Fisheries Biologist Jobs
Fisheries Biologist jobs are open across federal agencies, state wildlife departments, environmental consulting firms, and universities, covering specializations in aquatic ecology, fish population dynamics, and habitat restoration, from entry-level field technician roles to senior research scientist and program manager positions. See the openings below and apply to the ones that match your experience.
Find Fisheries Biologist JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 5+ Fisheries Biologist jobs
Looking for more fisheries biologist jobs?
Explore related role searches to find more openings that fit.
See related jobsInitial Posting Date:
11/05/2026Application Deadline:
11/19/2026Agency:
Department of Fish and WildlifeSalary Range:
$4,519 - $6,276Position Type:
EmployeePosition Title:
Project Assistant, Fisheries Biologist (Natural Resource Specialist 1)Job Description:
Help the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife fulfill its mission: To protect and enhance Oregon's fish and wildlife and their habitats for use and enjoyment by present and future generations.
We are hiring for one permanent, full-time position located in John Day, Oregon.
What you will do:
In this role, you will work closely with the Assistant Project Leader to coordinate field operations, provide technical guidance and training to technicians, and manage biological data for life history and natural production studies of salmon and steelhead in Northeast Oregon. Duties include:
- Use rotary screw traps, seining, snorkeling, and electrofishing to locate and collect juvenile salmon from streams throughout Northeast Oregon
- Tag juvenile salmon and steelhead with passive integrated transponder (PIT) tags and collect biological data
- Train technicians on field collection techniques and methods
- Follow, develop, and improve field protocols and sampling methods
- Enter data into computer databases
- Manage spreadsheet, database, and GIS models for data analysis
- Tabulate and summarize data in formats suitable for written and oral presentation
- Assist in writing draft sections of annual reports.
- Assist project leader in preparation of slides and graphics for presentation.
- Purchase and maintain field sampling equipment
- Operate drift boats and jet sleds
Note: This position requires the successful candidate to either have or be able to obtain a Boater Education Card within 6 months of hire.
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, please review the position description located here.
Clearly describe how you meet the 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
What we are looking for:
Minimum Qualifications:
To be considered for this position, all applicants must meet one of the following options:
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 biological data
- Experience with rotary screw trap operation
- Data management experience
- Experience with snorkeling and electrofishing
- Boating experience (training will be provided)
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.
To learn more about the agency and the work we do, view the following video at https://myodfw.com/about
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://youtu.be/8CjDPiPMGAk
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. Driving is required for this position. 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.
Helpful Links & Resources
How to Set Job Alerts | Workday Applicant FAQ | Oregon Job Opportunities Webpage | Classification and Compensation |Ready to Relocate to Oregon | Carpool Matching Tool: Get There Oregon
More information about our agency can be found on our social media accounts: Facebook, Instagram, Youtube, and at myodfw.com and http://www.dfw.state.or.us/
The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer
Initial Posting Date:
11/05/2026Application Deadline:
11/19/2026Agency:
Department of Fish and WildlifeSalary Range:
$4,519 - $6,276Position Type:
EmployeePosition Title:
Project Assistant, Fisheries Biologist (Natural Resource Specialist 1)Job Description:
Help the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife fulfill its mission: To protect and enhance Oregon's fish and wildlife and their habitats for use and enjoyment by present and future generations.
We are hiring for one permanent, full-time position located in John Day, Oregon.
What you will do:
In this role, you will work closely with the Assistant Project Leader to coordinate field operations, provide technical guidance and training to technicians, and manage biological data for life history and natural production studies of salmon and steelhead in Northeast Oregon. Duties include:
- Use rotary screw traps, seining, snorkeling, and electrofishing to locate and collect juvenile salmon from streams throughout Northeast Oregon
- Tag juvenile salmon and steelhead with passive integrated transponder (PIT) tags and collect biological data
- Train technicians on field collection techniques and methods
- Follow, develop, and improve field protocols and sampling methods
- Enter data into computer databases
- Manage spreadsheet, database, and GIS models for data analysis
- Tabulate and summarize data in formats suitable for written and oral presentation
- Assist in writing draft sections of annual reports.
- Assist project leader in preparation of slides and graphics for presentation.
- Purchase and maintain field sampling equipment
- Operate drift boats and jet sleds
Note: This position requires the successful candidate to either have or be able to obtain a Boater Education Card within 6 months of hire.
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, please review the position description located here.
Clearly describe how you meet the 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
What we are looking for:
Minimum Qualifications:
To be considered for this position, all applicants must meet one of the following options:
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 biological data
- Experience with rotary screw trap operation
- Data management experience
- Experience with snorkeling and electrofishing
- Boating experience (training will be provided)
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.
