Fisheries Biologist

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Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife

La Grande, Oregon

Job Type: Full-Time

Salary: $4,519 - $6,276

Job Description:

MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN OREGON’S NATURAL RESOURCES!

 

Opportunity Awaits, Apply Today!

 

As a Fisheries Biologist (Natural Resource Specialist 1) for the Eastern Salmon and Steelhead Science Section (ESSSS) in La Grande, Oregon, you will help build a long‑term dataset estimating annual survival of spring/summer Chinook salmon and steelhead from smolt outmigration to adult return, supporting management decisions about how the Federal Columbia River Power System affects salmonid survival during migration. To support this purpose, this position will:

  • Collect, analyze and summarize biological data on fish species
  • Operate an incline plane trap to capture fish
  • PIT tag Chinook salmon and steelhead
  • Lead a small field crew
  • Assist with fish condition and gas bubble trauma sampling
  • Conduct spawning ground surveys

 

This position requires acquiring a Boater Education Certificate obtained through the Oregon State Marine Board within the first six months of appointment.

 

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required.

For a full review of the position details, duties and working conditions, click here.

 

Clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications and desired attributes in your application materials. We cannot accept additional application materials after the application deadline. These materials determine whether you move forward in the selection process and help establish your starting salary. Be sure your work and education history is accurate, thorough, and fully reflects your skills and experience, even if they do not seem directly related to the position. Click here to learn more about Equal Pay Analysis and What You Need to Know to Get the Job

Qualifications / Experience Level Required:

Minimum Qualifications
Option 1: Three years of biological experience performing studies, research, or resource management activities in a fish or wildlife program.
-OR-
Option 2: A Bachelor’s degree in Fisheries or Wildlife Science or a closely-related Bachelor’s degree with at least 45 quarter (30 semester) hours of biological/ecological coursework.

Desired Attributes
  • Experience collecting and recording biological data on fish species
  • Experience fishing screw and/or incline traps
  • Salmonid sampling and PIT tagging experience
  • Experience leading a field crew in remote locations
  • Experience operating motor boats in variable conditions
  • Data summary and analysis experience
  • Experience managing and maintaining databases

APPLICATION DETAILS AND INSTRUCTIONS
  • The State of Oregon does not request or require your age, date of birth, attendance or graduation dates from an educational institution during the application process.
  • The salary listed is the non-PERS qualifying salary range. If the successful candidate is PERS qualifying, the salary range will reflect an additional 6.95%
  • This recruitment will be used to establish a list of qualified people to fill the current vacancy and may be used to fill other vacancies as they occur
  • State of Oregon Employees, must apply through their employee Workday account.
  • Please save a copy of this job announcement for reference, as it is not available for you to view after the announcement deadline
  • First time applying to the State of Oregon? Consider utilizing a WorkSource Oregon Resource event! You can also view this video or this knowledge article for assistance.
  • Reasonable accommodation for interviews will be provided upon request to individuals with disabilities
  • The job posting closes at 11:59 PM (PDT/PST) on the close date. After you submit your application, be sure to respond to the two questionnaires relating to public records requests and veterans’ preference immediately following your submittal. These questions are necessary to complete the application process
  • If you are experiencing difficulty applying for this position or have questions, please call 503.947.6051 and ask to speak to a recruiter

BENEFITS OF JOINING OUR TEAM
ODFW is dedicated to cultivating a diverse and inclusive workforce as we strive to represent and better serve our neighboring communities. Our most important asset is our employees, and each person brings unique, different, and important contributions to the workplace and community we serve. With Oregon’s changing demographics, a workforce that reflects this change will make us stronger and create an opportunity for better decision making.

If you enjoy the outdoors, Oregon is the place for you. We have glaciated mountain peaks to the east, the Pacific Ocean to the west and the massive Columbia River Gorge to the north. You can fish 365 days a year, and there is hunting for big game, waterfowl, and game birds. The Oregon coast attracts thousands of people who clam, crab and fish in the ocean for halibut, salmon, and tuna. The outdoor opportunities are endless when it comes to fish and wildlife in Oregon! Oregon is known for their vineyards, breweries, and adventures for the whole family to enjoy. To learn more about the department, the work we do, and see our beautiful state, view the following video at https://myodfw.com/about

Additional benefits include:
  • 11 paid holidays a year and a competitive benefits package
  • Advancement and learning opportunities that will help grow your career with the State of Oregon

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
  • The employee in this position will be represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) and will be subject to all terms and conditions of the collective bargaining agreement. Pay and benefits on all job listings may change without notice
  • Finalists are subject to both a criminal history and motor vehicles check. Adverse background and/or driving information may disqualify you from further consideration
  • Within three days of hire, applicants will be required to complete the U.S. Department Homeland Security’s I-9 form confirming authorization to work in the United States. ODFW participates in E-Verify. ODFW is not able to support VISA sponsorships
  • Veterans’ and Oregon National Guard preference: Eligible Veterans and Oregon National Guard servicemembers (current and former) who meet the qualifications of the position will be awarded candidate preference. For more information, please visit Veterans Resources.

Housing: No

Contact:

Apply for This Position: https://oregon.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/SOR_External_Career_Site/job/La-Grande--ODFW--Fish-Research/Fisheries-Biologist--Natural-Resource-Specialist-1-_REQ-204977-1

Application Closes: 08/20/26

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