King County Hiring for Summer Stream Team

The King County Department of Natural Resources, Water and Land Resources Division anticipates hiring six temporary seasonal staff to assist with summer/early fall field sampling work. This position is in the Lakes, Streams, Sound, and Ground Unit, within the Science and Technical Support Section. Staff in this position will be responsible for providing short-term support to the Stream Benthic Macroinvertebrate Monitoring Program. The work involves collecting benthic macroinvertebrate samples (aquatic insects and other organisms) from over 200 streams throughout King County, as well as collection of detailed field site information to document in-stream and riparian habitat conditions. Staff work independently in teams of two. The work is physically strenuous and access to some sampling sites requires hiking up to a mile through dense vegetation with bulky and heavy (~ 40 lbs.) sampling equipment. A small portion of the position will include data entry and data management to ensure that field data are accurately entered into the appropriate databases. The position may also provide support to other natural resource focused projects as needed and as time allows.

The position duration is approximately 3 to 4 months, starting June 23rd and ending at the end of September to mid-October. At the end of the season, there may also be an opportunity to provide support to other natural resource projects as needed and as time allows either by telecommuting or at various work sites throughout King County. King County will provide all necessary personal field gear (waders, safety equipment, etc.), a computer, and a vehicle to travel from downtown to field sampling locations. View the original job posting here.

Position Details

Work Schedule

The work schedule for the Seasonal Environmental Aide (Short Term Temporary) will typically be Monday through Thursday, 7:00 am to 5:30 pm, 40 hours per week. You must be able to commit to working 40 hours a week during the entire period to be eligible for consideration. This is an overtime eligible position that is subject to the provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act. Work outside of business hours may be required.

Work location

This position will report to King Street Center (201 S. Jackson St, Seattle WA 98104) daily and from there travel to sampling sites throughout King County. Staff may occasionally be required to telework from home when not collecting samples.

Hourly Rate: $23.88/hour

Primary Duties Include:

  • Conduct field work in streams throughout King County, following established scientific protocols, to collect macroinvertebrate samples and habitat data.
  • Work collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Take thorough and accurate field notes.
  • Help with logistical preparations and coordination for field sampling, including contacting private landowners to gain property access and maintaining field equipment.
  • Enter data and perform other routine computer-based tasks.
  • Provide support for a variety of other natural resources related projects as needed.

Skills and Qualifications

The Ideal Candidate Will Have the Following Competencies:

  • Manages complexity – Makes sense of complex, high quantity, and sometimes contradictory information to effectively solve problems.
  • Decision Quality – Makes sound and timely decisions, even in the absence of complete information.
  • Collaborates – Builds partnerships and collaborates with others to meet shared objectives.
  • Situational adaptability – Adapts approach and demeanor in real time to match the shifting demands of different situations.
  • Action Oriented – Takes on new opportunities and tackles challenges with a sense of urgency, high energy, and enthusiasm.

Required Skills

  • Ability to work collaboratively in a team situation, sometimes under challenging outdoor conditions.
  • Ability to work independently, take initiative and make sound judgment calls to protect personal and team safety (e.g., in dangerous weather or wildlife conditions).
  • Proven track record of taking and following directions from supervisors or team leads.
  • Knowledge and interest in aquatic/stream ecology and biological/environmental monitoring.
  • Familiarity with commonly used computer software (Microsoft Teams, Microsoft Office, including Excel, Word).
  • Demonstrated interest and enthusiasm to work outdoors in a range of weather and field conditions.
  • Strong attention to detail.
  • Ability to read a map and effectively navigate in both rural and urban areas to accurately locate field sampling locations without the aid of a cell phone.
  • Ability to swim (First Aid and CPR training will be provided).
  • Must have a valid WA driver’s license.

Desired Skills

  • Experience with in-stream and habitat data collection.
  • Experience using ArcGIS or ArcGIS Pro.

Application and Selection Process

Application materials will be screened for clarity, completeness, and responsiveness to the list of qualifications, skills, and abilities. The most competitive candidates may be invited to participate in one or more panel interviews. Applications without the following required materials will not be considered for this position.

  • Resume
  • Cover Letter detailing your background and what you can bring to this position

Please submit your resume, along with a cover letter of interest describing how you meet the job requirements and why you would be a great candidate for this position by March 10, 2025 to Kate Macneale at kate.macneale@kingcounty.gov.

