Fish Passage Biologist (Natural Resources Analyst, Principal)

Position Description:

We are currently seeking an accomplished Senior Fish Passage Biologist to join our dynamic team. This pivotal role is tailor-made for an experienced professional who thrives on leading impactful fish passage programs within hydroelectric dam projects within an ecosystem management context! This position will oversee the development of study designs, study implementation, data analysis, reporting of study results, and make recommendations associated with the improvement of upstream and downstream fish passage within the various project sites. Work is outlined under the framework of Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) Licensees, within our four project sites – Cushman, Cowlitz, Nisqually, and Wynoochee.

This position will also work collaboratively across various Natural Resource teams to ensure that FERC standards and agency goals are being met and recommend adjustments to fish passage programs to achieve goals. In addition, this person will also be responsible for collaborating with related partners to ensure that operational and investment decisions are being made from an ecosystem perspective.

This position also leads monthly agency meetings focused on the topics of fish passage and strategy implementation.  Acting under the guidance of the Science and Research Manager and the Natural Resources Manager, the Fish Passage Biologist will adeptly negotiate in these crucial subject areas.
 
Your insights will contribute to well-informed decisions on ecosystem-level projects.  This includes guiding responsible investment recommendations associated with limiting factors while balancing the natural environment with clean energy production. These are critical functions that are required by the FERC license obligations and require the attention of a full-time expert. If you’re a dedicated expert seeking an opportunity to make a tangible impact and drive vital functions, then this full-time position is designed for you!
 
Fish Passage Specialist Responsibilities will include: 

• Serve as Team Expert – Serve as an expert to the Natural Resources team in the field of fish passage for our upstream and downstream evaluations, modeling, forecasts, applied science study design, and natural resource planning efforts. Provide mentorship and technical skill in these areas to staff within Natural Resources when needed to advance these programs.
• Manage the fish capture efficiency and survival program – Lead the initiative in planning and implementing complex experimental designs that seek to increase fish passage efficiencies around utility operations. This will include overseeing contractors involved with fish passage monitoring and evaluation programs in association with Tacoma Power’s fish mitigation programs.
• Partner with Science and Research Programs – Work with internal staff and external partners/co-managers that are dedicated to advancing FERC license objectives while achieving environmental excellence that align with overall organization strategies that account for re-licensing needs. This individual will take part in broader ecosystem projects across the organization as well as mentor staff.
• Lead Subcommittees – Lead and/or contribute to fisheries committees dedicated to improving fish passage as delegated by the Science and Research manager or the Natural Resources Manager. Work with FERC regulatory partners to develop mutually agreeable solutions to accomplish organizational goals.
• Negotiate – As directed and within the constructs provided by the Natural Resources Manager, negotiate fish passage, design monitoring and evaluation strategies for fish passage, and use data to determine improvement in facility operations. In collaboration with the Natural Resource team, this individual will conduct necessary pre-work to ensure effective and positive relationship and effective outcomes.