Otolith Laboratory Biologist - Fish & Wildlife Biologist 3 - Permanent - 2026-08568

Salary: $5,642.00 - $7,592.00 Monthly
Location : Thurston County - Olympia, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number: 2026-08568
Department: Dept. of Fish and Wildlife
Opening Date: 10/13/2026
Closing Date: 11/3/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

Description
Title- Otolith Laboratory Biologist

Classification- Fish & Wildlife Biologist 3

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

Posting Timeframe- This recruitment is scheduled to be posted until November 3, 2026. The first review of applications will take place on October 26, 2026. Application review is ongoing, and applicants are encouraged to submit their materials as soon as possible. Following the first review date, this recruitment may be closed at any time.
Learn more about being a member of Team WDFW !
Photo Caption: Hatchery summer Chinook salmon - Photo Credit: Chase Gunnell
WDFW's Fish Ageing and Otolith Laboratories provide critical age and origin data to WDFW Fish Management and Hatchery Divisions, tribal co-managers, and federal fisheries managers to be used in forecasting, run reconstruction, stock assessment, and scientific research.

With your expertise in the preparation and processing of calcified structures, you will conduct research and report on biological studies of Pacific Salmon and other marine, anadromous, and freshwater fishes.

Your work as part of the Otolith Laboratory Team will directly support efforts to meet resource and economic needs for the State of Washington and the Pacific Northwest, including programs focused on recovering Endangered Species Act (ESA) sensitive stocks.
What to Expect :

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Otolith Laboratory Biologist's duties will include,

Thermal Mark Implementation and Evaluation:

• Prepare high-quality, half-sectioned and thin-sectioned otolith samples.
• Use lapping wheels for grinding and polishing.
• Communicate effectively with lab team members and supervisor to ensure accuracy and meet project deadlines.
• Independently observe otoliths using compound and dissecting microscopes to identify and decode thermal marks.
• Accurately records thermal mark information into database.
• Review and plan distinctive thermal mark patterns aligned with hatchery requests.
• Develop thermal marking schedules.
• Coordinate, adapt, and communicate hatchery thermal marking schedules to achieve intended thermal marks.

Microstructural and Microchemical Analyses:

• Prepare high-quality samples from otoliths and other calcified structures for microstructural and microchemical analyses using low-speed saws and lapping wheels.
• Use image analysis software and microscopes to measure and count daily increments in otoliths to evaluate environmental, ecological, and anthropogenic influences on growth during early life history.
• Evaluate and summarize results of daily growth estimates, accuracy and precision of estimates, size-at-marine entry, and other relevant parameters.

Data Collection, Analysis, and Reporting:

• Perform statistical analysis and interpretation of data.
• Prepare reports, peer-reviewed publications, and presentations at conferences and other meetings.

Assisting and Supporting Production, Thermal Marking Operations, and Field Collections:

• Assist hatchery and lab staff with artificially spawning and cross-fertilizing salmonid gametes.
• Travel to study sites to assist with or lead collection efforts for biological samples.

Working Conditions:

Work Setting, including hazards: Work primarily occurs in a laboratory setting, but will also include office environments, hatcheries, and field sites. Perform repetitive fine motor functions for long durations. Extended periods of time will be spent looking at computer monitors or through microscopes.

Laboratory hazards include hot surfaces (hot plates, burners), grinding wheels, sharp blades, dissecting tools, and chemical exposure (acids, ethanol, acetone, thermoplastic resin, and polystyrene resin) both direct and as fumes.

Hatchery and field work may be performed during inclement weather and over slippery, uneven terrain near or on the water. Lift equipment, samples, coolers, and field gear weighing up to 75 pounds, with assistance as needed. Travel will include operating, or being a passenger in, a motor vehicle on highways or dirt roads. This position may involve working in or near water, including tasks that require navigating, negotiating, and performing duties related to water environments.
Schedule: Typically, Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. The work schedule may require weekend work or extended hours while in the field.
Travel Requirements: Occasional field work, laboratory work, and projects will require travel throughout Washington state. Attend annual workshops and conferences. Travel may include overnight and day trips. Increased travel potential November-February.
Tools and Equipment: Compound and dissecting (stereo) microscopes, epifluorescence microscope, desktop/laptop computers, image analysis software, dissecting tools, precision grinders, hot plates, fume hood, balances, and low-speed precision saws will be used routinely. Portable chilling units and pumps will occasionally be set up and maintained for hatchery production or controlled experiments.
Customer Interactions: Public interactions are uncommon but may occur when entering state buildings, working at hatcheries, or conducting fieldwork. Collaborate and professionally communicate with Tribal/First Nation groups and co-managers, WDFW staff throughout the state, non-profit organizations, academic groups, public utilities, federal agencies, other Washington state resource agencies, and fisheries agencies from other states.
Qualifications:

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

Required Qualifications:

Option 1:

A Bachelor's degree in fisheries, biology, natural resource science, environmental science, or a related field.

