Fish Biologist Jobs
Fish Biologist jobs are open across federal and state agencies, environmental consulting firms, universities, and conservation nonprofits, covering specializations in aquatic ecology, fisheries management, and population assessment, from entry-level field technician roles to senior scientist and program manager positions. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Description
WDFW Program- Habitat Program
Duty Station- Montesano, Washington – Grays Harbor County
- Review and issue low complexity HPA’s in accordance with the Revised Code of Washington (RCW), Washington Administrative Code WAC) and agency policy and procedure manuals.
- Develop effective working relationships with emphasis on clear communication and a cooperative approach to resolving issues related to fish habitat conservation.
- Review permit applications and conduct field reviews to provide project assistance to applicants.
- Recommend alternative project designs and/or techniques, best management practices and measures to avoid, reduce or eliminate impacts to fish life.
- Assist with writing comments to local government planning staff during the land use decision-making process as part of the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA).
- Assist City and County planners and the public in using and interpreting Priority Habitats and Species (PHS) mapping.
- Provide, review and comment to local jurisdictions on Habitat Management Plans for small and medium-scale projects in accordance with local Critical Areas Ordinances.
- Coordinate with the local jurisdiction to assist landowners to comply with local land use ordinances.
- Help with DNR Concurrence Reviews for impacts to fish habitat.
- Assist in Water Type Modification Interdisciplinary teams, applying advice on fish habitat conditions.
- Provide information on fish life histories and habitat requirements, terrestrial and aquatic ecosystem functions, and promote conservation of fish and wildlife resources to stakeholders.
Work setting, including hazards:
- Work is performed in both office and outdoor environments and is primarily as part of a team but may occasionally work independently.
- Fieldwork involves operating vehicles in off road conditions and operating field equipment including GPS units, maps, clinometer, range finder, compasses. May operate electroshocking equipment.
- Fieldwork is conducted in remote forested and aquatic environments, conducting fish and wildlife surveys and other related tasks. Fieldwork may require 8-10 hours per day, for several consecutive days.
- Regularly walk over rough terrain for short distances (up to 1 mile) or occasionally over long distances over several miles.
- Navigate uneven terrain, stinging vegetation, insects, biting and pinching animals, and other possible encounters with wildlife.
- This position may involve working in or near water, including tasks that require navigating, negotiating, and performing duties related to water environments.
Customer Interactions:
- Interact with agency staff, other government agencies, tribes, private stakeholders, restoration partners, funders, and the public.
- Interact with the public on a regular basis while conducting fieldwork and/or site visits. Occasionally may be confronted by citizens that are non-compliant or not cooperative.
- One (1) year of professional experience in natural resources working with diverse stakeholder groups to achieve conservation goals.
- One (1) year of professional experience working in fish management or fish research, wildlife management or wildlife research, or habitat management or habitat research.
- One (1) year as a Fish and Wildlife Biologist 1.
- Experience conducting or assisting with Forest Practice reviews to determine the potential impacts to fish, habitat and aquatic resources.
- Experience providing technical assistance to support salmon recovery, fish habitat restoration, fish passage improvement or aquatic ecosystem conservation projects.
- Knowledge of ecological processes pertinent to the Northwest including natural history of Washington salmonids.
- Experience with regulatory processes in Washington such as Hydraulic Code, Growth Management Act (GMA), State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA), and Shoreline Management Act (SMA).
- Demonstrated ability to build professional rapports and partnerships with the public, colleagues, tribes, and local, state, and federal agencies.
- 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 professional references with current contact information.
Supplemental Information
- Notify us of your veteran or military spouse status by email at Elizabeth.Bullard@dfw.wa.gov.
- 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: 2024-1234 – Biologist 1 – Veteran)
- Include your name as it appears on your application in careers.wa.gov.