The sampling work is strenuous and accessing some sampling sites requires hiking up to a mile through dense vegetation with bulky and heavy sampling equipment. A basic physical examination is required before employment.

For any questions, please contact:

For more information about the macroinvertebrate monitoring program, please check out these links:


Xerxes Society Hiring Conservation Biologist

The Xerxes Society for Invertebrate Conservation is hiring an Endangered Species Conservation Biologist. Reporting to the Xerces Society’s Endangered Species Program Freshwater Mussel Lead (Portland, OR office) and working in collaboration with partner agencies and organizations, the Endangered Species Conservation Biologist will focus on a variety of projects related to aquatic invertebrates, especially freshwater mussel, research, conservation, and advocacy. The Endangered Species Conservation Biologist will conduct substantial fieldwork involving snorkeling and wading in rivers and streams, requiring frequent but seasonal overnight and remote travel, with the majority of fieldwork from May-September each year. The successful candidate must be able to wade and swim safely in streams, lakes and rivers, walk over uneven terrain, carry 30 pounds using a backpack and be comfortable working long hours in the field as part of a team. Successful candidates will be required to pass an in-water safety training upon hiring. The successful candidate must also be able to work autonomously, organize and deliver training events, write scientific, management, or conservation-related documents, develop communications materials for the public, manage and analyze data, and work collaboratively with Xerces staff and partners. The successful candidate must be comfortable managing multiple projects and responsibilities, be detail-oriented, and have excellent communication skills. The ability to work collaboratively and build lasting conservation partnerships with diverse groups of people will be crucial to the candidate’s success.

Overview

Job Title: Endangered Species Conservation Biologist

Location: Based in Pacific Northwest, preferably NW Oregon or SW Washington

Compensation: $62,857 per year

Status: Full-time, regular position scheduled to work approximately 40 hrs/wk

Job Start Date: Approximate start date April 2025

Application Deadline: February 24, 2025

Essential Job Functions and Responsibilities

Working as a team with the Xerces Society Endangered Species Program staff, the applicant who fills this position will:

During the field season (approximately May – September):

  • Spend Monday through Thursday of most weeks conducting fieldwork (i.e., routine multi-day and routine overnight travel);
  • Routinely snorkel, wade, or boat in rivers and streams of variable sizes to collect data using digital tools or paper data forms. Fieldwork will also include supporting other conservation efforts such as monitoring water quality, conducting freshwater mussel salvages, or conducting survival studies;
  • Deliver trainings to other professionals at oftentimes remote field locations;
  • Conduct outreach to the general public;
  • Manage work under multiple field-based projects simultaneously, maintaining a high degree of professionalism with Xerces staff and partners, including working with seasonal staff.

Throughout the year:

  • Maintain regular communication with a remotely based supervisor, including collaborating via digital tools such as Google Drive and virtual meeting platforms;
  • Coordinate and deliver presentations and respond to requests for information from Xerces Society team members, natural resource agencies, researchers, and the public;
  • Manage databases and datasets, and analyze, map and report on data collected and work conducted during the field season and through other desktop projects;
  • Complete writing projects including project reports, scientific papers, blogs, and social media materials;
  • Contribute to strategic conservation planning efforts with Xerces staff and partner organizations, including attending meetings, conducting literature reviews, reviewing documents and providing comments, and developing projects and plans;
  • Manage multiple projects simultaneously with attention to detail;
  • Engage in other endangered species research, education, outreach, restoration, and conservation projects and campaigns.

Knowledge, Skills, and Experience

Required

  • Experience conducting aquatic fieldwork in remote locations and an ability to work in inclement conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and around biting or stinging insects or other environmental hazards
  • Ability to follow policies that promote a safe working environment, including making informed, collaborative judgement calls in changing environments
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to work independently
  • Project management expertise
  • Proficiency with common software applications and ESRI’s ArcGIS application

Preferred

  • Experience with and knowledge of freshwater mussels and/or other aquatic invertebrates (training will also be provided to the successful candidate)
  • Experience snorkeling and open water swimming
  • Database management skills
  • Understanding of regional aquatic conservation issues

Qualifications

Required

  • A Bachelor’s degree in fisheries, ecology, wildlife biology, biology, natural resource management, entomology, or related field (graduate degree preferred) with at least 1 year of professional experience in biological research or conservation.
  • Valid driver’s license in the United States and a motor vehicle records check allowing employee to be insured under Xerces corporate liability insurance. Offer of employment is contingent on this record check.
  • Current U.S. work authorization.

