Job Posting- Fisheries Biologist
Chelan County PUD
Fisheries Biologist
Location: Wenatchee, WA
Full-time
Salary: $92,800 - 134,900
Application Due Date: 10/31/2026
Application Link: https://www.chelanpud.org/about-us/careers
Questions? Contact: Errin Bratton, 509-661-4587
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LIVE, WORK AND PLAY!
Chelan County PUD is located in central Washington State at the confluence of the Columbia and Wenatchee Rivers. As a public power leader, we embrace the challenges and opportunities of our dynamic operations.
Powered by the Columbia River, we generate hydropower while prioritizing environmental stewardship. Each year, we invest millions of dollars and countless hours to protect fish, wildlife, and plant ecosystems. Our efforts also include creating 14 parks, welcoming over 3 million visitors annually.
Wenatchee, home to Chelan PUD, is a recreational paradise, recognized by Forbes as a top place to retire. The Wenatchee Valley offers scenic beauty, a thriving economy, and a high quality of life with over 200 days of sunshine each year. Here, small-town charm meets big-city amenities, with abundant outdoor activities like water sports, hiking, biking, skiing, and golfing. The region is also known for its excellent wines.
Consider Chelan PUD for your next career move and join a welcoming community with an exceptional lifestyle.
APPLICATION MATERIALS
Applicants are required to submit a resume in PDF format.
This position is OPEN UNTIL FILLED and applicants are encouraged to apply immediately. The first review date for application materials is scheduled for September 25, 2026.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Chelan PUD does not sponsor work visas such as H-1B, E-3, F-1, OPT, student visas, TN, or any other visas. Candidates and employees must be eligible to work in the United States without visa sponsorship.
Interested parties are also invited to contact Human Resources at joblist@chelanpud.org to discuss the position
SALARY RANGE
The advertised hiring range for Fisheries Biologist III is $92,800 - $116,000, with a maximum opportunity of up to $139,200 with tenure and strong performance.
The advertised hiring range for Fisheries Biologist Senior is $107,920 - $134,900, with a maximum opportunity of up to $161,880 with tenure and strong performance.
Introductory Period: New employees holding regular positions must complete an introductory period of twelve months.
BENEFITS EPOA
In addition to competitive wages Chelan PUD employees also enjoy outstanding benefits which include zero cost employer funded medical, dental, and vision healthcare benefits, access to the employee assistance program, and a VEBA health reimbursement account.
Washington state retirement PERS participation and optional 457 plan participation with an employer matching 401(a) plan.
Leave, life & disability benefits including paid leave starting at 21 days per calendar year up to 35 with tenure, 12 paid holidays per calendar year, paid jury duty, short-term disability & long-term disability, and basic life, AD&D, and optional voluntary life.
The work life benefits include optional flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care, educational assistance, various rewards and recognition programs and position specific stipends.
For more explanation of the district benefits please visit our benefits website www.mychelanpudbenefits.org.
JOB POSTING
Fisheries Biologist III
J o b D e s c r i p t i o n
JOB POSTING
Fisheries Biologist III
Overview
The Fisheries Biologist III develops budgets and implementation plans, manages projects, and prepares natural resource program reports. Under general direction and oversight of more senior biologists, performs biological monitoring and evaluation of predator control programs, fish spill program management, fish survival tests, and hatchery program monitoring and evaluation in alignment with the District's Habitat Conservation Program (HCP) or other business unit goals and objectives. This position also supports the implementation of hydro licenses, including activities associated with resident and anadromous fish.
Responsibilities
Coordinate and at times lead efforts to implement, monitor and/or evaluate biological programs associated with the District's HCP's. Perform activities such as study planning, budget development, implementation, analysis, and reporting. Manage projects or aspects of larger projects under the direction of higher level biologists. Manage small project teams and consultants. Monitor or manage the implementation of predator control programs, fish spill management, fish survival study investigations, and hatchery monitoring and evaluation programs.
Provide biological technical support for multiple internal and external working group meetings and forums such as HCP Committees, license forums, regional technical teams, and watershed action teams. May serve as District representative on implementing committees and forums.
Support and participate in the implementation of Rocky Reach, Lake Chelan, and Rock Island licensing efforts, including activities associated with anadromous and resident fish programs. Provide other biological technical analysis and reporting information as needed to internal departments.
Maintain regular and predictable attendance: Perform related duties and responsibilities as required. Comply with District policies. Complete all required training. Maintain a working knowledge and comply with District safety procedures and specific safety requirements of this position, and those in accordance with applicable provisions of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) and Washington Administrative Code (WAC).
Effectively communicate with internal and external stakeholders.
As an essential function, drive a motorized vehicle while conducting business on behalf of the District.
Reports To
Director - Natural Resources
Overtime exemption
Exempt
Qualifications
Education
Bachelor's Degree in Fisheries Biology, Natural Resource Management, Biology, or related field from an accredited four-year college or university required.
Equivalent experience (year for year) may substitute for required education.
Experience
6+ years working in the field of fishery research and/or fishery program implementation required.
Demonstrated experience interpreting and applying related regulatory laws such as the Endangered Species Act (ESA), working with various government agencies and tribal interests, and project management preferred.
