Autofish System Operator - Fish & Wildlife Biologist 2 - Permanent - 2026-07709

Salary: $4,746.00 - $6,384.00 Monthly
Location : Thurston County - Olympia, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number: 2026-07709
Department: Dept. of Fish and Wildlife
Opening Date: 09/16/2026
Closing Date: 9/27/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

Description
Title- Autofish System Operator

Classification- Fish & Wildlife Biologist 2

Job Status- Full-Time / Permanent WDFW Program- Fish Program - Hatcheries Division Duty Station- Olympia, Washington - Thurston County

Learn more about being a member of !
AutoFish System - Photo Credit: WDFW
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Autofish System Operator will play an important role in supporting salmon conservation efforts across Washington.

Working independently at hatcheries statewide, you'll operate automated and manual mass marking and coded wire tagging mobile wet labs, plan and conduct coded wire tag experiments, and analyze tagging data to help determine contribution rates, allocation, broodstock identification, and the effects of mark-selective fisheries.

Your work will help provide the data needed to inform salmon management and support the conservation of wild salmon.
What to Expect:
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Autofish System Operator will,

• Independently operate an automated or manual coded wire tagging and mass marking mobile wet lab at locations statewide.
• Oversee up to 11 contract employees performing coded wire tagging and/or mass marking activities. Train new employees, provide hazard communication training, monitor work product, and assist in training WDFW staff on proper tagging and marking techniques.
• Ensure that scientific random sampling methods are followed to obtain representative populations during tagging experiments.
• Diagnose and repair problems with state-of-the-art automated marking and tagging mobile wet labs, including complex robotic systems, video imaging systems, and complex software.
• Monitor work product and fish health to provide sound scientific results.
• Analyze coded wire tag recoveries to determine contribution rates, allocation, and escapement using RMIS coded wire tag database.
• Collaborate with the HEAT Unit, Hatchery Data Unit, and CWT Head Lab as directed by the Biologist 3 or 4 by compiling, quality-checking, and analyzing data.
• Prepare data summaries, reports, and analyses for review by the Biologist 3 and distribution to the requesting unit.
• Maintain automated and manual coded wire tagging mobile wet labs.
• Perform annual removal and repair of mechanical devices to ensure smooth operation during tagging and marking operations.
• Re-home and verify operation of six stepper motors.
• Recalibrate video imaging system by removing and cleaning all optics and infra-red sensors.

Working Conditions:
Work Setting, including hazards:

• Duties are performed in an automated coded wire tagging mobile wet lab and hatchery environments.
• Outdoor duties occur in all weather conditions, including extreme heat, freezing temperatures, rain, wind, and snow.
• Work on your feet for extended periods and routinely lift up to 40 pounds.
• Work around hatchery ponds and on catwalks over hatchery ponds.
• This position may involve working in or near water, including tasks that require navigating, negotiating, and performing duties related to water environments.

Schedule:

This position is full-time working 40 hours per week, with extensive overtime expected during the peak marking season, which typically runs from February through November. The standard work schedule may include occasional evening or weekend work as needed. Schedules may vary based on business needs, time of year, and/or weather conditions.
Travel Requirements:

Extensive travel and driving are required. Travel may be required for up to five (5) days per week for as many as nine (9) months per year.
Tools and Equipment:

Electric and basic hand tools.
Customer Interactions:

Regularly interact with biologists, hatchery personnel, Tribal staff, and members of the public.

Qualifications:

Required Qualifications:
Closely related qualifying experience may be substituted for the required education on a year-by-year basis.
Option 1:

• A Bachelor's degree in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, environmental science, or a closely related field.

AND

• One (1) year of professional experience in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science or environmental science.

Option 2:

• One (1) year as a Fish and Wildlife Biologist 1.

Please Note:

• A Master's degree or higher in the applicable science may substitute for one (1) year of the required experience.

Certifications/Licenses:

Valid driver's license.

Preferred Qualifications:

In addition to the required qualifications, our ideal applicant will possess one or more of 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 injectors.
• Experience working in a salmon hatchery environment.
• Experience supervising or directing employees.
• Experience using hand tools to perform general repairs on mechanical equipment.
• Experience analyzing data and contributing to the publication of research findings.
• Knowledge of the coded wire tag system.
• Knowledge and experience with all types of Electronic Coded Wire Tag Detectors.

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 [click to reveal phone number]View phone number on us.fitly.work or email [click to reveal email address] View email address on us.fitly.work , or the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) at View phone number on us.fitly.work.
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]View phone number on us.fitly.work or
Other questions: If you have other questions regarding this position, please reach out to and reference job #2026-07709.
Know someone who would like to volunteer? WDFW-Get Involved-Volunteer!

Follow us on social media: LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram

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

Please select the option below that best describes your professional experience in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, or environmental science.

• I do not have this experience.
• I have less than 1 year of this experience.
• I have between 1 - 5 years of this experience.
• I have 5 or more years of this experience.

06

Please briefly describe your professional experience in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, or environmental science. ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).
07

Do you have experience operating an automated or manual coded wire tagging/mass marking mobile wet lab?

• Yes
• No

08

Please briefly describe your experience with coded wire tagging and/or mass marking. Include the type of mobile wet lab you've operated, the number of years as an operator, and describe performance levels. ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).
09

Do you have experience operating and maintaining Mark IV coded wire tag injectors?

• Yes
• No

10

Do you have experience working in a salmon hatchery environment?

• Yes
• No

11

Please briefly describe your experience working in a hatchery environment. Please include any experience with fish handling and fish health assessment. ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).
12

Please briefly describe your experience with general maintenance including mechanical, electrical, and plumbing. ("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
• 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)

14

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