Preferred

  • Master’s degree in a field listed above
  • At least two years of professional experience in biological research or conservation
  • Wilderness first aid or swift-water rescue certifications

Learn more and apply here.


NOAA Explorer-in-Training Program Application Now Open

NOAA Ocean Exploration is excited to announce that the application for the 2025 Explorer-in-Training program is now open!

This year, the Explorer-in-Training program will feature two paid internship options: (a) 10-week, summertime opportunities and (b) 2-4 week expedition-based opportunities. The 10-week internships provide students an opportunity to develop their skills and knowledge through long-term projects supported by mentors in NOAA Ocean Exploration and partner organizations. The 2-4 week expedition-based internships involve participation in NOAA Ocean Exploration-supported expeditions aboard NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer supporting seafloor mapping operations, giving participants the chance to contribute to mission efforts while gaining tangible skills that can benefit their future pursuits. Internship themes available in 2025 are listed below, and additional details may be found on the Explorer-in-Training webpage. Applicants may only apply for one internship theme per year.

Internship Themes

  • Midwater ROV Annotations (10-week summer internship)
  • Emerging Technologies/eDNA (10-week summer internship)
  • Maritime Heritage Communications (10-week summer internship)
  • Science and Native Hawaiian Cultural Communications (10-week summer internship)
  • Ocean Mapping (2-4 week expedition-based internship)

Eligibility

  • U.S. citizenship
  • Must be at least 18 years of age by internship or expedition start date
  • Students (undergraduate or graduate) who are currently enrolled in or recently graduated (within one year of graduation date) from an accredited academic institution
  • Degree, major, or intent to major in a field relevant to NOAA Ocean Exploration’s mission, including but not limited to: STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) fields, social sciences, communications, education, business operations/administration, and ocean policy/management
  • Willingness to learn and follow office policies and/or shipboard standard operating procedures
  • Clearance of a Special Agreement Check (SAC) upon acceptance into the program
  • Valid U.S. Passport (2-4 week, expedition-based ocean mapping internship only)

How to Apply

Submit online application form on the Explorer-in-Training webpage, including the following:

  • Current resume or curriculum vitae (maximum 2 pages). If you have never created a resume or CV before, see resources and guidance from the Purdue Online Writing Lab.
  • Required short answer response to each of the following prompts:
    1. Tell us where you are in your academic/professional path, and how ocean exploration fits with your long-term career and educational goals. (Maximum 250 words)
    2. The Explorer-in-Training program is intended to be an experiential learning opportunity. For the internship theme you are applying for, what specifically interests you in the opportunity and what skills and/or experiences are you hoping to gain? (Maximum 250 words)
    3. Describe a situation when you had to overcome a challenge or step outside of your comfort zone. How did you get through it and what did you learn? (Maximum 250 words)
    4. NOAA Ocean Exploration is committed to advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. Tell us about your journey and how you would like to contribute to NOAA Ocean Exploration’s goal of creating a more diverse global pool of talent engaged in deep ocean exploration. (Maximum 500 words)
    5. The following question is required for applicants to the 10-week Science and Native Hawaiian Cultural Communications internship only: Explain how you hope that your passion for and familiarity with Native Hawaiian culture, knowledge, and language will connect to local and indigenous communities through this role. (Maximum 250 words)
  • Contact information for at least one professional reference (professor, advisor, work supervisor, mentor, etc.). References should be able to speak to your character and your professional and/or academic background.

Application Deadlines

Applications for the 10-week summer internship opportunities will be accepted until January 31, 2025. Applications for the 2-4 week expedition-based ocean mapping internship will be accepted on a rolling basis, with a priority deadline of January 31, 2025. After this priority deadline, applications will still be accepted until all slots are filled for the 2025 field season.

Please visit the Explorer-in-Training webpage for more details. For questions and additional information, or if you experience technical difficulties, please contact NOAA Ocean Exploration Internship Program Coordinator at oer.internships@noaa.gov. The Explorer-in-Training program is administered in partnership with the Cooperative Program for the Advancement of Earth System Science (CPAESS), a community program of the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research (UCAR).