Experience working with hydroelectric projects is strongly preferred.
Licenses and Certifications
Valid Driver's License at hire and WA Driver's License within 30 days of hire
Skills and Abilities
A fully skilled incumbent will have the following knowledge skills & abilities:
Proficiency in scientific principles of fisheries research
Knowledge of scientific methods
Strong analytical capabilities including but not limited to statistical analyses using descriptive, inferential, and mark-recapture techniques.
Knowledge of both anadromous and resident fish biology.
Ability to develop, implement, and oversee all aspects of moderate biological studies.
Knowledge of applicable regulatory laws such as Endangered Species Act (ESA) and ESA Section 7 Consultation requirements, Federal Power Act, and Washington State RCW 77.
Working knowledge of hydro-electric power generation.
Strong Project Management skills
Knowledge of statistical methods
Organizational skills
Critical thinking
Data analysis skills
Report writing skills
Highly effective verbal and written communication skills.
Strong technical writing skills
Ability to organize work plans and guide team-oriented projects.
Presentation and negotiation skills
Knowledge of management concepts, scheduling techniques.
Working knowledge of budgeting methods and analysis.
Must be proficient in reading, writing and speaking English.
Physical Demands
Sitting Frequent 34-66%
Standing Frequent 34-66%
Walking Occasional 11-33%
Lifting 1-10 lbs Floor-Waist Frequent 34-66%
Lifting 1-10 lbs Waist-Shoulders Frequent 34-66%
Lifting 1-10 lbs Above Shoulders Frequent 34-66%
Lifting 25 - 50 lbs Floor-Waist (copier paper) Occasional 11-33%
Climb Stairs Occasional 11-33%
Twisting at Waist Occasional 11-33%
Stooping/Bending Occasional 11-33%
Reach Floor to Waist Frequent 34-66%
Reach Waist to Shoulder Frequent 34-66%
Reach Above Shoulder Frequent 34-66%
Wrist/hand/fingers manipulation (keyboarding, mousing, etc.) Frequent 34-66%
Hand Controls (joy stick, controls on equipment, etc.) Frequent 34-66%
Repetitive Motions Frequent 34-66%
Talking Regularly 67-100%
Hearing Regularly 67-100%
Visual - Near Acuity Occasional 11-33%
Visual - Far Acuity Occasional 11-33%
Visual - Depth Perception Occasional 11-33%
Visual - Color Discrimination Occasional 11-33%
Working Conditions
Exposure to Weather - Occasionally
Proximity to Moving Mechanical Parts - Occasionally
Atmospheric Conditions (dust, fumes, etc.) - Occasionally
Exposure to Electricity - Occasionally
Exposure to Toxic/Caustic Chemicals
- Occasionally
Noise Intensity Level: - Moderate
District Values
Trust - We act with integrity, empathy, competence, and transparency, earning the confidence and respect of each other and the public we serve.
Safety - We protect what matters most through the choices we make.
Stewardship - We responsibly manage and thoughtfully oversee all resources entrusted to us for the benefit of future generations.
Collaboration - We transform our deep expertise from individual advantage into shared power - partnering across teams to maximize our impact and secure our future.
Courage - We boldly step into the unknown to do what matters, seeking opportunities to grow and lead.
Equal Opportunity/ADA
Chelan PUD is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer (EOE Minorities/Females/Protected Veterans/Disabled). We value diversity at all levels of the organization. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any protected classifications as defined by law.
EEO Law Posters can be found on the main Careers (chelanpud.org) page in English and Spanish.
The job functions and physical requirements described above are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Fisheries Biologist Senior
J o b D e s c r i p t i o n
JOB POSTING
Fisheries Biologist Senior
Overview
The Senior Fisheries Biologist is responsible for designing and implementing biological studies and evaluations of anadromous fish, resident fish and water quality individually and through project teams to satisfy FERC license conditions other state and federal requirements and regulations for the continued long-term operation of the District's hydroelectric projects. Investigates and identifies methods of optimizing District operations while adhering to Project licenses and supporting the District's strategic plan objectives. Represents the District in regional forums and committees coordinating District's programs and interests with Tribal, Federal, State, and local agencies, and other non-governmental organizations.
Responsibilities
Design and lead complex studies and projects utilizing scientific methods to complete complex analysis, interpretation of results, and documentation of findings related to District programs and strategic objectives. Prepare reports and presentations on results, mitigation recommendations, and opportunities for improvements to management and outside agencies or key stakeholders. Manage contractors and consultants.
Represent District in technical forums such as the Habitat Conservation Plan Committees contributing to annual reports, preparing and delivering scientific presentations, and developing proposals to achieve District goals. Communicate issues of concern with junior-level staff and management by providing recommendations and solutions.
Participate in District and departmental strategic, long-term, and annual business and financial planning efforts to align work plan with goal and minimize risks.
Provide work direction and mentor lower-level biologists.
Participate in regional and national forums and peer-reviewed journals to garner regional recognition as a technical expert in subject matter related to the District's project areas.