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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 WAC 357-31-165(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 WAC 357-31-165(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 WAC 357-58-175, 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
Parental Leave
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
Description
WDFW Program- Habitat Program
Duty Station- Montesano, Washington – Grays Harbor County
- Review and issue low complexity HPA’s in accordance with the Revised Code of Washington (RCW), Washington Administrative Code WAC) and agency policy and procedure manuals.
- Develop effective working relationships with emphasis on clear communication and a cooperative approach to resolving issues related to fish habitat conservation.
- Review permit applications and conduct field reviews to provide project assistance to applicants.
- Recommend alternative project designs and/or techniques, best management practices and measures to avoid, reduce or eliminate impacts to fish life.
- Assist with writing comments to local government planning staff during the land use decision-making process as part of the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA).
- Assist City and County planners and the public in using and interpreting Priority Habitats and Species (PHS) mapping.
- Provide, review and comment to local jurisdictions on Habitat Management Plans for small and medium-scale projects in accordance with local Critical Areas Ordinances.
- Coordinate with the local jurisdiction to assist landowners to comply with local land use ordinances.
- Help with DNR Concurrence Reviews for impacts to fish habitat.
- Assist in Water Type Modification Interdisciplinary teams, applying advice on fish habitat conditions.
- Provide information on fish life histories and habitat requirements, terrestrial and aquatic ecosystem functions, and promote conservation of fish and wildlife resources to stakeholders.
Work setting, including hazards:
- Work is performed in both office and outdoor environments and is primarily as part of a team but may occasionally work independently.
- Fieldwork involves operating vehicles in off road conditions and operating field equipment including GPS units, maps, clinometer, range finder, compasses. May operate electroshocking equipment.
- Fieldwork is conducted in remote forested and aquatic environments, conducting fish and wildlife surveys and other related tasks. Fieldwork may require 8-10 hours per day, for several consecutive days.
- Regularly walk over rough terrain for short distances (up to 1 mile) or occasionally over long distances over several miles.
- Navigate uneven terrain, stinging vegetation, insects, biting and pinching animals, and other possible encounters with wildlife.
- This position may involve working in or near water, including tasks that require navigating, negotiating, and performing duties related to water environments.
Customer Interactions:
- Interact with agency staff, other government agencies, tribes, private stakeholders, restoration partners, funders, and the public.
- Interact with the public on a regular basis while conducting fieldwork and/or site visits. Occasionally may be confronted by citizens that are non-compliant or not cooperative.
- One (1) year of professional experience in natural resources working with diverse stakeholder groups to achieve conservation goals.
- One (1) year of professional experience working in fish management or fish research, wildlife management or wildlife research, or habitat management or habitat research.
- One (1) year as a Fish and Wildlife Biologist 1.
- Experience conducting or assisting with Forest Practice reviews to determine the potential impacts to fish, habitat and aquatic resources.
- Experience providing technical assistance to support salmon recovery, fish habitat restoration, fish passage improvement or aquatic ecosystem conservation projects.
- Knowledge of ecological processes pertinent to the Northwest including natural history of Washington salmonids.
- Experience with regulatory processes in Washington such as Hydraulic Code, Growth Management Act (GMA), State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA), and Shoreline Management Act (SMA).
- Demonstrated ability to build professional rapports and partnerships with the public, colleagues, tribes, and local, state, and federal agencies.
- 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 professional references with current contact information.
Supplemental Information
- Notify us of your veteran or military spouse status by email at Elizabeth.Bullard@dfw.wa.gov.
- 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: 2024-1234 – Biologist 1 – Veteran)
- Include your name as it appears on your application in careers.wa.gov.
LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram
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 WAC 357-31-165(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 WAC 357-31-165(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 WAC 357-58-175, 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
Parental Leave
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
See All 9 Fish Biologist Jobs
Find roles that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Fish Biologist JobsFish Biologist Job Market
Who's Hiring
What Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in fish biologist jobs.