Marine Landscape Ecology Lab Hiring Undergraduate Intern

Through funding provided by the Oceankind Foundation, the Marine Landscape Ecology Lab supports the paid participation of one undergraduate intern each summer. The intern will support projects focused on the mapping of sea lion communities in California, and rocky intertidal communities in British Columbia, California, and Washington. A $6,000 stipend is provided as part of the student’s participation.

Requirements:

  • Be a University of Washington undergraduate student enrolled in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) degree program. Examples of eligible degree programs include, but are not limited to, Aquatic and Fishery Science, Biology, Computer Science, Marine Biology, and Oceanography.
  • Have course and/or work-related experience with R, GIS, and data management.
  • Have a valid passport and be eligible for entry into Canada.
  • Have the capacity to attain an FAA part 107 commercial drone pilot license prior to summer 2025.
  • Have availability from June-August 2025.

Applications should include a no more than 2-page statement of interest, 2-page CV and unofficial copies of transcripts. Applications and questions can be sent to marlel@uw.edu.

Applications due February 21, 2025.

 


Halibut Bycatch Reduction Project hiring Undergraduate Student Assistant

Reducing Pacific halibut (Hippoglossus stenolepis) bycatch in the Pacific cod (Gadus macrocephalus) bottom trawl fishery

We are looking to hire a junior or senior undergraduate student to assist in the development of a Bycatch Reduction Performance Indicator (BPI) as part of a NOAA-sponsored halibut bycatch reduction device (BRD) project. The student will conduct/assist in up to three tasks: literature review, BPI development, and BRD scoring.

Background

A BPI will be developed to evaluate and compare BRDs previously tested and/or used in the Bering Sea Pacific cod trawl fishery. Indicators are used to convert both qualitative and quantitative data into a summary metric that can be used to guide decision-making in the application of BRDs. The approach proposed in this project is new for assessing BRDs but there is precedent for the development and application of indicator assessment tools. Indicators have also been developed for other fisheries-related issues including overfishing, spatial fisheries management, and comparison of management strategies.

Results of the assessment will enable us to evaluate the efficacy of BRDs that could be used in the Pacific cod trawl fishery and those that warrant further evaluation at early (e.g., design), mid (e.g., testing at a flume tank), or later (e.g., field trials) stages of development and implementation. This analysis will demonstrate how a BPI can be used to evaluate BRDs and identify the most important BRD attributes for considerations in adoption within the cod fishery.

Required Skills

  • Familiarity with literature searches using scientific search engines and bibliographic
    databases
  • Familiarity with Excell spreadsheets
  • Course background in fish biology and/or behavior
  • Organized with great attention to detail

Position Details

  • Time commitment: 10 – 15 hours per week
  • Wage: $21.57 per hour
  • Appointment duration: Winter and Spring Quarters 2025

To Apply

Please send Dr. John Horne (jhorne@uw.edu) an electronic package containing a letter of interest, unofficial transcript, and a CV/resume that indicates relevant experience.

Packages received on or before January 31, 2025 will receive full consideration.


Wood Lab Recruiting for Summer REU

The Wood Lab at the University of Washington seeks to hire three undergraduates for a 9-week Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) internship to take place between June and August of 2025. We anticipate hiring one undergraduate from the University of Washington and two who attend other universities. The position is supported by a CAREER award from the National Science Foundation for a project entitled, “Reconstructing parasite abundance in river ecosystems over the past half century.” The students hired into this position will have the opportunity to be at the forefront of a new sub-discipline: the historical ecology of parasitism.

Each student will:

  • Conduct lab work as part of a large team (i.e., parasitological dissections conducted at the University of New Mexico’s Museum of Southwestern Biology in Albuquerque, New Mexico)
  • Learn about aquatic ecosystems of the US Southwest region through two field trips
  • Conduct an independent research project under the supervision of multiple research mentors
  • Collaborate with an international group of senior parasite ecologists and ichthyologists
  • Engage with local elementary-level STEM learners through a program designed to bring parasite biodiversity learning modules into Albuquerque-area schools
  • Be among the first to publish using a novel, powerful tool for understanding why and how parasite communities shift in response to global change

The ideal candidate will:

