Biological Science Assistant (Smolt Monitoring Assistant)

State of Oregon • La Grande, OR

12d

About The Position

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 full-time, Limited Duration position based out of the Inland Fish Science Program in La Grande, Oregon with frequent (2-4 nights per week) travel to Little Goose and Lower Monumental dams on the Snake River near Dayton, Washington. The anticipated duration of this assignment is from April 15, 2026 through August 15, 2026. (These are estimated dates. Length of season(s) may be shortened or extended depending on project needs, funding, or factors beyond the project’s control). 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. Opportunities for camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing abound. 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. Oregon is known for their vineyards, breweries, and adventures for the whole family to enjoy. Music, museums, and community events help Oregonians celebrate its diversity as well as its connectedness. Oregon truly offers a rich cultural experience that is unique to the Pacific Northwest!

Requirements

• Minimum qualifications are not established for this position; however, we are seeking applicants with the following experience or skills.

Nice To Haves

• Experience collecting and recording data
• Experience operating and maintaining fish sorting and trapping equipment
• Experience identifying and enumerating fish
• Maintain and repair fish sampling gear and equipment
• Experience working as a team member
• Anyone who has or is in pursuit of a Fisheries or Wildlife Science degree or related degree in biological/ecological sciences

Responsibilities

• Conduct daily fish sampling which includes identifying salmonid fishes and recording sample fish data (length, weight, and sex).
• Participate in smolt monitoring and gas bubble trauma sampling at the Juvenile Fish Bypass Facilities at Little Goose and Lower Monumental dams on the Snake River near Dayton, Washington.
• Sampling at the dams occurs seven days per week and you will regularly assist biologists at the dams, requiring frequent overnight travel to the dams (2-4 nights per week).
• Assist in sampling fish at sites in the Grande Ronde and Imnaha River basins near La Grande, OR.
• Work requires driving long distances on highways and gravel roads, possibly in adverse weather conditions.
• Lifting fish and equipment up to 50 pounds is required.

Benefits

• Work/life balance
• 11 paid holidays a year
• Competitive benefits package
• Advancement and learning opportunities that will help grow your career with the State of Oregon.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed