Fisheries Technician Jobs
Fisheries Technician jobs are open across federal and state wildlife agencies, environmental consulting firms, and aquaculture operations, at every level from entry-level field assistant to senior research technician, with specializations in population sampling, water quality monitoring, and hatchery management. Scan the live roles below and apply to whichever ones fit.
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Summary
Biological Science Technicians perform field and technical work to monitor, manage, and protect natural resources, including plants, wildlife, aquatic resources, and their habitats.
Anticipated Entry on Duty: April 2027.
Learn more about this agency
This job is open to
The public
Career transition (CTAP, ICTAP, RPL)
Clarification from the agency
This announcement is for Pacific West Region National Parks. Please refer to the "Location" section to see which National Parks are included on this announcement.
Duties
Some of the Biological Science Technician (Fisheries-Diver) Standard Duties include but are not limited to:
- Monitors the abundance, distribution and size of selected marine invertebrates, algae and fish using underwater sampling techniques on SCUBA. Techniques include, but are not limited to, band transects, quadrats, random point contacts, video transects, fish transects, fish sizing, roving diver fish counts, size frequency measurements, recruitment modules, video/photo documentation and use of remote temperature loggers.
- Acts as a lead diver for at least one other diver providing leadership and direction to conduct the above-mentioned work in often adverse environmental conditions.
- Provides logistical support for all non-field aspects of a subtidal marine monitoring program. This includes office work associated with field collection of monitoring data under the direction of lead Biologist and in accordance with kelp forest monitoring handbook. This requires proficiency of data entry, organizational skills, and quality assurance/quality control of data and basic understanding of MS Access Database.
- Assists in all aspects of preparing trip and annual reports.
- Assists in making field observations and documenting them appropriately.
- Maintains equipment and NPS diving certification. This includes maintaining all equipment used for the kelp forest monitoring program such as SCUBA life support equipment, underwater cameras, dive computers, sampling equipment used for conducting the monitoring.
- Identifies the need for repairs and replacement of equipment and supplies. Maintains an accurate log of maintenance and repairs.
- Meets and maintains all NPS-Field Manual 4 diving regulations. Provides logistical support including preparing menus, dive plans, manifests, data sheets, purchasing provisions, loading food and equipment for multiday monitoring cruises that take place in remote conditions.
- Provides information to others on resource management issues by giving oral presentations.
- Assists with preparing trip reports and drafts detailed annual reports on the kelp forest monitoring program to meet NPS inventory and monitoring program and park requirements. These reports include descriptions of methods, literature research, preliminary data analysis, graphs and charts, results, and recommendations for planning, protection, and mitigation activities.
Requirements
Conditions of employment
- U.S. Citizenship required.
- Appointment subject to background investigation and favorable adjudication.
- Males must meet Selective Service Registration Act requirement.
- Selectee will be required to participate in the Direct Deposit Electronics Funds Transfer Program.
- Occupancy of government quarters may be required.
- Government housing may be available but is not guaranteed.
- Use find a park to contact specific parks for more information on government housing.
- You will be required to operate a government (or private) motor vehicle as part of your official duties; a valid driver's license is required. You will be required to submit a Motor Vehicle Operator's License and Driving Record. You must also submit (within a State sealed envelope or submitted directly by the State authorities), and at your own expense, all certified driving records from all States that disclose all valid driver's licenses, whether current or past, possessed by you.
- You may be required to submit to a drug test and receive a negative drug test result prior to appointment. In addition, this position is subject to random testing for illegal drug use.
- You will be required to travel up to a total of 55 days on a vessel for this appointment (50% of the time or more) that requires living in cramped shared quarters for at least five consecutive days at a time.
- You must be determined to be physically fit (able to perform strenuous/physically demanding duties); and pass a medical examination by a government authorized physician.
- You may be required to wear a uniform and comply with the National Park Service uniform standards. A uniform allowance will be provided.
- You may be required to work on-call, evenings, weekends, holidays, overtime and/or shift work.
- You may be required to complete training and operate a four-wheel drive vehicle.
- You may be required to operate a government (or private) motor vehicle as part of your official duties; a valid driver's license will be required in such cases.
- You must be at least 18 years of age or older to operate government vehicles.
- You may be required to complete training, obtain and maintain a government credit card with travel and purchase authority.
Qualifications
REQUIREMENTS CONTINUED:
- You must be at least (1)18 years old or (2) at least 16 years old and: (a) Have graduated from high school or been awarded a certificate equivalent to graduating from high school; or (b) Have completed a formal vocational training program; or (c) Have received a statement from school authorities agreeing with their preference for employment rather than continuing their education; or (d) Be currently enrolled in a secondary school and either work only during school vacation periods or work part-time during the school year under a formal student employment program.
QUALIFICATIONS:
All qualifications must be met by the closing date of this announcement-11/16/2026-unless otherwise stated in this vacancy announcement.