  • be enrolled as an undergraduate at the University of Washington or another US university
  • have taken courses in ecology
  • be interested in the field of ecology and in conducting scientific research
  • demonstrate curiosity
  • adopt a rigorous and scholarly approach to science, with evidence of this from previous coursework
  • be a respectful, professional, and generous team player
  • have a positive attitude in the face of obstacles or setbacks
  • have excellent time management skills; accomplish goals by creating realistic but ambitious plans and initiating open communication when plans need to be adjusted
  • have the willingness and the courage to discuss issues openly (i.e., to give and receive feedback, to celebrate successes, and to discuss ways to overcome challenges)
  • Bonus points for folks who have taken courses in statistics or parasitology (although these are by no means required).
  • Note that no previous research experience is required!
  • We are hiring on the basis of potential, not necessarily experience. We are especially interested in students who have had to overcome obstacles to pursue their professional goals. We encourage applications from individuals who are members of groups that are historically underrepresented in the sciences, including students who are persons of color, female, first-generation college students, veterans, LGBTQIA, and students with disabilities. We welcome applicants of any race, color, religion, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age, or veteran status.

Eligibility restrictions:

  • You may not be enrolled in online classes during the course of your internship, so please do not apply if you are planning to be enrolled in any online course between 15 June and 16 August 2025.
  • You must be available for the entire duration of this internship in order to be eligible, so please do not apply if you have other commitments between 15 June and 16 August 2025.

Each intern will receive:

  • Round-trip travel to Albuquerque, NM (if not already located in the area)
  • A stipend of $7,000 (one half to be paid at the beginning of the internship, one half to be paid at the halfway point)
  • Free lodging in Albuquerque for the period of the internship (15 June through 16 August 2025)
  • Free meals for the period of the internship (15 June through 16 August 2025)
  • Support to attend a scientific conference, where each intern will present results from their independent research project after the internship concludes

To apply for this position, please reach out to Dr. Chelsea Wood at chelwood@uw.edu. In your e-mail, please include:

  • a letter of intent, including:
    • at least one paragraph on your professional goals and interests
    • at least one paragraph on why you are a good candidate for this position
    • name, phone number, and e-mail address for at least two individuals who can comment on your qualifications
  • a CV or resume
  • a transcript (unofficial transcript is fine)

From the individuals who reach out using the approach above, Dr. Wood will select a subset of candidates to move on to the next stage of consideration, which will be an interview (in person for UW applicants, via Zoom for other applicants). For full consideration, please submit your application before Friday, 21 February.


Pacific Hybreed Hiring Hatchery Technician

Pacific Hybreed, Inc. (www.pacifichybreed.com) is revolutionizing shellfish aquaculture through an innovative genetic breeding program. By integrating genetic research with environmental field data, we increase yield and resilience of Pacific oysters and Manila clams against the challenges of climate change and emerging diseases.

Pacific Hybreed operates hatcheries at NOAA Manchester Research Station in Port Orchard, WA and the Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaiian Authority (NELHA) in Kona, HI. We are seeking a technician to fill a critical position responsible for hatchery operations and projects focused on microalgae and shellfish breeding and production.

Compensation and Benefits:

  • $22-$25/h
  • Benefits include medical, dental, and vision
  • Paid time off is accrued at 2 hours per 40 hours worked; equals 13 days annually based on average of 40 hours per week
  • Position requires some evening and weekend shifts

Job Description:

Performance of day-to-day operations including:

  • Upkeep of filtration and water delivery systems.
  • Transfer and sterile inoculation of multiple microalgal species from scale of small jugs to carboys and larger systems; record keeping using particle-counter.
  • Husbandry of shellfish (larval and seed stages): water changes, feeding, size-grading, microscopy imaging and counting.
  • Support field work operations through gear maintenance and data collection.
  • Assistance in experimental research: measurements of survival and growth of species and organized detailed record-keeping in spreadsheets, drives, and ImageJ.
  • Routine maintenance of chemical solutions following standard operating procedures.
  • Basic plumbing, screen-making, and pvc projects.
  • Maintain daily and long-term records of temperature, pH, chlorophyll.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with algae, larval culturing, or microbiology.
  • Experience maintaining sterile cultures: proper use of flame, ethanol, bleach, and acid cleaning techniques.
  • Basic skills and safety with tools, chemicals, plumbing, electricity, and construction.
  • Confidence with arithmetic and Microsoft Excel.
  • Able to lift 50lbs, repeatedly at times.
  • Work independently and proactively.
  • Strong communication, time management, and organizational skills.
  • Troubleshooting and on-the-spot problem solving.
  • Interest to learn scientific and technical info relevant to shellfish breeding and genetics.

