s) below if you have at least two (2) years of demonstrated knowledge of AND professional experience with the following. Select all that apply.

• Waterfowl survey, monitoring, and research techniques.
• Waterfowl captures and handling techniques in at least one of the following - freshwater, estuary or marine environments.
• Collecting, recording, and managing biological data during aerial or boat survey operations.
• None of the above.

09

Select the option(s) below if you have the following certifications. Select all that apply.

• Motorboat Operator Training Course (or equivalent).
• Aviation Egress Course (or equivalent).
• None of the above

10

Do you have experience operating boats in marine environments such as Class A, I, and II?

• Yes
• No

11

Have you ever been a subpermittee on a Federal Bird Banding Laboratory permit?

• Currently - I am currently listed as a subpermittee.
• Previously - I was previously listed as a subpermittee.
• Banded under a station permit - I have banded birds under a station permit but have never been listed as a subpermittee.
• Never - I have never banded under a Federal Bird Banding Laboratory permit.

12

Please briefly describe your supervisory/leadership experience. In your response include any experience leading and coordinating efforts of scientific expert teams in research, monitoring, and planning projects. ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).
13

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
• Facebook
• Four W's Fishing Team, LLC - Willard Franklin III, LinkedIn
• Handshake
• Hiring Event/Workshop
• Indeed.com
• Job Board
• Job Fair
• LinkedIn
• MHCC - Mount Hood Community College
• Newspaper
• Other
• Other State Agency
• Other Website
• Professional Association
• Society of American Foresters (SAF)
• Texas A&M
• Twitter
• University Job Board
• UW College of the Environment
• WDFW Employee
• WDFW Recruiter
• WDFW Website
• Word of Mouth
• WorkSource

14

Tell us more - kindly share which website, organization, person, or other source led you to this job posting.
Required Question

Job Tags

Permanent employment, Full time, Contract work, Part time, Internship, Seasonal work, Work at office, Monday to Friday, Flexible hours, Shift work

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