Maintain regular and predictable attendance: Perform related duties and responsibilities as required. Comply with District policies. Complete all required training. Maintain a working knowledge and comply with District safety procedures and specific safety requirements of this position, and those in accordance with applicable provisions of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) and Washington Administrative Code (WAC).
Effectively communicate with internal and external stakeholders
As an essential function, drive a motorized vehicle while conducting business on behalf of the District.
Reports To
Director - Natural Resources
Overtime exemption
Exempt
Qualifications
Education
Bachelor's Degree in Fisheries Biology, Natural Resource Management, Biology, or related field from an accredited four-year college or university required.
Equivalent experience (year for year) may substitute for required education.
Experience
7+ years of experience as a fisheries biologist involving the interpretation and application of environmental regulatory requirements (or similar), managing complex projects and/or implementing scientific programs, and working with various government agencies and tribes the District interacts with is required.
Experience in hydroelectric power generation industry strongly preferred.
Candidates with published peer-reviewed scientific work and experience delivering presentations at the regional and national levels are desired.
Licenses and Certifications
Valid Driver's License at hire and WA Driver's License within 30 days of hire
Skills and Abilities
A fully skilled incumbent will have the following knowledge skills & abilities:
In depth knowledge of the scientific principles of fisheries research, scientific methods
Strong analytical capabilities including but not limited to statistical analyses using descriptive, inferential, and mark-recapture techniques.
Knowledge of both anadromous and resident fish biology.
Ability to independently develop, implement, and oversee all aspects of complex biological studies.
Knowledge of applicable regulatory laws such as Endangered Species Act (ESA) and ESA Section 7 Consultation requirements, Federal Power Act, and Washington State RCW 77.
Working knowledge of hydro-electric power generation.
Highly effective verbal and written communication skills.
Biological and technical writing experience.
Strong project leadership and management skills
Strong organizational skills
Skilled in determining which decision-making methods should be used in various situations.
Strong presentation and negotiation skills.
Knowledge of management concepts, scheduling techniques, and working knowledge of budgeting methods and analysis.
Strong critical thinking skills
Report writing skills
Ability to navigate complex organizational and political dynamics
Must be proficient in reading, writing and speaking English.
Physical Demands
Sitting Frequent 34-66%
Standing Occasional 11-33%
Walking Frequent 34-66%
Lifting 1-10 lbs Floor-Waist Frequent 34-66%
Lifting 1-10 lbs Waist-Shoulders Frequent 34-66%
Lifting 1-10 lbs Above Shoulders Frequent 34-66%
Lifting 25 - 50 lbs Floor-Waist (copier paper) Occasional 11-33%
Climb Stairs Occasional 11-33%
Twisting at Waist Occasional 11-33%
Stooping/Bending Occasional 11-33%
Reach Floor to Waist Frequent 34-66%
Reach Waist to Shoulder Frequent 34-66%
Reach Above Shoulder Frequent 34-66%
Wrist/hand/fingers manipulation (keyboarding, mousing, etc.) Frequent 34-66%
Hand Controls (joy stick, controls on equipment, etc.) Frequent 34-66%
Repetitive Motions Occasional 11-33%
Talking Regularly 67-100%
Hearing Occasional 11-33%
Visual - Near Acuity Occasional 11-33%
Visual - Far Acuity Occasional 11-33%
Visual - Depth Perception Occasional 11-33%
Visual - Color Discrimination Occasional 11-33%
Working Conditions
Exposure to Weather - Occasionally
Proximity to Moving Mechanical Parts - Occasionally
Atmospheric Conditions (dust, fumes, etc.) - Occasionally
Exposure to Electricity - Occasionally
Exposure to Toxic/Caustic Chemicals
- Occasionally
Noise Intensity Level: - Moderate
District Values
Trust - We act with integrity, empathy, competence, and transparency, earning the confidence and respect of each other and the public we serve.
Safety - We protect what matters most through the choices we make.
Stewardship - We responsibly manage and thoughtfully oversee all resources entrusted to us for the benefit of future generations.
Collaboration - We transform our deep expertise from individual advantage into shared power - partnering across teams to maximize our impact and secure our future.
Courage - We boldly step into the unknown to do what matters, seeking opportunities to grow and lead.
Equal Opportunity/ADA
Chelan PUD is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer (EOE Minorities/Females/Protected Veterans/Disabled). We value diversity at all levels of the organization. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any protected classifications as defined by law.
EEO Law Posters can be found on the main Careers (chelanpud.org) page in English and Spanish.
The job functions and physical requirements described above are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
DISCLAIMER
The statements contained herein reflect general details as necessary to describe the principal functions for this job, the level of knowledge and skill typically required, and the scope of responsibility. This should not be considered an all-inclusive listing of work requirements. Individuals may perform other duties as assigned, including work in other functional areas to cover absences or relief, to equalize peak work periods or otherwise to balance the workload.
As part of its recruiting process, Chelan PUD may engage a third-party vendor to perform previous employment verification, education verification, and reference checking.
EEO
Chelan PUD is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.
We value diversity at all levels of the organization. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any protected classifications as defined by law.
EEO Law Posters can be found on the main Careers page in English and Spanish.
Chelan PUD will not be offering any work visa sponsorship for this role.
Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, i