To learn more about the agency and the work we do, view the following video at https://myodfw.com/about
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://youtu.be/8CjDPiPMGAk
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. Driving is required for this position. 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.
Helpful Links & Resources
How to Set Job Alerts | Workday Applicant FAQ | Oregon Job Opportunities Webpage | Classification and Compensation |Ready to Relocate to Oregon | Carpool Matching Tool: Get There Oregon
More information about our agency can be found on our social media accounts: Facebook, Instagram, Youtube, and at myodfw.com and http://www.dfw.state.or.us/
The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer
See All 5 Fisheries Biologist Jobs
Find roles that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Fisheries Biologist JobsFisheries Biologist Job Market
Who's Hiring
What Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in fisheries biologist jobs.
- Bachelor's or master's degree in fisheries science, biology, or a closely related field
- Experience conducting fisheries population assessments using standard sampling methods
- Proficiency in GIS software for spatial data collection and habitat mapping
- Familiarity with federal or state fisheries regulations and species management plans
- Valid driver's license and ability to work in remote outdoor field conditions
- Experience with statistical analysis software such as R, SAS, or Program MARK
Tips for Your Fisheries Biologist Job Search
Tailor your resume to field methods
Hiring managers for fisheries biologist roles scan resumes for specific sampling techniques like electrofishing, snorkeling surveys, and mark-recapture methods. Name the exact protocols you've used and the target species, not just generic fieldwork experience.
Highlight your data analysis software
Many fisheries biologist postings require proficiency in R, ArcGIS, or Program MARK. List the specific tools and the analyses you've run in them, like population viability modeling or spatial habitat mapping, so your application clears automated screening.
Apply early to roles that fit
Migrate Mate lists fisheries 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 regulatory context
Federal postings under NOAA or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service often require familiarity with the Endangered Species Act or Magnuson-Stevens Act. State agency roles focus on species-specific management plans. Match your cover letter to the regulatory framework named in each posting.
Prepare a species and waterway portfolio
Interviewers frequently ask about specific fisheries you've worked on. Bring a one-page summary of your key projects listing the waterbody, target species, methods used, and management outcomes so you can reference concrete examples without hesitating.
Negotiate start dates around field season timing
Many fisheries biologist positions are tied to seasonal sampling windows in spring and fall. If you're weighing offers or discussing terms, knowing a team's field schedule lets you negotiate a start date that positions you to contribute from day one.
Fisheries Biologist Jobs: Frequently Asked Questions
Which companies are hiring the most fisheries biologists?
DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND WILDLIFE, State of Arizona, and Fathom Resources are hiring the most fisheries biologists right now, with openings concentrated in Oregon, Arizona, and Pennsylvania, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Federal agencies, state fish and wildlife departments, and environmental consulting firms consistently account for the largest share of active postings.
How many fisheries biologist jobs are remote?
About 100% of fisheries biologist openings are fully remote or hybrid as of November 2026, reflecting the hands-on, field-based nature of most roles. Data analysis positions, grant writing roles, and program coordination jobs within larger agencies tend to offer the most flexibility for remote or hybrid schedules.
How do you become a fisheries biologist?
You typically start with a bachelor's degree in fisheries science, wildlife biology, or ecology, then gain field experience through internships or seasonal technician work with agencies or consulting firms. Many competitive positions require a master's degree focused on a specific species group or aquatic ecosystem. Building hands-on sampling experience and developing proficiency in GIS and statistical analysis tools strengthens your candidacy significantly.
How do you get hired as a fisheries biologist with little experience?
Focus on seasonal and temporary technician postings, which are the standard entry point for the field and often convert to permanent roles. Volunteer with local watershed councils or state hatcheries to build species-specific field hours. A thesis or capstone project on a local fishery gives you a concrete project to discuss in interviews, even without paid work history in the role.
What does the fisheries biologist interview process look like?
Most agencies and consulting firms use a structured panel interview with questions drawn from your resume and scenario-based prompts about fieldwork challenges. You'll likely be asked to walk through a past sampling project, describe how you handled equipment failure or adverse field conditions, and explain your approach to data quality control. Some federal postings require a written assessment or presentation of previous research before the panel stage.
Where can I find and apply to fisheries biologist jobs?
You can find and apply to fisheries biologist jobs on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings from across the United States. Search the listings to find roles that fit your species background, regional experience, and seniority level, then apply directly to each one that matches.
See All 5 Fisheries Biologist Jobs
Find roles that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Fisheries Biologist Jobs