Puget Sound Sampling Unit Data Manager & Sampler Support Supervisor - FW Bio 3 - Perm - 2026-06852

Salary: $5,642.00 - $7,592.00 Monthly
Location : Thurston County - Olympia, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 2026-06852
Department: Dept. of Fish and Wildlife
Opening Date: 08/14/2026
Closing Date: 8/24/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

Description
Title- Puget Sound Sampling Unit (PSSU) Data Manager & Sampler Support Supervisor

Classification- Fish & Wildlife Biologist 3

Job Status- Full-Time / PermanentWDFW Program- Fish Program - Puget Sound ManagementDuty Station- Olympia, Washington - Thurston County

Hybrid/Telework- This position may include telework options at the discretion of the supervisor.

Please note- This position is eligible for an additional 15% pay differential when the incumbent is performing flight duties or chemical immobilization as noted in the duties listed below.
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Aerial survey conducted to count fishing boats over the Marine Areas of Puget Sound - Photo Credit: WDFW
The Puget Sound Sampling Unit Data Manager & Sampler Support Supervisor is a key leadership role within the Fish Program's Puget Sound Sampling Unit (PSSU). This position manages fisheries data collection, analysis, and reporting while leading sampler support operations that are critical to monitoring Puget Sound fisheries.
In this role, you'll oversee fisheries sampling projects, including Chinook and Coho salmon monitoring, halibut assessments, commercial catch evaluations, and other special studies. You'll manage complex fisheries databases, develop fisheries estimates, supervise support staff, and collaborate with agency staff and Tribal Co-Managers to ensure high-quality data informs fisheries management decisions.
What to Expect:

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the PSSU Data Manager & Sampler Support Supervisor will,
Data Coordination and Management for the Puget Sound Sampling Unit (PSSU):

• Coordinate and manage all recreational and commercial fisheries data used to support Puget Sound salmon, halibut, and other fisheries.
• Analyze and interpret biological and fishery monitoring data to produce in-season and post-season catch, effort, and harvest estimates.
• Apply statistical methods to evaluate fisheries data, identify trends, prepare reports, tables, figures, and recommendations that inform fisheries management.
• Ensure data quality by reviewing sampling procedures, coordinating quality control efforts, and integrating tribal and non-tribal fisheries data.
• Coordinate fishery sampling activities, calendars, biological studies, and resource assessments across Puget Sound.
• Coordinate the scheduling and completion of aerial surveys.
• Conduct 20% or more of aerial surveys, as needed.
• Ensure agency flight policies and established protocols are followed.
• Facilitate annual training for staff conducting aerial surveys to ensure compliance with established flight protocols.
• Coordinate with pilots and complete flight plans for all aerial surveys.
• Ensure all flights are fully staffed, including designated backup staff.

Supervise Sampling Support Staff and Oversee Unit Operations:

• Supervise Sampler Support staff by providing leadership, training, coaching, performance management, and professional development.
• Coordinate daily operations, staffing, scheduling, and communication to ensure efficient support for fisheries sampling activities.
• Oversee administrative functions including hiring, onboarding, position descriptions, evaluations, purchasing, payroll, travel, inventory, fleet, and records retention.
• Monitor staff spending and financial processes, working with agency staff and vendors to resolve purchasing and accounting issues.
• Develop and maintain operational procedures, ensure compliance with agency policies, and continuously improve business processes.

Develop Reports, Manuals, and Technical Guidance:

• Lead the development, maintenance, and annual publication of fisheries sampling manuals, protocols, and administrative guidance.
• Prepare technical reports and documentation that communicate sampling methods, data analyses, and fisheries monitoring results.
• Collaborate with agency staff, tribal co-managers, and leadership to ensure documentation remains accurate, current, and supports effective fisheries management.

Working Conditions:
Work Setting, including hazards:

Work is primarily in an office setting (90%). Work also occurs in float planes and occasionally on-board boats during inclement weather. Repetitive movements of hands, finger manipulations, and keyboarding, long periods of sitting. Properly wear a PFD at all times on or near water. This position may involve working in or near water, including tasks that require navigating, negotiating, and performing duties related to water environments.
Schedule:

24/7 with weekend and evening work required, including for aerial surveys and evening meetings and travel.
Travel Requirements:

Operate an agency owned vehicle with occasional overnight travel.
Customer Interactions:

Interact with all PSSU staff, treaty tribes, agency biologists and managers, field technicians, WDFW Human Recourses, Business Services, Financial Services, Information Technology, Capital Asset Management, Fish Program administrative staff and managers, and the public.
Qualifications:
Required Qualifications:
Option 1:

• Two (2) years as a Fish & Wildlife Biologist 2.