- Bachelor's or master's degree in fisheries science, aquatic biology, or closely related field
- Experience conducting electrofishing, seining, or other standardized fish sampling methods
- Proficiency in statistical analysis software such as R, SAS, or Program MARK
- Valid driver's license and ability to operate boats or other field equipment safely
- Experience using GIS software to map habitats, analyze spatial data, or produce reports
- Familiarity with federal or state fisheries regulations, permitting, and reporting requirements
Tips for Your Fish Biologist Job Search
Tailor your resume to field methods
List the specific sampling techniques you've used, electrofishing, seining, snorkeling surveys, and mark-recapture, alongside the waterbody types and species you've worked with. Hiring managers scan for method-species matches, not just general biology experience.
Highlight your data analysis software
Many fish biologist postings require proficiency in R, Program MARK, or ArcGIS. Call out each tool by name in a skills section and tie it to a deliverable, such as a population estimate or habitat suitability map, so reviewers can gauge your depth quickly.
Apply early to roles that fit
Migrate Mate lists fish biologist openings from across the United States in one place, so you can find roles that match and apply directly to each listing.
Target postings by species and ecosystem
Federal and state agencies often write postings around a specific taxa or habitat, anadromous salmonids, Great Lakes coregonids, or coldwater stream communities. Search those species and ecosystem terms alongside the job title to surface openings that match your background exactly.
Prepare a technical presentation answer
Agency and university interviews frequently include a short research or project presentation. Rehearse a five-to-ten minute walkthrough of your strongest study, covering your objectives, sampling design, analysis choices, and management implications, so you can deliver it confidently on short notice.
Negotiate start dates around field season
Many fish biologist positions ramp up in spring before peak sampling windows open. If you're finishing a contract or academic term, propose a start date that lands before the season starts rather than mid-season, which signals awareness of operational realities and strengthens your offer negotiation.
Fish Biologist Jobs: Frequently Asked Questions
Which companies are hiring the most fish biologists?
State of Washington, State of Nebraska, and Adventure Aquarium are hiring the most fish biologists right now, with openings concentrated in Washington, Nebraska, and Georgia, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Federal agencies and large environmental consulting firms tend to post the highest volumes year-round.
How many fish biologist jobs are remote?
About 50% of fish biologist openings are fully remote or hybrid as of November 2026, with most remote-eligible roles concentrated in data analysis, modeling, and report writing rather than hands-on field work. Positions that require active sampling, diving, or boat operations are almost always on-site or in-region.
How do you become a fish biologist?
Start with a bachelor's degree in fisheries science, aquatic biology, wildlife biology, or ecology, then gain field experience through internships, seasonal technician roles, or volunteer work with state or federal agencies. A master's degree opens doors to research and senior management positions. Certifications from the American Fisheries Society, such as the Associate Fisheries Scientist credential, signal professional standing to employers and are worth pursuing once you have qualifying experience.
Can you get a fish biologist job with little or no experience?
Yes, many agencies and consulting firms hire entry-level candidates as seasonal fisheries technicians, which is the most direct path to your first full fish biologist role. Focus your applications on positions that list a bachelor's degree as sufficient and emphasize any coursework in ichthyology, aquatic ecology, or biostatistics. Volunteer sampling trips, undergraduate research projects, and even fishing tournament data collection count as relevant field exposure when your paid experience is thin.
What does the fish biologist interview process look like?
Most agencies and firms use a structured panel format with two to four interviewers, often including a fisheries program manager and a field supervisor. Expect behavioral questions tied to specific field scenarios, questions about your familiarity with relevant species and sampling protocols, and sometimes a short technical exercise such as interpreting a population dataset or reviewing a draft study design. Federal positions typically require written answers to standardized questions before the panel interview.
Where can I find and apply to fish biologist jobs?
You can find and apply to fish biologist jobs on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings from across the United States in one place. Search by location, specialization, or seniority level to narrow the results to roles that match your background, then apply directly to each listing that fits.
See All 9 Fish Biologist Jobs
Find roles that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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