Credit will be given for all appropriate qualifying experience. To receive credit for experience, your 2 page resume MUST clearly indicate the nature of the duties and responsibilities for each position, starting and ending dates of employment (month/year), and the resume must reflect full and/or part-time or total number of hours worked (i.e., work 40+ hours a week, rather than indicating full-time). If part-time, the hours must be annotated to be able to pro-rate the amount of qualified specialized experience.Resumes must not exceed two single-sided pages and resumes longer than two pages will not be accepted. You may only submit one resume. Only the document submitted as the "Resume" under the Documents section will be used to determine your qualifications/eligibility and for rating purposes. In the event you submit more than one resume, only the latest submission will be reviewed.
SELECTIVE FACTOR: You mustpossess a current SCUBA diving certification from a recognized organization such as (1) Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) OR (2) National Association of Underwater Instructors (NAUI); AND a scientific diving certification from an organization such as American Academy of Underwater Sciences (AAUS); AND I have a minimum of 100 cold water open ocean kelp forests dives logged; AND I am able to meet all Department of the Interior, National Park Service diving standards within 30 days of entrance on duty. Experience and Certification MUST be notated in resume or application packet.
- AND-
A. One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-4 level in the federal service (obtained in either the public or private sector). Specialized experience is experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills and abilities needed to successfully perform the duties of this position. Specialized experience is defined as demonstrated experience: conducting various aspects of a subtidal biological marine monitoring program using SCUBA, such as band transects, quadrats, random point contacts, video transects, fish transects, fish sizing, roving diver fish counts, size frequency measurements, artificial recruitment modules, video/photo documentation and use of remote temperature loggers.
-OR-
B. Successfully completed at least four years of education above high school (120 semester hour or 180 quarter hours) leading to a bachelor's degree with a major study in a related field of scientific or technical study, such as in biology, chemistry, statistics, entomology, animal husbandry, botany, physics, agriculture, mathematics, or other directly related subject matter; or at least 24 semester hours in any combination of courses such as those shown above. At least 6 semester hours must be directly related to ichthyology, fishery biology, aquatic botany, aquatic fauna, oceanography, fish culture, or related courses in the field of fishery biology. (You must include a copy of your transcripts).
-OR-
C. Equivalent combination of experience and education that, together, equal 100% of the qualification standards listed above when combined. For example, six (6) months of specialized experience (50% of the experience requirement) combined with one year of education as outlined above (50% of the education above), along with 50% of the course-specific education stated above.
NOTE: If you are qualifying based in part on education, you MUST submit a copy of your transcripts.
Qualifying experience may be obtained in the private or public sectors. The OPM Qualification Standards Handbook is available for review at: OPM Qualification Standards.
Volunteer Experience: Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Education
To qualify based on education, you must submit a legible copy of transcripts from an accredited institution with your name, school name, credit hours, course level, major(s), and grade-point average or class ranking. Transcripts do not need to be official, but if you are selected for this position and you used your education to qualify, you must provide official transcripts before you begin work.
If you are using education completed in foreign colleges or universities to meet qualification requirements, you must show that your education credentials have been evaluated by a private organization that specializes in the interpretation of foreign education programs and that (1) deemed your education equivalent to that gained in an accredited U.S. education program, or (2) given full credit for courses at a U.S. accredited college or university.
Additional information
A selectee receiving a first appointment to the Federal Government (Civil Service) is entitled only to the lowest step of the grade for which selected. The salary range on this vacancy does not grant an entitlement to a higher rate of pay.
Additional vacancies may be filled using this job announcement.
Click here for the OPM Salaries and Wages to calculate locality pay.
Non-Competitive Rehire Eligibility: Temporary seasonal employees can only maintain their non-competitive rehire eligibility if they work no more than a combined total of Temporary NTE 1039 hours anywhere in the National Park Service (NPS) within their established service year. Accordingly, non-competitive rehire eligibility allows for re-appointment to the same position or another position appropriate for temporary appointment with the same qualification requirements (5 CFR 316.402[b][7]), based on series and grade, anywhere in the major subdivision (NPS).
If you have held a temporary seasonal appointment in the past 12 months and have already worked the maximum temporary appointment combined total of 1039 hours during that period, you are still welcome to apply. However, please be aware that exceeding the limit of 1039 hours in your established service year will result in the loss of your non-competitive rehire eligibility.
The limit can be exceeded by working multiple temporary seasonal positions that result in a combined total greater than 1039 hours. The limit also can be exceeded by working a single temporary seasonal appointment that exceeds 1039 hours, unless granted an exception by OPM.
*This position may be filled under a temporary seasonal appointment not-to-exceed 1560 hours rather than 1039 hours depending on the park and program*
Employment may be terminated at any time due to fluctuations in funding levels, project needs, employee performance, or other considerations.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The work requires physical exertion such as regular SCUBA diving and snorkeling in cold water and rough ocean condition, in addition to recurring walking, hiking, or climbing over wet, rough, uneven, or rocky surfaces; bending; crouching, stooping, lifting or reaching to observe, collect, or record field data; or in some situations the work may require physical exertion to scuba dive or operate a boat. Heavy items (e.g., equipment, packs, and SCUBA equipment up to 100 pounds) must be lifted or carried on a routine basis.
WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work is performed in an office and outdoors. The work performed involves regular and recurring exposure to extreme oceanic and terrestrial weather conditions and terrain, poisonous plants, biting insects, spiny invertebrates such as sea urchins, and wild animals. Work is often performed off vessels that are not stationary due to ocean conditions.
All Department of Interior (DOI) employees, their spouses, and minor children may not acquire or retain any claim, permit, lease, small tract entry, or other rights granted by the Department in Federal lands, with limited exceptions. Additional ethics prohibitions can be found here, https://www.doi.gov/ethics/ethics-prohibitions.
Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Review our benefits
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
How you will be evaluated
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
A review of your resume and supporting documentation will be made and compared against your responses to the Assessment Questionnaire to determine if you are qualified for this job. If your resume is incomplete or does not support the responses provided in the Assessment Questionnaire, or if you fail to submit all required documentation, you will be rated 'ineligible', 'not qualified', or your score will be adjusted accordingly. If a determination is made that you have inflated your qualifications or experience, you can lose consideration for this position.
Your resume must not exceed 2 pages. Only the document submitted as the "Resume" under the Documents section will be used to determine your qualifications/eligibility and for rating purposes. In the event you submit more than one resume, only the latest submission will be reviewed.
Candidates will be rated and ranked using Category Rating procedures. These procedures place candidates with veterans' preference above non-preference eligibles within each category. Veterans with a service connected disability of at least 10-percent are listed in the highest quality category, except when the position being filled is scientific or professional at the GS-09 grade level or higher. Under Category Rating, candidates will be rated and ranked into one of three categories:
- Best Qualified - applicants possessing experience that substantially exceeds the minimum qualifications of the position including all selective factors and are highly proficient in all requirements of the job and can perform effectively in the position.
- Well Qualified - applicants possessing experience that exceeds the minimum qualifications of the position including all selective factors and are proficient in most of the requirements of the job.
- Qualified - applicants possessing experience that meets the minimum qualifications of the position including all selective factors and are proficient in some, but not all of the requirements of the job.
- Database Management Systems
- Fishery Biology
- Interpersonal Skills
- Technical Competence
- Written Communication
Current or former displaced Federal employees who are surplus, displaced, or involuntarily separated have special priority selection rights under the Agency Career Transition Assistance Program (CTAP) or the Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP). To be considered under CTAP/ICTAP, you must be well-qualified. To meet the definition of well-qualified, you must (1) score at least 85 on the assessment questionnaire; (2) meet the minimum qualification requirements (education, experience or a combination therein), including any selective placement factors; and (3) be able to perform the duties of the position upon entry with reasonable accommodation, when applicable.
Overstating your qualifications and/or experience in your application materials or application questionnaire may result in your removal from consideration. Providing false or misleading information on your resume or supporting documentation may result in removal from consideration or other action consistent with applicable federal hiring regulations. Applicants who include vulgar, offensive, or inappropriate language or information in their application package will be ineligible for further consideration for this position.
Required Documents
ALL required documentation must be submitted to receive full consideration for eligibilities and veterans' preference selected.
The following documents are required and must be submitted by 11:59 PM (EST) on 11/16/2026:
- Resume which includes a list of all significant jobs held and duties performed, with dates in month-year format (include month/day/year format if needed for 52 weeks of experience), and indicate hours worked per week (or full-time). Your resume must clearly show how long you have held each grade/rank. Resumes must not exceed two single-sided pages and resumes longer than two pages will not be accepted. The minimum font size is 10-point for all body text. All resumes must maintain a minimum 0.5-inch margins on all sides to ensure readability and prevent excessive content compression. Including supplemental pages or attachments disguised as resume extensions are prohibited and will not be reviewed to determine your eligibility/qualifications. Your 2-page resume must contain information sufficient to make a valid determination that you fully meet the specialized experience requirements. If you have federal experience, you should include series, and grade for each position held, and if experience is part of a career ladder position, you must clearly distinguish the job duties and length of time working for each grade level. More information on how to write a Federal Resume: https://help.usajobs.gov/faq/application/documents/resume/what-to-include
- Complete All Required Assessments.
- Other Supporting Documents, if applicable, such as:
- Veterans' Preference Documentation:
- If you are a Discharged, Non-Disabled Veteran, you must submit a copy of your DD-214 showing character of discharge (Member 4 copy), or other Documentation of Service and Separation under Honorable Conditions, as listed on the SF-15. If you don't have your DD-214, you may request it after discharge from the National Archives.
- If you are a veteran within 120 days of discharge, you must submit signed documentation from the Armed Forces certifying: 1) your expected release/retirement from active duty, 2) under honorable conditions, 3) your pay grade/rank/rate at time of discharge, 4) dates of active duty service, 5) any campaign or expeditionary medals received, & 6) dated within 120 days of your separation.
- If you are a Disabled Veteran, Purple Heart Recipient, or Mother or Spouse of a Disabled or Deceased Veteran, you must submit all additional proof required by the SF15, and if applicable, a completed SF15. You may request a copy of your Department of Veterans Affairs letter from www.ebenefits.va.gov or call 1-800-827-1000 to establish proof of disability.