AND

Three (3) years of professional experience in fish research or management.
Option 2:

Two (2) years as a Fish & Wildlife Biologist 2.
In addition to meeting one of the options listed above, the following are also required and may be gained concurrently:

One (1) year of experience with the following:

• Processing or analyzing calcified structures.
• Producing high-quality otolith sections, including preparing and analyzing otoliths for thermal mark interrogations, microstructure, and/or microchemistry analysis.
• Reading and interpreting multiple band otolith patterns, including reading/evaluating calcified structures for age estimation or thermal mark patterns.

Ability to:

• Accurately perform repetitive motions utilizing fine motor skills for long periods of time.
• Prepare 20-40 otolith thin sections and 50-100 otolith half sections daily.
• Read 100-300 otolith samples daily.

Knowledge of:

• Pacific salmon life history and growth.

Please Note:

• A Master's degree in the applicable science may substitute for one (1) year of the required experience in fish research or management.
• A Ph.D. in the applicable science may substitute for two (2) years of the required experience in fish research or management.

Certifications/Licenses:

Valid Driver's License.
Preferred Qualifications:

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

Master's degree in a relevant biological science.

Authorship or co-authorship of one (1) or more peer-reviewed publications.

Experience:

• Processing and analyzing data obtained from otoliths or other calcified structures.
• Applying current fish ageing research methods.
• Enumerating daily growth increments in otoliths.
• Otolith thermal mark identification.
• With, or knowledge of, Pacific Northwest fish biology and ecology, including life history and population dynamics.
• Managing multiple complex projects with competing deadlines, producing accurate and timely work.
• Analyzing data to evaluate issues, assess options, draw conclusions, and support decision-making.
• Defining research questions, identifying data needs, and designing independent experiments.

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 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 [click to reveal email address] View email address on us.fitly.work
• 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 #2026-08568.
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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 authorship or co-authorship of peer-reviewed publications?

• Yes, I have authorship or co-authorship of one or more peer-reviewed publications.
• No, I do not have authorship or co-authorship of a peer-reviewed publication.

06

Select the option below that best describes your experience in fish management or fish 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 - 5 years of this experience.
• I have between 5 - 7 years of this experience.
• I have 7 years or more of this experience.

07

Do you have at least one (1) year of experience processing or analyzing calcified structures?

• Yes, I have at least one year of this experience.
• No, I do not have at least one year of this experience

08

Do you have at least one (1) year of experience producing high-quality otolith sections, including preparing and analyzing otoliths for thermal mark interrogations, microstructure, and/or microchemistry analysis?

• Yes, I have at least one year of this experience.
• No, I do not have at least one year of this experience.

09

Do you have at least one (1) year of experience reading and interpreting biological information from calcified structures such as age, daily growth, or thermal mark patterns?

• Yes, I have at least one year of this experience.
• No, I do not have at least one year of this experience.

10

Please briefly describe your experience in your experience in fish management or fish research. ("See Resume" is not a valid response. If you do not have this experience, put N/A).
11

Please briefly describe your experience extracting, processing, and analyzing calcified structures for age estimation, thermal mark interrogations, microstructure, and/or microchemistry analysis. ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).
12

Do you have knowledge of Pacific salmon life history and growth?

• Yes, I have this knowledge.
• No, I do not have this knowledge.

13

Please select the option(s) below that you have experience in. (Select all that apply).

• Processing and analyzing data obtained from otoliths or other calcified structures.
• Applying current fish ageing research methods.
• Enumerating daily growth increments in otoliths.
• Otolith thermal mark identification.
• None of the above.

14

In support of the question above, briefly describe your experience in each option selected. ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).
15

Do you have knowledge of Pacific Northwest fish biology and ecology, including life history and population dynamics?

• Yes, I have this knowledge.
• No, I do not have this knowledge.

16

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 (HI)
• Indeed.com
• Job Board
• Job Fair
• LinkedIn
• Mount Hood Community College (MHCC)
• 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)

17

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