How to Apply:

Please send your resume and an email introducing yourself to Olivia Carlson, Hatchery Manager: olivia@pacifichybreed.com


King County Hiring Salmon Study Monitoring Staff

The King County Department of Natural Resources, Water and Land Resources Division seeks a seasonal Environmental Aide to assist with environmental monitoring and applied studies that support salmon recovery efforts. This position is in the Watershed and Ecological Assessment Team within the Science and Technical Support Section. The position will primarily support an experimental study of juvenile salmon growth and diet, along with a study of juvenile salmon use of tributary streams. This position may also assist with fish sampling and aquatic habitat monitoring of salmon habitat restoration projects in local rivers and streams. Other duties may include fish exclusion for project construction and kokanee salmon conservation. This work will inform our salmon recovery actions in the future. Staff work independently and in teams with experienced fish ecologists. This role is primarily field-based but will also involve data entry and other office-based tasks. This position would be a good opportunity for a college student or recent graduate or someone interested in gaining experience in aquatic ecology.

Position Details

The position duration is approximately 6 months, starting February 17 and ending in August. King County will provide all necessary personal field gear (waders, safety equipment, etc.), a computer, and a vehicle to travel to field sampling locations.

Work Schedule: The work schedule for the seasonal Environmental Aide (Short Term Temporary position) will typically be Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 5:00 pm, 40 hours per week. You must be able to commit to working 40 hours a week during the entire period to be eligible for consideration though there will be flexibility for vacations. This is an overtime eligible position that is subject to the provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act. Work outside of business hours may be required.

Work Location: This position will predominantly work remotely and at various field monitoring sites but may also attend meetings at the King Street Center (201 S. Jackson St, Seattle WA 98104).

Hourly Rate: 23.88/hour

Primary Duties include:

  • Independently monitor and maintain fish enclosures containing juvenile salmon, including solo transportation, site visits, and working near/in streams and rivers.
  • Assist with collection of juvenile salmon and other fishes using dipnets, fyke nets, seines, and electrofishing approaches with guidance from senior staff.
  • Assist with measurement of physical habitat and environmental attributes in streams and rivers; and assist with collection of invertebrate samples in streams and rivers.
  • Record data in the field and enter data into databases and spreadsheets.
  • Handle juvenile salmon and collect physical measurements.
  • Tag juvenile salmon using elastomer tags or passive integrated transponder tags with guidance from senior staff.
  • Help coordinate field trips and site visits.
  • Interact with the public and answer questions about our studies.

Skills and Qualifications

Our Ideal Candidate Will Have the Following Competencies:

  • Manages complexity – Makes sense of complex, high quantity, and sometimes contradictory information to effectively solve problems.
  • Decision Quality – Makes sound and timely decisions, even in the absence of complete information.
  • Collaborates – Builds partnerships and collaborates with others to meet shared objectives.
  • Situational Adaptability – Adapts approach and demeanor in real time to match the shifting demands of different situations.
  • Action Oriented – Takes on new opportunities and tackles challenges with a sense of urgency, high energy, and enthusiasm.

Required Skills:

  • Ability to work in the field, during all-weather conditions, hiking over rough and slippery terrain and ability to swim.
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule, including occasional long days and night work.
  • Ability to carry heavy monitoring equipment (up to 50lbs).
  • Attention to detail and ability to follow directions precisely and dependably.
  • Ability to work both independently and as part of a team, take initiative and follow safety protocols.
  • Experience collecting biological or physical data in streams or rivers and demonstrated interest in applied environmental science.
  • Knowledge and interest in salmon ecology and salmon recovery.
  • Experience using Microsoft applications such as Excel, Access, Word, and Teams.
  • Must have a valid WA driver’s license.

Desired Skills:

  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in fish ecology, aquatic ecology, wildlife ecology, environmental science, environmental planning, or a closely related field.
  • Training and/or experience identifying Pacific Northwest freshwater fishes.
  • Training and/or experience with fish sampling and processing methods.
  • Training and/or experience using GPS devices for field data collection.
  • Experience operating large passenger vehicles, trailers, and watercrafts.
  • Training in swiftwater safety, first aid, and CPR. (this training can also be provided by King County)

Application and Selection Process

Application materials will be screened for clarity, completeness including cover letter and resume, and responsiveness to the list of qualifications and skills. The most competitive candidates may be invited to participate in a panel interview. Applications without the following required materials may not be considered for this position.

