• Job Description

  Req#: 5271646
  Salary: $6,259.00 - $8,415.00 Monthly
  Location : Kittitas County - Ellensburg, WA
  Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
  Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
  Job Number: 2026-02253
  Department: Dept. of Fish and Wildlife
  Opening Date: 03/16/2026
  Closing Date: 6/9/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
  
  Description
  Title- Assistant Regional Habitat Program Manager (ARHPM)
  
  Classification- Environmental Planner 4
  
  Job Status- Full-Time / PermanentWDFW Program- HabitatProgram - Region 3Duty Station- *Ellensburg, Washington - Kittitas County
  
  Hybrid/Telework- The selected candidate may be able to telework/work remotely up to two (2) days per week at the discretion of the supervisor.
  *Depending on the successful candidate's location preference, they may also choose to report to the WDFW region 3 office in Yakima
  This recruitment has been re-opened and extended. If you applied previously, your application is still under consideration, and you do not need to re-apply.
  Posting Timeframe- This recruitment is scheduled to be posted until June 9, 2026. The first review of applications will take place on May 26, 2026. Application review is ongoing, submit your application materials as soon as possible, this recruitment may be closed at any time.
  Learn more about being a member of Team WDFW!
  Photo Caption: Elk in Region 3 - Photo Credit: WDFW
  This position provides leadership, direction, guidance and performance management to a team consisting of senior and journeyman level Habitat Biologists and technicians. The ARHPM is responsible for the team's success in working with various federal state, local, and tribal agencies; conservation, environmental and stakeholder organizations; as well as private entities or individuals.
  The overall goal of the team is to influence decisions and activities in relation to fish and wildlife habitat through regulation, technical assistance and relationship building in Land Use Planning, Restoration, Forest Practices, Energy/Major Projects and the Hydraulic Project Approval (HPA) permitting process. The ARHPM is also to ensure that this influence is done in an open collaborative manner with an emphasis on customer service.
  The position plays a key role in Program level strategic planning and regional-district tactical implementation of agency/program policies or initiatives. The position provides Program leadership by working as part of the Program Mid-Management Team to recommend and/or develop statewide policy, initiatives and direction in direct consultation with the Program Senior Management Team.
  The ARHPM is the senior planner responsible for strategic planning needs within the District(s) they supervise in relation to implementing new policies, new policy direction, and significant program initiatives. Strategic planning on the District level is conducted with consultation and direction from the Regional Habitat Program Manager (RHPM) and in coordination with other members of the District Team.
  What to Expect-
  
  Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Assistant Regional Habitat Program Manager (ARHPM) will,
  Provide Supervision:
  
  • Provide guidance, direction, and information to staff regarding Program/Agency policies, procedures and directions in a clear and timely manner.
  • Conduct regular team meetings to communicate information (at least quarterly) and provide method for timely communication between team meetings.
  • Work with staff to develop strategic approach to accomplishing goals, addressing issues and successfully implementing assignments.
  • In collaboration with Division staff develop and provide training for regionally based professional staff.
  • Provide mentoring to staff to promote and support professional development.
  • Work with individual staff and the regional team to provide guidance and direction regarding workload control and prioritization.
  • Provide performance management to staff.
  • Direct, guide, and provide information to staff for successful implementation of hydraulic code, as well as engagement in engagement in aquatic and terrestrial restoration activities, land use planning, FERC\Major Project activities and forest practices.
  
  Serve as District Policy Lead and Liaison:
  
  • Assist Senior and Executive Management in identifying new policies, new direction of existing policies and significant initiatives.
  • Actively engage the Senior Management Team (SMT) to identify issues that are common across regions and/or the state and look to utilize this resource to find broad solutions and support for engagement from the Senior Management Team which could include:
    • Communicate and/or present strategic analysis information to the Regional Habitat Program Manager (RHPM) for coordination with the Program Leadership Team or Executive Management and assist in development of strategic and tactical steps to accomplish agency and partner goals that are consistent with the Agency mission.
  • As District Liaison, assist the RHPM to actively engage local, state or federal agencies and other external entities important to the success of the identified strategic direction.
  • As District Liaison, assist the RHPM in engaging Tribal governments. Assist the RHPM in conducting regular meetings with tribes with the goal of building and maintaining a successful relationship.
  • Identify key entities within the district and take steps to build and maintain relationships to gain knowledge of their needs, goals and objectives concerning key policies or significant initiatives and to help make them be more aware of our goals and objectives.
  • Build relationships within the Department to gain knowledge of their needs, goals and objectives and to communicate our goal of promoting teamwork that will help both be more successful.
  