- Veterans' Preference Documentation:
- College transcripts if qualifying based on education.
- Documentation of SCUBA Certification.
- Documentation for Interagency/Career Transition Assistance Plan consideration if you are a displaced Federal employee within the local commuting area. You must include: 1) Proof you are a displaced Federal employee, e.g., RIF Separation Notice, Notice of Proposed Removal, etc; 2) SF-50s (Notifications of Personnel Action) showing career/conditional tenure competitive status, promotion potential and duty location; and 3) your most recent performance appraisal. To exercise selection priority, displaced or surplus Federal employees must be rated well-qualified or above 85 on the rating criteria for this position.
Do not submit photographs with your application package. Documents with photographs may not be seen by hiring officials - you must remove your image from any badges, licenses, etc.
Do not upload Adobe portfolio documents. Adobe portfolio documents are not viewable by our agency's staffing offices.
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
How to Apply
Please read the entire announcement and all the instructions before you begin an application. To apply for and be considered for this position, you must complete all required questionnaires, assessments and submit all required documentation as specified in the How to Apply and Required Documents section. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on the 11/16/2026- unless otherwise stated in this vacancy announcement to receive consideration.
**Resumes must not exceed two single-sided pages and resumes longer than two pages will not be accepted. You may only submit one resume. Only the document submitted as the "Resume" under the Documents section will be used to determine your qualifications/eligibility and for rating purposes. In the event you submit more than one resume, only the latest submission will be reviewed.**
The application process is as follows:
- Click the Apply Online button.
- Answer the questions presented in the application and attach all necessary supporting documentation. To PREVIEW the application questionnaire, select the following link:https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/13095792
- Click the Submit Application button prior to 11:59 PM (ET) on the announcement closing date.
To view the announcement status or your application status, visit: https://help.usajobs.gov/how-to/application/status.
Applicants who apply under this job opportunity announcement agree to have their application, associated documents and applicable personal information shared with other Bureaus/Offices within the Department of the Interior (DOI) who have vacancies within the same occupational series, grade, full performance level and in the same geographic location(s), including within the same metro/commuting area. Applying to this announcement does not replace the need to apply to other job opportunity announcements for which you wish to receive consideration.
WE DO NOT ACCEPT HARD-COPY OR E-MAIL APPLICATION PACKAGES.
Agency contact information
1901 Spinnaker Drive
Ventura, CA 93001
US
Next steps
Please refer to your USAJOBS account for application status; the Human Resources Office cannot respond to individual status inquiries.
Many similar positions are advertised by various offices within the DOI. You MUST apply to each announcement for consideration. Officials may hire at any grade level, location or work schedule. All positions may or may not be filled. Dates and length of employment will vary between DOI sites depending on funding, weather conditions, and visitation. Positions are TEMPORARY positions and have no promotion potential.
Once the Occupational Questionnaire is received, you will receive an email acknowledgement that your submission was successful. If you are among the most qualified candidates and your name is referred to the hiring official, you may be contacted directly for a possible interview. You will be notified of the status of your Application Package at the time candidates are referred for consideration, and when the selection process is complete.
Applicants will get a response from this announcement by approximately January 2027.
You can find your path with the Department of Interior at https://careers.doi.gov/.
Overview
- 0404 Biological Science Technician
- Credentialing
- Suitability/Fitness
Summary
Biological Science Technicians perform field and technical work to monitor, manage, and protect natural resources, including plants, wildlife, aquatic resources, and their habitats.
Anticipated Entry on Duty: April 2027.
Learn more about this agency
This job is open to
The public
Career transition (CTAP, ICTAP, RPL)
Clarification from the agency
This announcement is for Pacific West Region National Parks. Please refer to the "Location" section to see which National Parks are included on this announcement.
Duties
Some of the Biological Science Technician (Fisheries-Diver) Standard Duties include but are not limited to:
- Monitors the abundance, distribution and size of selected marine invertebrates, algae and fish using underwater sampling techniques on SCUBA. Techniques include, but are not limited to, band transects, quadrats, random point contacts, video transects, fish transects, fish sizing, roving diver fish counts, size frequency measurements, recruitment modules, video/photo documentation and use of remote temperature loggers.
- Acts as a lead diver for at least one other diver providing leadership and direction to conduct the above-mentioned work in often adverse environmental conditions.
- Provides logistical support for all non-field aspects of a subtidal marine monitoring program. This includes office work associated with field collection of monitoring data under the direction of lead Biologist and in accordance with kelp forest monitoring handbook. This requires proficiency of data entry, organizational skills, and quality assurance/quality control of data and basic understanding of MS Access Database.
- Assists in all aspects of preparing trip and annual reports.
- Assists in making field observations and documenting them appropriately.
- Maintains equipment and NPS diving certification. This includes maintaining all equipment used for the kelp forest monitoring program such as SCUBA life support equipment, underwater cameras, dive computers, sampling equipment used for conducting the monitoring.
- Identifies the need for repairs and replacement of equipment and supplies. Maintains an accurate log of maintenance and repairs.