  • Resume
  • Brief Cover Letter detailing your background and what you can bring to this position

Please submit your resume, along with a brief cover letter of interest describing how you meet the job requirements and why you would be a great candidate for this position by January 6, 2025, to Perry Falcone at perry.falcone@kingcounty.gov.

For any questions, please contact the supervisor, Perry Falcone, at falcone@kingcounty.gov.


YMCA Camp Dudley Hiring Naturalists

YMCA Camp Dudley in Naches, WA, is hiring naturalists for their spring season. The program serves fifth and sixth graders from Yakima Valley and surrounding areas, who come to Camp Dudley for one to four days to participate in hands-on science classes (with other disciplines woven in), outdoor recreation activities, and community building experiences. This is a great job for people who love natural and environmental sciences, being outdoors, and working with kids.

Naturalists at YMCA Camp Dudley Outdoor School will:

  • Create magical outdoor experiences for 5th and 6th graders
  • Facilitate hands-on learning stations that deepen students’ care for the natural world and their communities
  • Lead outdoor adventure activities (hiking, canoeing, archery, low ropes, rock climbing, ziplining, etc.)

Dates: April 7–June 11 (Monday through Friday)

Pay: $160/day, room and board provided

To learn more and/or apply, contact Liz Giles at egiles@yakimaymca.org.


Cramer Fish Sciences Hiring Biological Technicians

Cramer Fish Sciences is currently looking to hire Seasonal Biological Technicians, along with a Lead Seasonal Senior Biological Technician to assist with a project taking place in the Eugene, OR area. These positions offer a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in fisheries research and contribute to meaningful conservation projects. Individuals with a background in biology/ecology/natural resources and a passion for fish conservation are encouraged to apply! Detailed job descriptions are available on their website.

Seasonal Biological Technician

Focus & Location: Support juvenile Chinook assessments across the Willamette Valley

Field Work: This position provides entry-level field support by assisting Biologists in juvenile Chinook assessments across the Willamette Valley. Fieldwork will be conducted in three-person teams lead by a Senior Biological Technician, typically 5 days per week, for 8 hours per day. Occasional camping may be required. Field technicians will be supervised by the Fish Ecology Lab in Portland, OR.

Project Details: Candidates will be assigned to specific projects upon hire, with potential opportunities to contribute to other Willamette Valley projects throughout the season as needs and priorities evolve.

  • Quartzville Juvenile Chinook Surveys: Conduct surveys from anticipated duration of late January to November 2025 at Quartzville Creek
  • Green Peter and Lookout Point Reservoir Distribution Surveys: Alternate weekly between Green Peter Reservoir and Lookout Point Reservoir from anticipated duration of February to November 2025.
  • Bulk PIT Tagging and Fish Releases: Support tagging and releases from anticipated duration of February to June 2025 (with a strong possibility of extension). Alternate between Marion Forks Hatchery, Minto Fish Hatchery near Detroit, OR, and the Willamette River Hatchery near Oakridge, OR.

Approximate Employment Dates: Mid-January to November 2025.

Pay Rate: $20-$22/hour depending on experience.

Lead Seasonal Biological Technician

Focus & Location: To support juvenile Chinook salmon population assessments on Quartzville Creek

Field Work: This position will lead a team of biological technicians in juvenile Chinook assessments on Quartzville Creek (located in East Linn County, 30 minutes from Sweet Home). Field work will be conducted in three-person teams typically 5 days per week, for 8 hours per day. Occasional camping may be required. Field technicians will be supervised by the Fish Ecology Lab in Portland, OR.

Approximate Employment Dates: Mid-January to November 2025.

Pay Rate: $24-$25/hour depending on experience

About Cramer Fish Sciences

We are a fisheries research consulting firm serving throughout the Pacific States and Idaho. We are a growing, employee-owned company whose mission is to rigorously apply scientific methods to afford our clients innovative, scientifically robust solutions to address a variety of fisheries and environmental challenges. Our team achieves this through effective and unbiased data collection, insightful analysis and interpretation, and clear communications and publication of results in scientific journals.