Job Description

Salary: $6,870.00 - $9,246.00 Monthly
Location : Thurston County - Olympia, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number: 2026-07261
Department: Dept. of Fish and Wildlife
Opening Date: 09/01/2026
Closing Date: 9/13/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

Description
Title- Senior Fish Health Microbiologist

Classification- Microbiologist 4

Job Status- Full-Time - Permanent WDFW Program- Fish Program Duty Station- Olympia, Washington - Thurston County
Learn more about being a member of Team WDFW !
Photo Caption: Spring Chinook Smolts - Photo Credit: WDFW
Make a difference in fish conservation and fish health statewide.
In this role, you will lead a team of microbiology professionals, oversee critical laboratory, and provide essential fish health services supporting more than 80 hatchery facilities.
Your expertise will help identify and respond to viruses, bacteria, parasites, and other microbes affecting fish populations while directly contributing to the health and sustainability of the state's fish resources.
What to Expect-

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Senior Fish Health Microbiologist will,
Plan, supervise, and coordinate all laboratory activities within the WDFW Microbiology Laboratory, including the design and implementation of microbiological investigations:

• Plan, assign, prioritize, and evaluate the work of microbiology laboratory staff to ensure timely completion of diagnostic testing, surveillance activities, and research projects.
• Conduct performance evaluations, establish performance expectations, and provide ongoing feedback and corrective action when necessary.
• Lead regular staff meetings to communicate priorities, procedural updates, quality assurance findings, and organizational initiatives. This includes supervising all work of the microbiology staff at all subdisciplines (e.g., virology, bacteriology, microscopy, biochemistry, molecular genetics).
• Ensure laboratory activities meet established biosecurity and agency safety standards.
• Ensure all equipment is functioning to specification, maintains inventory of laboratory supplies, and is responsible for accounts payable database.
• Adapt existing technologies to address emergent problems and conducts quality analysis/control and final review of new protocols.
• Maintain continual surveillance over tests performed to assure adherence to proper technique and necessary standards of accuracy.

Implement virological, bacteriological, biochemical, molecular genetics, and gross methods to detect pathogens and parasites:

• Sample processing, plating, steaking, maintenance of cell culture and cell lines, culture isolation, and the cryopreservation of viral positives and cell lines.
• Conduct microscopy, RNA and DNA extractions, qPCR, PCR, RT-PCR, Sanger and genomic sequencing, viral cytopathic effect (CPE) identification of certifiable aquatic animal pathogens, biochemistry assays (e.g., ELISA), antibiotic sensitivity testing, API testing, necropsies, and maintaining logs.

Inform and consult with fish health professions within and external to WDFW:

• Write (or review and validate for staff), and distribute laboratory reports and data to WDFW management, WDFW fish health and hatchery staff, fish health co-managers and co-operators, including tribal, local, state, federal, and international fish health partners.

Working Conditions:
Work setting, including hazards:

• May encounter exposure to the following:
  • Infectious aquatic animal pathogens (viral, bacterial, fungal, and parasitic) and biological specimens during laboratory testing and necropsies.
  • Biohazardous materials such as blood, tissues, bodily fluids, and contaminated laboratory waste.
  • Laboratory chemicals and reagents, including stains, preservatives, disinfectants, solvents, acids, bases, and molecular biology reagents.
  • Cryogenic materials (e.g., liquid nitrogen) and ultra-low temperature freezers during specimen preservation and storage.
  • Ultraviolet (UV) light, lasers, or other instrumentation used in molecular diagnostics.
  • Compressed gases used with laboratory equipment.
  • Noise from laboratory equipment such as centrifuges, biosafety cabinets, freezers, and ventilation systems.
• Risk of cuts or punctures from scalpels, needles, broken glass, and other laboratory sharps.
• Electrical hazards from laboratory instrumentation and equipment.
• Repetitive hand and wrist movements from pipetting, microscope use, and computer work, with prolonged standing or sitting.
• Occasional lifting and carrying of laboratory supplies, sample coolers, compressed gas cylinders (using appropriate equipment), or equipment, generally up to 30-50 pounds.
• Slips, trips, and falls associated with wet laboratory environments.