- Meets and maintains all NPS-Field Manual 4 diving regulations. Provides logistical support including preparing menus, dive plans, manifests, data sheets, purchasing provisions, loading food and equipment for multiday monitoring cruises that take place in remote conditions.
- Provides information to others on resource management issues by giving oral presentations.
- Assists with preparing trip reports and drafts detailed annual reports on the kelp forest monitoring program to meet NPS inventory and monitoring program and park requirements. These reports include descriptions of methods, literature research, preliminary data analysis, graphs and charts, results, and recommendations for planning, protection, and mitigation activities.
Requirements
Conditions of employment
- U.S. Citizenship required.
- Appointment subject to background investigation and favorable adjudication.
- Males must meet Selective Service Registration Act requirement.
- Selectee will be required to participate in the Direct Deposit Electronics Funds Transfer Program.
- Occupancy of government quarters may be required.
- Government housing may be available but is not guaranteed.
- Use find a park to contact specific parks for more information on government housing.
- You will be required to operate a government (or private) motor vehicle as part of your official duties; a valid driver's license is required. You will be required to submit a Motor Vehicle Operator's License and Driving Record. You must also submit (within a State sealed envelope or submitted directly by the State authorities), and at your own expense, all certified driving records from all States that disclose all valid driver's licenses, whether current or past, possessed by you.
- You may be required to submit to a drug test and receive a negative drug test result prior to appointment. In addition, this position is subject to random testing for illegal drug use.
- You will be required to travel up to a total of 55 days on a vessel for this appointment (50% of the time or more) that requires living in cramped shared quarters for at least five consecutive days at a time.
- You must be determined to be physically fit (able to perform strenuous/physically demanding duties); and pass a medical examination by a government authorized physician.
- You may be required to wear a uniform and comply with the National Park Service uniform standards. A uniform allowance will be provided.
- You may be required to work on-call, evenings, weekends, holidays, overtime and/or shift work.
- You may be required to complete training and operate a four-wheel drive vehicle.
- You may be required to operate a government (or private) motor vehicle as part of your official duties; a valid driver's license will be required in such cases.
- You must be at least 18 years of age or older to operate government vehicles.
- You may be required to complete training, obtain and maintain a government credit card with travel and purchase authority.
Qualifications
REQUIREMENTS CONTINUED:
- You must be at least (1)18 years old or (2) at least 16 years old and: (a) Have graduated from high school or been awarded a certificate equivalent to graduating from high school; or (b) Have completed a formal vocational training program; or (c) Have received a statement from school authorities agreeing with their preference for employment rather than continuing their education; or (d) Be currently enrolled in a secondary school and either work only during school vacation periods or work part-time during the school year under a formal student employment program.
QUALIFICATIONS:
All qualifications must be met by the closing date of this announcement-11/16/2026-unless otherwise stated in this vacancy announcement.
Credit will be given for all appropriate qualifying experience. To receive credit for experience, your 2 page resume MUST clearly indicate the nature of the duties and responsibilities for each position, starting and ending dates of employment (month/year), and the resume must reflect full and/or part-time or total number of hours worked (i.e., work 40+ hours a week, rather than indicating full-time). If part-time, the hours must be annotated to be able to pro-rate the amount of qualified specialized experience.Resumes must not exceed two single-sided pages and resumes longer than two pages will not be accepted. You may only submit one resume. Only the document submitted as the "Resume" under the Documents section will be used to determine your qualifications/eligibility and for rating purposes. In the event you submit more than one resume, only the latest submission will be reviewed.
SELECTIVE FACTOR: You mustpossess a current SCUBA diving certification from a recognized organization such as (1) Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) OR (2) National Association of Underwater Instructors (NAUI); AND a scientific diving certification from an organization such as American Academy of Underwater Sciences (AAUS); AND I have a minimum of 100 cold water open ocean kelp forests dives logged; AND I am able to meet all Department of the Interior, National Park Service diving standards within 30 days of entrance on duty. Experience and Certification MUST be notated in resume or application packet.
- AND-
A. One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-4 level in the federal service (obtained in either the public or private sector). Specialized experience is experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills and abilities needed to successfully perform the duties of this position. Specialized experience is defined as demonstrated experience: conducting various aspects of a subtidal biological marine monitoring program using SCUBA, such as band transects, quadrats, random point contacts, video transects, fish transects, fish sizing, roving diver fish counts, size frequency measurements, artificial recruitment modules, video/photo documentation and use of remote temperature loggers.
-OR-
B. Successfully completed at least four years of education above high school (120 semester hour or 180 quarter hours) leading to a bachelor's degree with a major study in a related field of scientific or technical study, such as in biology, chemistry, statistics, entomology, animal husbandry, botany, physics, agriculture, mathematics, or other directly related subject matter; or at least 24 semester hours in any combination of courses such as those shown above. At least 6 semester hours must be directly related to ichthyology, fishery biology, aquatic botany, aquatic fauna, oceanography, fish culture, or related courses in the field of fishery biology. (You must include a copy of your transcripts).
