Aquatic Ecology Policy Analyst

Aquatic Ecology Policy Analyst La Conner, WA 98257 $40.57 - $53.51 an hour - Full-time $40.57 - $53.51 an hour - Full-time Position Summary The position will entail a mixture of technical skills related to fisheries science, fish passage and aquatic ecology as well as knowledge and analysis of state and federal environmental protection rules and laws. The position will work directly with the Environmental Policy Director on studies and actions related to the implementation of the Seattle City Light 50-year federal hydroelectric dam license and associated early action studies. The position will collaborate with the Environmental Policy Manager and Fisheries Department staff in the evaluation of Federal, State and local plan and permit actions and assesses their impacts to the Swinomish Treaty fisheries and habitat resources. Experience working with both Tribal and non-tribal partners is required. Excellent analytical, writing and communication skills are essential. Job Duties Participate in and provide policy and technical expertise to the Fish Passage Working Group and Fish & Aquatics Working Group for the Seattle City Light hydropower early actions and license implementation. Review and analyze proposals, study plans, and study results for water quality protections, habitat restoration and other Skagit River floodplain habitat proposals. Review best available science, state and federal policies related to fish passage design, feasibility, and implementation to provide sustainable harvest opportunity to support Tribal Treaty rights and ESA-listed species recovery. Participate in desktop evaluations of biological and ecological research topics related to fish passage feasibility and river flow conditions for juvenile rearing capacity. Work directly with Environmental Policy Manager to develop and implement Natural Resource protection strategies and policies that will protect and restore Swinomish Tribe fishery resources. Build relationships with Swinomish Fisheries, SRSC staff, and co-managers to coordinate study and restoration plan review and implementation. Review hydropower relicensing documents and associated state and federal policies related to fish passage and fisheries science. Review US Army Corps of Engineers permits, WA Department of Fish & Wildlife permits, and WA Department of Ecology Permits within the Skagit and Samish River watersheds to evaluate impacts to Tribal resources and Treaty rights. Minimum Requirements Master's degree in Fisheries Science or Natural Resources required. Minimum 5 years working on Natural Resource Policy issues Minimum 1 year working on fish passage or hydropower-related issues. Must have experience working with or for Tribal Governments. Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Knowledge of salmon life history, salmon habitat requirements, and challenges associated with their sustained growth, recovery and protection. Knowledge of fisheries science, freshwater aquatic ecology, limnology, or other related field. Familiarity with State natural resource regulations, and familiarity with federal laws including the Clean Water Act, Federal Power Act, Army Corps of Engineers regulations, and the Endangered Species Act. Ability to communicate clearly on complicated issues. Demonstrated excellent writing, analytical and communication skills.

Pay:

$40.57 - $53.51 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Employee assistance program Family leave Flexible spending account Health insurance Life insurance Paid sick time Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person