Option 2 - All of the following:

• A Bachelor's degree in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, environmental science, or closely related field.
• Three (3) years of professional experience in fish management or fish research, wildlife management or wildlife research, or habitat management or habitat research.

Option 3 - All of the following:

• A Master's degree in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, environmental science, or closely related field.
• Two (2) years of professional experience in fish management or fish research, wildlife management or wildlife research, or habitat management or habitat research.

Option 4 - All of the following:

• A Doctorate's degree in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, environmental science, or closely related field.
• One (1) year of professional experience in fish management or fish research, wildlife management or wildlife research, or habitat management or habitat research.

Option 5:

• Seven (7) years of professional experience in fish management or fish research, wildlife management or wildlife research, or habitat management or habitat research.

For the options above, the following experience is also required and may be gained concurrently:

• Two (2) years of supervisory experience.
• Fisheries harvest management, including methods for biological data collection, interpretation, and presentation.
• Analyzing data, interpreting results, and selecting appropriate statistical tests.
• Database design and management.
• Developing study designs and research strategies.
• Technical writing and editing.
• Advanced proficiency with computer software applications, including Microsoft Access, Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.

Certifications/Licenses:

Valid driver's license.
Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment:

• Completion of WDFW Basic Aircraft Safety Training and Standard Operating Procedures before working aboard small aircraft within first six (6) months of hire.
• Completion of WDFW Aircraft Ditching, Underwater Egress and Sea Survival before working aboard single engine aircraft with floats within first six (6) months of hire.

Preferred Qualifications:

In addition to the required qualifications, our ideal applicant will possess one or more of the following:

• Working knowledge of computer programming in the "R" computing environment (creating, updating, and running the programming code).
• Familiarity with life histories of salmon, steelhead, and other marine and shellfish in the Puget Sound.
• Knowledge of commercial and sport fishing regulations, methods, and gear.
• Ability to work independently, proactively solve problems, and complete projects accurately while meeting established deadlines.

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 (3) 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 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: 2026-1234 - 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 or email , or the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) at .
Technical Difficulties: If you are having technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application, please call NEOGOV toll-free at or
Other questions: If you have other questions regarding this position, please reach out to and reference job #2026-06852.
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AL
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. This includes both vocational and college education. (If this does not apply to you, please put N/A.)
05

Do you have two (2) years of experience as a Fish & Wildlife Biologist 2?

• Yes
• No

06

Please select the option below that best describes your professional experience in fish management or fish research, wildlife management or wildlife research, or habitat management or habitat research.

• I do not have this experience
• I have less than 1 year of this experience
• I have between 1 - 2 years of this experience
• I have between 2 - 3 years of this experience
• I have between 3 - 7 years of this experience
• I have 7 or more years of this experience

07

Please briefly describe your professional experience in fish management or fish research, wildlife management or wildlife research, or habitat management or habitat research. ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).
08

Do you have at least two (2) years of supervisory experience?

• Yes, I have this experience
• No, I do not have this experience

09

Please briefly describe your supervisory experience. Include the number and types of employees supervised, as well as your responsibilities for training, coaching, performance management, and employee development. ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).
10

Do you have experience with fisheries harvest management and the collection, analysis, interpretation, and presentation of biological data?

• Yes, I have this experience
• No, I do not have this experience

11

Describe your experience with fisheries harvest management and biological data collection, interpretation, and presentation. Please include the types of fisheries or biological data collected, your role in data analysis or interpretation, and how results were communicated or used to support fisheries management decisions. ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).
12

Which of the following species or resource groups have you worked with in a professional, educational, or research setting? (Select ALL that apply.)

• Chinook salmon
• Coho salmon
• Steelhead
• Other salmon species
• Marine fish species
• Shellfish
• None of the above

13

Please select the areas in which you have experience. (Select ALL that apply.)

• Analyzing data, interpreting results, and selecting appropriate statistical tests
• Designing and managing databases, including organizing, maintaining, and manipulating data
• Developing study designs and research strategies to support scientific investigations
• Writing and editing technical documents, reports, publications, or other scientific materials
• I do not have professional experience in any of the areas listed above

14

Which of the following computer software or programming tools have you used to support data management, analysis, or reporting? (Select ALL that apply.)

• Microsoft Excel
• Microsoft Access or other database management systems
• Microsoft Word
• Microsoft PowerPoint
• R programming language for data analysis, visualization, or reporting
• Other data analysis, programming, or database software
• I do not have experience using these tools

15

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
• Hydraulic Institute
• 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
• University Job Board
• UW College of the Environment
• WDFW Employee
• WDFW Recruiter
• WDFW Website
• Word of Mouth
• WorkSource
• X (formerly Twitter)

16

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