-OR-
C. Equivalent combination of experience and education that, together, equal 100% of the qualification standards listed above when combined. For example, six (6) months of specialized experience (50% of the experience requirement) combined with one year of education as outlined above (50% of the education above), along with 50% of the course-specific education stated above.
NOTE: If you are qualifying based in part on education, you MUST submit a copy of your transcripts.
Qualifying experience may be obtained in the private or public sectors. The OPM Qualification Standards Handbook is available for review at: OPM Qualification Standards.
Volunteer Experience: Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Education
To qualify based on education, you must submit a legible copy of transcripts from an accredited institution with your name, school name, credit hours, course level, major(s), and grade-point average or class ranking. Transcripts do not need to be official, but if you are selected for this position and you used your education to qualify, you must provide official transcripts before you begin work.
If you are using education completed in foreign colleges or universities to meet qualification requirements, you must show that your education credentials have been evaluated by a private organization that specializes in the interpretation of foreign education programs and that (1) deemed your education equivalent to that gained in an accredited U.S. education program, or (2) given full credit for courses at a U.S. accredited college or university.
Additional information
A selectee receiving a first appointment to the Federal Government (Civil Service) is entitled only to the lowest step of the grade for which selected. The salary range on this vacancy does not grant an entitlement to a higher rate of pay.
Additional vacancies may be filled using this job announcement.
Click here for the OPM Salaries and Wages to calculate locality pay.
Non-Competitive Rehire Eligibility: Temporary seasonal employees can only maintain their non-competitive rehire eligibility if they work no more than a combined total of Temporary NTE 1039 hours anywhere in the National Park Service (NPS) within their established service year. Accordingly, non-competitive rehire eligibility allows for re-appointment to the same position or another position appropriate for temporary appointment with the same qualification requirements (5 CFR 316.402[b][7]), based on series and grade, anywhere in the major subdivision (NPS).
If you have held a temporary seasonal appointment in the past 12 months and have already worked the maximum temporary appointment combined total of 1039 hours during that period, you are still welcome to apply. However, please be aware that exceeding the limit of 1039 hours in your established service year will result in the loss of your non-competitive rehire eligibility.
The limit can be exceeded by working multiple temporary seasonal positions that result in a combined total greater than 1039 hours. The limit also can be exceeded by working a single temporary seasonal appointment that exceeds 1039 hours, unless granted an exception by OPM.
*This position may be filled under a temporary seasonal appointment not-to-exceed 1560 hours rather than 1039 hours depending on the park and program*
Employment may be terminated at any time due to fluctuations in funding levels, project needs, employee performance, or other considerations.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The work requires physical exertion such as regular SCUBA diving and snorkeling in cold water and rough ocean condition, in addition to recurring walking, hiking, or climbing over wet, rough, uneven, or rocky surfaces; bending; crouching, stooping, lifting or reaching to observe, collect, or record field data; or in some situations the work may require physical exertion to scuba dive or operate a boat. Heavy items (e.g., equipment, packs, and SCUBA equipment up to 100 pounds) must be lifted or carried on a routine basis.
WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work is performed in an office and outdoors. The work performed involves regular and recurring exposure to extreme oceanic and terrestrial weather conditions and terrain, poisonous plants, biting insects, spiny invertebrates such as sea urchins, and wild animals. Work is often performed off vessels that are not stationary due to ocean conditions.
All Department of Interior (DOI) employees, their spouses, and minor children may not acquire or retain any claim, permit, lease, small tract entry, or other rights granted by the Department in Federal lands, with limited exceptions. Additional ethics prohibitions can be found here, https://www.doi.gov/ethics/ethics-prohibitions.
Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Review our benefits
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.
How you will be evaluated
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
A review of your resume and supporting documentation will be made and compared against your responses to the Assessment Questionnaire to determine if you are qualified for this job. If your resume is incomplete or does not support the responses provided in the Assessment Questionnaire, or if you fail to submit all required documentation, you will be rated 'ineligible', 'not qualified', or your score will be adjusted accordingly. If a determination is made that you have inflated your qualifications or experience, you can lose consideration for this position.
Your resume must not exceed 2 pages. Only the document submitted as the "Resume" under the Documents section will be used to determine your qualifications/eligibility and for rating purposes. In the event you submit more than one resume, only the latest submission will be reviewed.
Candidates will be rated and ranked using Category Rating procedures. These procedures place candidates with veterans' preference above non-preference eligibles within each category. Veterans with a service connected disability of at least 10-percent are listed in the highest quality category, except when the position being filled is scientific or professional at the GS-09 grade level or higher. Under Category Rating, candidates will be rated and ranked into one of three categories:
- Best Qualified - applicants possessing experience that substantially exceeds the minimum qualifications of the position including all selective factors and are highly proficient in all requirements of the job and can perform effectively in the position.
- Well Qualified - applicants possessing experience that exceeds the minimum qualifications of the position including all selective factors and are proficient in most of the requirements of the job.
- Qualified - applicants possessing experience that meets the minimum qualifications of the position including all selective factors and are proficient in some, but not all of the requirements of the job.
