Fisheries Biologist

Burns Paiute Tribe

Burns, Oregon

Job Type: Full-Time

Salary: $61,111 to $67,297 per year

Start / End Dates: Starting date after 01/01/26

POSITION SUMMARY

The Fisheries Biologist is responsible for implementing all fisheries-related projects for the Burns Paiute Tribe’s Natural Resources Department and collaborating with various agencies to protect and enhance aquatic species and habitat within the Tribe’s ancestral territory. Duties include, but are not limited to conducting field surveys, data management, technical report writing, supervising technician-level staff in day-to-day activities, interagency coordination, and public/Tribal engagement. The successful applicant will possess strong technical knowledge, supervisory experience, and experience with fisheries and aquatic systems in the Columbia River Basin or similar ecosystems. The position involves both a field and an office component.

 

The field component will primarily take place on the Tribe’s two wildlife mitigation sites located approximately 1 hour from Burns, OR. Field work includes various fish and aquatic vegetation surveys, water temperature monitoring, invasive species control, and data collection.

 

The office component includes data entry and management from field surveys, mapping, technical report writing, and grant writing. The job will also include outreach and educational activities with the Tribal community and Tribal youth.

 

Burns/Hines, Oregon is a rural community in eastern Oregon with a population of approximately 5,000 people. The Malheur Wildlife Refuge, Malheur National Forest, Strawberry Mountain Wilderness, and Steens Mountain Wilderness are all within 1.5-hour drive from town.

DUTIES and RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Collect/compile/analyze data and prepare reports and evaluations for the Tribal Council, sponsors, and local managers.
  •  Implement the goals and objectives outlined in the management plans for the mitigation sites.
  • Coordinate and organize multiple cost share agreements with state, federal, and other Tribal entities on cooperative projects.
  • Develop, write, and implement fisheries restoration and enhancement plans upon approval by Program Manager.
  • Present research data and findings to peer groups, management agencies, and interested public work groups.
  • Expand the scope of the fisheries program to meet the goals of the Tribe, with particular emphasis on tribal youth outreach.
  • Comply with all federal and state regulatory policies through consultations and necessary documentation (i.e. permits, reports, and data collections).
  • Write proposals and apply for grants to expand Fisheries Program projects.
  • Design and implement annual work plans in coordination with Program Manager.
  • Represent the department at regional and local technical meetings.
  • Coordinate fisheries activities with the Program Manager to ensure cohesion within the Program.
  • Assist Wildlife Program staff as needed.
  • Other duties as needed.

Qualifications / Experience Level Required:

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS and EDUCATION
  • Bachelor’s degree (minimum) in Fisheries Science, Aquatic Ecology, Biology, Natural Resources, or closely related field.
  • At least 2 years of relevant fisheries related experience.
  • Strong communication and organizational skills.
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite and ArcGIS; capable of analyzing and managing fisheries data.
  • Familiarity with ESA-listed species, Columbia River Basin fisheries, and tribal fisheries management practices.
  • Experience with grant writing, administration, and reporting.

REQUIREMENTS
  • Able to work with a diverse group of individuals.
  • Physically fit to perform the duties of fieldwork.
  • Willing to work under a variety of environmental conditions (wet, cold, dry, hot weather).
  • Available to work flexible hours, interdepartmentally, and weekends when necessary.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
  • Willingness to travel and camp out in the field on occasion.
  • A responsible driver with a valid driver’s license and prudent driving record.
  • Able to communicate effectively, both written and verbally.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Master’s degree in Fisheries, Aquatic Science, or related discipline.
  • 3+ years of professional experience in fisheries management.
  • Experience supervising technician-level staff.
  • Knowledge of tribal sovereignty and tribal natural resources management.
  • Experience coordinating with BPA, USFWS, NOAA, or other partners.
  • Strong writing skills including peer-reviewed or technical publications.

INDIAN PREFERENCE
Indian preference will be given to candidates showing proof of enrollment in a federally recognized tribe. In the absence of Indian applications meeting the qualifications as listed above, all applicants not entitled to or who fail to claim Indian Preference, will receive consideration without regard to race, color, sex, political preference, age, religion, or national origin.

Successful candidate must:
  • Submit to and pass a drug test.
  • Submit to a criminal background check.
  • Possess a valid driver’s license.
  • Provide three (3) years of driving record to determine eligibility for coverage under Tribal automobile insurance policy.

HOW TO APPLY:
Return completed Burns Paiute Tribe Application, 2) cover letter, 3) resume/CV, and 4) educational transcripts to:
  • Shannan Mehringer, Human Resources Director Burns Paiute Tribe 100 Pasigo St, Burns, OR 97720
  • Phone: 541-573-8013
  • Email: HR@burnspaiute-nsn.gov OR Shannan.Mehringer@burnspaiute-nsn.gov And
  • CC: Trey Wall, CCF®, AWB®, Natural Resources Director Burns Paiute Tribe 71210 Foley Road, Burns, OR 97720
  • Phone: 541-573-8021
  • Email: Trey.Wall@burnspaiute-nsn.gov
  • For more information, contact Trey Wall (above).

**ONLY COMPLETE APPLICATIONS WILL BE CONSIDERED**

Application for employment available at 100 Pasigo Street, Burns, OR 97720 Mon – Fri, 8-5 pm Or, request one via email: hr@burnspaiute-nsn.gov

You may also download an application here: BPT Application (https://burnspaiute-nsn.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Online-App.pdf)

Housing: No

Contact:

Shannan Mehringer

541-573-8013

Apply for This Position: shannan.mehringer@burnspaiute-nsn.gov

Application Closes: 12/31/25

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