Schedule: Work is on-site at the Natural Resource Building in Olympia, Washington. Typically, Monday - Friday, 8:00 A.M. - 4:30 P.M., 40 hours per week. The standard work schedule includes the potential for occasional evening or weekend work as needed. Alternative schedules may be considered based on business needs.
Travel Requirements: Limited - occasionally for meetings and assistance at hatcheries.
Tools and Equipment: Biological safety cabinets, microscopes, PCR/qPCR instrumentation, DNA/RNA extraction and sequencing equipment, ELISA analyzers, cell culture equipment, centrifuges, incubators, autoclaves, ultra-low temperature freezers, liquid nitrogen storage systems, laboratory glassware and necropsy instruments, analytical laboratory equipment, computers, laboratory information management systems (LIMS), laboratory coat or disposable gown, nitrile or latex gloves, safety glasses or chemical splash goggles, face shield, respiratory protection, inverted microscope, confocal microscope, pipettors, centrifuge, scalpels, forceps, homogenizer, biosafety cabinet, ultracold freezers, freezers, refrigerators, incubators, sequencer, endpoint PCR, quantitative PCR, autoclave, dry-heat sterilizer, scale, pH meter, clock, heat block, gel rig, cameras, DI water system, dishwasher, computers, plate-washer, optical density spectrometer multi-well plate reader, automated dispenser.
Customer Interactions: Limited interaction with public. Daily interaction with hatchery and field staff.
Qualifications:
Closely related qualifying experience may be substituted for the required education on a year-by-year basis.
Required Qualifications:
A bachelor's degree in science with major study in microbiology, pathobiology, chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology, medical technology, or closely allied field.
*Including at least 20 semester or 30 quarter credit hours in college coursework in microbiology or related fields.
And the following (experience may be gained concurrently):

• Six (6) years of experience working in microbiology laboratories with demonstrated working knowledge of the following:
  • Molecular methods (PCR, sequencing, and protocol development)
  • Bacteriology, virology, chemistry, parasitology, mycology, immunology
  • Laboratory terminology, techniques, and equipment including standard analyses, microscopic examinations and histological staining methods used in the identification of microbes
  • Microbiology research methods and requirements
  • Report preparation and sources of data on current microbiology research
• At least one (1) year of leadership or supervisory duties including conflict resolution, training and development, planning and assigning work and evaluating performance.

Please Note:

• A master's degree in one (1) of the above fields may be substituted for one (1) year of experience.
• A Ph.D. degree in one (1) of the above fields may be substituted for two (2) years of experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

In addition to the required qualifications, our ideal applicant will possess one or more of the following:
Knowledge of organization and operation of microbiology laboratories including diagnostic tests and techniques in fields of serology, and microscopy; current microbiology research for salmonids and other finfish; scientific report writing for salmonids and other finfish.
Experience:

• Planning, organizing, directing, coordinating and evaluating work of technical/professional laboratory personnel.

• Working cooperatively with personnel of state, local public, and private laboratories to perform research studies.

• Writing and establishing standard operating procedures (SOPs).

• Working in a biosafety level 2 (BSL) facility or certified laboratory.

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.
• An unofficial or official college transcript.

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 RCW 73.16.010 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: 2024-1234 - 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]360-902-2278 or email [click to reveal email address] Jayme.Chase@dfw.wa.gov , or the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) at 800-833-6388.
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](855) 524-5627 or .
Other questions: If you have other questions regarding this position, please reach out to and reference job #2026-07261.
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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

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.

03

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.
04

If your experience includes a degree, did you include your college transcript? If you answer No, your application may not be considered.

• Yes, I included my transcript
• No, I do not include my transcript
• I am not utilizing a college degree to qualify

05

Does your degree include at least 20 semester or 30 quarter credit hours in college coursework in microbiology or related fields.

• Yes, my degree includes this coursework
• No, my degree does not include this coursework
• I do not have a degree

06

Select the option below that best describes your experience working in microbiology laboratories.

• No experience
• Less than 4 years of experience
• Between 4 - 5 years of experience
• Between 5 - 6 years of experience
• 6 - 10 years of experience
• 10 years or more of experience

07

Please briefly describe your experience working in microbiology laboratories. ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).
08

Select the area(s) below if you have demonstrated working knowledge with the following. Select all that apply.

• Molecular methods including PCR, sequencing, and protocol development
• Microbiology disciplines, including bacteriology, virology, chemistry, parasitology, mycology, immunology,
• Laboratory terminology, techniques, and equipment including standard analyses, microscopic examinations and histological staining methods used in the identification of microbes
• Microbiology research methods and requirements
• Report preparation and sources of data on current microbiology research
• None of the above

09

Do you have at least one (1) year of leadership or supervisory experience that includes all the following: conflict resolution, training and development, planning and assigning work and evaluating performance?

• Yes
• No

10

In support of the question above, please briefly describe your leadership or supervisory experience, including how your experience encompasses each of the areas listed above. ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).
11

Do you have experience writing and establishing standard operating procedures (SOPs)?

• Yes
• No

12

Do you have experience working in a biosafety level 2 (BSL) facility or certified laboratory?

• Yes
• No

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
• 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
• Twitter
• University Job Board
• UW College of the Environment
• WDFW Employee
• WDFW Recruiter
• WDFW Website
• Word of Mouth
• WorkSource

14

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

Job Tags

Permanent employment, Full time, Part time, Casual work, Internship, Seasonal work, Local area, Monday to Friday, Flexible hours, Shift work, Afternoon shift

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