- Database Management Systems
- Fishery Biology
- Interpersonal Skills
- Technical Competence
- Written Communication
Current or former displaced Federal employees who are surplus, displaced, or involuntarily separated have special priority selection rights under the Agency Career Transition Assistance Program (CTAP) or the Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP). To be considered under CTAP/ICTAP, you must be well-qualified. To meet the definition of well-qualified, you must (1) score at least 85 on the assessment questionnaire; (2) meet the minimum qualification requirements (education, experience or a combination therein), including any selective placement factors; and (3) be able to perform the duties of the position upon entry with reasonable accommodation, when applicable.
Overstating your qualifications and/or experience in your application materials or application questionnaire may result in your removal from consideration. Providing false or misleading information on your resume or supporting documentation may result in removal from consideration or other action consistent with applicable federal hiring regulations. Applicants who include vulgar, offensive, or inappropriate language or information in their application package will be ineligible for further consideration for this position.
Required Documents
ALL required documentation must be submitted to receive full consideration for eligibilities and veterans' preference selected.
The following documents are required and must be submitted by 11:59 PM (EST) on 11/16/2026:
- Resume which includes a list of all significant jobs held and duties performed, with dates in month-year format (include month/day/year format if needed for 52 weeks of experience), and indicate hours worked per week (or full-time). Your resume must clearly show how long you have held each grade/rank. Resumes must not exceed two single-sided pages and resumes longer than two pages will not be accepted. The minimum font size is 10-point for all body text. All resumes must maintain a minimum 0.5-inch margins on all sides to ensure readability and prevent excessive content compression. Including supplemental pages or attachments disguised as resume extensions are prohibited and will not be reviewed to determine your eligibility/qualifications. Your 2-page resume must contain information sufficient to make a valid determination that you fully meet the specialized experience requirements. If you have federal experience, you should include series, and grade for each position held, and if experience is part of a career ladder position, you must clearly distinguish the job duties and length of time working for each grade level. More information on how to write a Federal Resume: https://help.usajobs.gov/faq/application/documents/resume/what-to-include
- Complete All Required Assessments.
- Other Supporting Documents, if applicable, such as:
- Veterans' Preference Documentation:
- If you are a Discharged, Non-Disabled Veteran, you must submit a copy of your DD-214 showing character of discharge (Member 4 copy), or other Documentation of Service and Separation under Honorable Conditions, as listed on the SF-15. If you don't have your DD-214, you may request it after discharge from the National Archives.
- If you are a veteran within 120 days of discharge, you must submit signed documentation from the Armed Forces certifying: 1) your expected release/retirement from active duty, 2) under honorable conditions, 3) your pay grade/rank/rate at time of discharge, 4) dates of active duty service, 5) any campaign or expeditionary medals received, & 6) dated within 120 days of your separation.
- If you are a Disabled Veteran, Purple Heart Recipient, or Mother or Spouse of a Disabled or Deceased Veteran, you must submit all additional proof required by the SF15, and if applicable, a completed SF15. You may request a copy of your Department of Veterans Affairs letter from www.ebenefits.va.gov or call 1-800-827-1000 to establish proof of disability.
- Veterans' Preference Documentation:
- College transcripts if qualifying based on education.
- Documentation of SCUBA Certification.
- Documentation for Interagency/Career Transition Assistance Plan consideration if you are a displaced Federal employee within the local commuting area. You must include: 1) Proof you are a displaced Federal employee, e.g., RIF Separation Notice, Notice of Proposed Removal, etc; 2) SF-50s (Notifications of Personnel Action) showing career/conditional tenure competitive status, promotion potential and duty location; and 3) your most recent performance appraisal. To exercise selection priority, displaced or surplus Federal employees must be rated well-qualified or above 85 on the rating criteria for this position.
Do not submit photographs with your application package. Documents with photographs may not be seen by hiring officials - you must remove your image from any badges, licenses, etc.
Do not upload Adobe portfolio documents. Adobe portfolio documents are not viewable by our agency's staffing offices.
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
How to Apply
Please read the entire announcement and all the instructions before you begin an application. To apply for and be considered for this position, you must complete all required questionnaires, assessments and submit all required documentation as specified in the How to Apply and Required Documents section. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on the 11/16/2026- unless otherwise stated in this vacancy announcement to receive consideration.
**Resumes must not exceed two single-sided pages and resumes longer than two pages will not be accepted. You may only submit one resume. Only the document submitted as the "Resume" under the Documents section will be used to determine your qualifications/eligibility and for rating purposes. In the event you submit more than one resume, only the latest submission will be reviewed.**
The application process is as follows:
- Click the Apply Online button.
- Answer the questions presented in the application and attach all necessary supporting documentation. To PREVIEW the application questionnaire, select the following link:https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/13095792
- Click the Submit Application button prior to 11:59 PM (ET) on the announcement closing date.
To view the announcement status or your application status, visit: https://help.usajobs.gov/how-to/application/status.
Applicants who apply under this job opportunity announcement agree to have their application, associated documents and applicable personal information shared with other Bureaus/Offices within the Department of the Interior (DOI) who have vacancies within the same occupational series, grade, full performance level and in the same geographic location(s), including within the same metro/commuting area. Applying to this announcement does not replace the need to apply to other job opportunity announcements for which you wish to receive consideration.