  Provide Program Strategic Planning:
  
  • Actively engage with the Program Leadership Team (PLT) to assist in Program or Agency level short-term and long-term strategic planning.
  • Work with RHPM and other ARHPM's in region to develop and bring regional perspective to Program/Agency strategic planning.
  • The ARHPM is responsible for the implementation of appropriate aspects of the strategic plan within the District that they supervise.
  • The ARHPM, with RHPM, is responsible for communicating and encouraging support for the strategic direction identified by the Program and/or Agency in the District.
  
  WORKING CONDITIONS:
  
  Work Setting, including hazards:
  
  • Work is performed in an office and outdoor environment. Office work includes reading, writing, phone and computer use.
  • Will operate vehicles in off-road conditions.
  • Position requires working in remote terrestrial and aquatic environments.
  • This position may involve working in or near water, including tasks that require navigating, negotiating, and performing duties related to water environments.
  • Position requires walking over rough terrain for short distances (
  
  Schedule (i.e., hours and days): Monday through Friday 8 AM - 5 PM. Although schedule may vary with work seasonally and travel requirements. Occasional evening meetings are required. Incumbent may work a flexible work schedule subject to supervisory approval
  
  Travel Requirements: In the field with supervised staff up to 40%. Travel to meetings throughout the state. Periods of overnight travel may exceed the standard 8 AM to 5 PM workday.
  
  Tools and Equipment: Boots, GPS, waders, rain gear, computer, phone, and state-assigned work vehicle.
  
  Customer Interactions: Regular interaction with agency staff, other governmental agencies, tribal, private stakeholders, special interests, and the public.
  QUALIFICATIONS:
  Required Qualifications:
  Option 1 - All of the following (experience may be gained concurrently):
  
  • A bachelor's degree in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, environmental science, or related field.
  • Five (5) years in any environmental or natural resource field.
  • One (1) year of leadership or supervisor experience.
  
  Option 2 - All of the following (experience may be gained concurrently):
  
  • One (1) year of experience as an Environmental Planner 3.
  • One (1) year of leadership or supervisor experience.
  
  Please Note:
  
  • Closely related qualifying experience may be substituted for the required education on a year-by-year basis.
  • A master's degree in the applicable science may substitute for one (1) year of required experience.
  • A Ph.D. in the applicable science may substitute for two (2) years of the required experience.
  
  Licenses:
  
  Valid driver's license
  Preferred Qualifications:
  
  In addition to the required qualifications, our ideal applicant will possess one or more of the following:
  Supervision - Five (5) years of demonstrated skill supervising, leading, and coaching people.
  
  Facilitation and negotiation - Demonstrated ability to apply negotiation and conflict resolution skills in contentious work settings. Leadership reaching consensus and de-escalating conflict.
  
  Regulations - General understanding of various regulatory processes, including the Hydraulic Code, Growth Management Act (GMA), State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA), and Shoreline Management Act (SMA). Demonstrated ability to work within the regulatory environment including reviewing, issuing, monitoring or complying with federal, state or local environmental permits.
  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 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: 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 360-902-2278 or email 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 (855) 524-5627 or
  Other questions: If you have other questions regarding this position, please reach out to and reference job #2026-02253.
  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
  
  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.
  
  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
  
  Which of the following best describes your professional work experience in ana environmental or natural resource field?
  • Less than three (3) years
  • 3-4 years
  • 4-5 years
  • 5-7 years
  • 7-9 years
  • More than nine (9) years
  • No experience
  
  05
  
  Please briefly describe your professional work experience in an environmental or natural resource field. ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).
  06
  
  Do you have at least one year in the Environmental Planner 3 (or higher) classification?
  • Yes
  • No
  
  07
  
  Which of the following best describes your leadership/supervision experience?
  • Less than one (1) year
  • 1-3 years
  • 3-5 years
  • More than five (5) years
  • No experience
  
  08
  
  Please briefly describe your experience with strategic planning, developing and monitoring budgets, contract negotiation, program/project management, and conflict resolution. ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).
  09
  
  Please briefly describe your experience building working relationships among various stakeholder groups, including tribal entities. ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).
  10
  
  Please briefly describe your experience working within a regulatory environment including reviewing, issuing, monitoring or complying with federal, state or local environmental permits. ("See Resume" is not a valid response, if you do not have this experience, put N/A).
  11
  
  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)
  
  12
  
  Tell us more - kindly share which website, organization, person, or other source led you to this job posting.
  13
  
  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
  
  Required Question

• About the company

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