Aquatic Biologist 1 (Limited- Term)

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania • Luzerne County, PA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

As an Aquatic Biologist 1 for the Department of Environmental Protection, you will be part of a team dedicated to understanding and improving water quality. This position blends outdoor fieldwork, laboratory tasks, and scientific analysis to support statewide environmental goals. You will gain valuable experience studying lakes and streams and helping identify environmental concerns. It is a rewarding opportunity for someone who wants to make a difference in water protection. This position focuses on studying the health of aquatic environments by collecting field data, analyzing biological samples, and preparing technical findings. The work helps protect water quality by identifying impacts from pollution, supporting environmental decisions, and providing accurate scientific information.

Requirements

• A bachelor's degree with a major in a biological science, natural science, environmental science, or natural resource management, including or supplemented by six college credits in freshwater aquatic biology, aquatic ecology, aquatic botany, water pollution biology, entomology, limnology, or closely related aquatic science coursework; or An equivalent combination of experience and training that includes six college credits in freshwater aquatic biology, aquatic ecology, aquatic botany, water pollution biology, entomology, limnology, or closely related aquatic science coursework.
• Applicants will be considered to have met the educational requirements once they are within 3 months of graduating with a qualifying degree/credits.
• Possession of an active motor vehicle license.
• Meet the PA residency requirement.

Responsibilities

• Conduct field surveys to assess how waste discharges affect aquatic life in lakes and streams
• Collect samples and document conditions to evaluate stream uses, fish health, and pollution impacts
• Examine biological samples under microscopes and classify organisms based on pollution tolerance
• Compile investigation results and prepare technical reports and recommendations
• Work with partner agencies to conduct joint lake and stream studies
• Evaluate permit applications for aquatic treatments and provide recommendations

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level