AutoFish System Operator - Fish & Wildlife Biologist 1

Title- AutoFish System Operators
Classification- Fish & Wildlife Biologist 1
Job Status- Full-Time / Non-Permanent
Appointment/Season Length- 6 months – January 1, 2025 – July 2, 2025 
WDFW Program- Fish Program – Hatcheries Division 
Duty Station- Olympia, Washington – Thurston County
Schedule- Second Shift, typically 3 P.M. – 11 P.M.

Learn more about being a member of Team WDFW!

What to Expect-
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the AutoFish System Operator will,

Under the direction of senior level biologists, operate an automated/manual coded wire tagging and mass marking mobile wet lab statewide:  

• Lead up to three (3) contract employees to perform coded wire tagging and/or mass marking, which will include providing hazard communication training and monitoring work.
• Assist in organizing and conducting coded wire tagging.
• Diagnose and repair problems with state-of-the-art automated marking/tagging mobile wet labs, including complex robotic systems, video imaging systems, and complex software.
• Maintain data records of tag codes and production numbers with a high degree of accuracy.
• Monitor fish health and life support systems in the AutoTrailer, including water flow, fish behavior, communicating fish health issues to the Fish & Wildlife Biologist 2 and appropriate hatchery staff.
• Monitor work product by collecting quality retention samples and conducting pondside quality checks to provide sound scientific results.
• Work with hatchery staff to load fish into automated trailer as needed to maintain production levels.
• Communicate shift successes and challenges effectively with assigned Fish & Wildlife Biologist 2.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Work Setting, including hazards: 

• Operate automated coded wire tag mobile wet lab at hatchery locations, often remote with or without cell service.
• Work during inclement weather with minimal office time.
• Stand for extended periods and regularly lift or move 40 pounds while loading fish into tagging trailers.
• Walk on catwalks near hatchery ponds, monitoring fish health during marking and tagging operations.
• Must be able to negotiate water in emergency situations.

Schedule: Monday through Friday, second shift (typically 3 P.M. – 11 P.M.), with start and end times set by the project lead, usually with overtime. Limited schedule flexibility due to in-season project completion needs.

Travel Requirements: Extensive overnight travel and driving required.

Tools and Equipment: Automated robotic mobile wet lab—software and robotics; electric and hand tools; and pumps and plumbing associated with life support systems in Auto trailers.

Customer Interactions: Interacts with Biologists, Hatchery personnel, Tribal Staff, and the public.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Required Qualifications:

A Bachelor’s degree in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, or environmental science.

Please note: Closely related qualifying experience may be substituted for the required education on a year-by-year basis.

Certifications/Licenses:
Valid driver’s license.

Preferred Qualifications:

In addition to the required qualifications, our ideal applicant will possess some or all the following: 

• Experience operating an automated or manual coded wire tagging/mass marking mobile wet lab.
• Experience operating and maintaining Mark IV coded wire tag (CWT) injectors.
• Knowledge of the CWT system.
• Knowledge and experience with all types of Electronic CWT Detectors.
• Experience working in a salmon hatchery environment.
• Experience supervising or directing employees.
• Ability to work independently and be self-motivated.
• Experience working with hand tools for general repairs to mechanical devices.

Your application should 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.