WE DO NOT ACCEPT HARD-COPY OR E-MAIL APPLICATION PACKAGES.
Agency contact information
1901 Spinnaker Drive
Ventura, CA 93001
US
Next steps
Please refer to your USAJOBS account for application status; the Human Resources Office cannot respond to individual status inquiries.
Many similar positions are advertised by various offices within the DOI. You MUST apply to each announcement for consideration. Officials may hire at any grade level, location or work schedule. All positions may or may not be filled. Dates and length of employment will vary between DOI sites depending on funding, weather conditions, and visitation. Positions are TEMPORARY positions and have no promotion potential.
Once the Occupational Questionnaire is received, you will receive an email acknowledgement that your submission was successful. If you are among the most qualified candidates and your name is referred to the hiring official, you may be contacted directly for a possible interview. You will be notified of the status of your Application Package at the time candidates are referred for consideration, and when the selection process is complete.
Applicants will get a response from this announcement by approximately January 2027.
You can find your path with the Department of Interior at https://careers.doi.gov/.
Overview
- 0404 Biological Science Technician
- Credentialing
- Suitability/Fitness
See All 14 Fisheries Technician Jobs
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Find Fisheries Technician JobsFisheries Technician Job Market
Who's Hiring
What Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in fisheries technician jobs.
- Bachelor's degree in fisheries science, biology, or a closely related natural resources field
- Hands-on experience with electrofishing equipment and standard fish sampling protocols
- Familiarity with water quality measurement tools and data recording procedures
- Valid driver's license and ability to operate watercraft in varying field conditions
- Physical ability to work outdoors in remote terrain and variable weather conditions
- Proficiency entering and managing field data in spreadsheet or database applications
Tips for Your Fisheries Technician Job Search
Tailor your resume for field methods
List the specific sampling protocols you've used, such as electrofishing, gill netting, or snorkel surveys, and name the fish species you've worked with. Generic biology language won't stand out the way a protocol-specific resume will.
Get your SCUBA or boating certifications first
Many agencies require a current boater safety certificate or scientific diving certification before they'll consider your application. Completing these before you apply removes a common early knock-out factor from the screening process.
Apply early to roles that fit
Migrate Mate lists fisheries technician openings from across the United States in one place, so you can find roles that match and apply directly to each listing.
Target seasonal postings before spring opens
Federal and state agencies post seasonal fisheries technician positions months before field season begins. Checking for these openings in late winter gives you a real timing advantage over candidates who start looking after the snow melts.
Prepare for scenario-based interview questions
Interviewers commonly ask how you'd handle equipment failure mid-survey or unexpected weather on a remote site. Walk through your decision-making process out loud, referencing safety protocols and data integrity steps you'd actually follow.
Negotiate start date around licensing timelines
If you're waiting on a state scientific collection permit or a boat operator card, raise that early in the offer conversation. Most agencies can adjust a start date by two to four weeks without it affecting your standing as a candidate.
Fisheries Technician Jobs: Frequently Asked Questions
Which companies are hiring the most fisheries technicians?
The most active employers for fisheries technicians right now are Conservation Legacy, Student Conservation Association, and State of Michigan, and the most openings are in Alaska, California, and Washington, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Federal agencies and state fish and wildlife departments consistently represent a large share of total openings throughout the year.
How many fisheries technician jobs are remote?
About 0% of fisheries technician openings are fully remote or hybrid as of November 2026, reflecting the hands-on, field-based nature of most roles. The sub-areas most likely to offer remote or hybrid arrangements are data analysis, GIS mapping, and report writing positions attached to longer-term research programs.
How do you become a fisheries technician?
Start by earning a bachelor's degree in fisheries science, biology, wildlife management, or a closely related field. Gain field experience through internships, volunteer programs, or seasonal aide positions with a state or federal agency. Obtain any required certifications, such as boater safety or electrofishing operator credentials. Build your species identification and data collection skills before applying to permanent roles.
Can you get a fisheries technician job with little experience?
Yes, entry-level and seasonal positions are specifically designed for candidates with limited professional experience. Agencies and consulting firms regularly hire recent graduates or career changers who have completed relevant coursework, field labs, or volunteer stream surveys. Demonstrating comfort with outdoor fieldwork, basic water quality tools, and accurate data recording often matters more than years of paid experience at the entry level.
What does the fisheries technician interview process look like?
Most employers start with a phone or video screen focused on your field experience and availability. A structured in-person or panel interview typically follows, often including scenario questions about safety decisions, equipment troubleshooting, and data quality in the field. Some agencies add a practical skills component or ask you to describe a past sampling project in detail before extending an offer.
Where can I find and apply to fisheries technician jobs?
You can find and apply to fisheries technician jobs on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings from employers across the United States. Search the listings to find roles that match your experience and location, then apply directly to each one that fits your background and goals.
See All 14 Fisheries Technician Jobs
Find roles that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Fisheries Technician Jobs