FUL - Biological Science Technician (Wildlife)

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service • Errol, NH

7d • Onsite

About The Position

This career-seasonal position is with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Region 5, at Umbagog National Wildlife Refuge in Errol, New Hampshire. Career-seasonal appointments are permanent positions with benefits, but do not provide year-round work. The employee works approximately 8–9 months each year and is in non-pay status for the remainder. The estimated start date is March 2027. Duties are developmental when the position is filled below the GS-07 full performance level.

The position assists biologists with wildlife surveys, habitat management, and maintenance of avian nesting structures. Work includes observing and surveying birds, documenting population and habitat information, collecting and managing biological samples, entering and analyzing data, and supporting conservation and refuge operations. Field work is performed independently by motorboat on rivers and open lake conditions. The employee may also provide basic conservation information, direct volunteers, and assist with general outdoor, maintenance, and office tasks.

Requirements

• Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
• Must pass a background investigation and favorable adjudication.
• Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered for Selective Service.
• Must participate in Direct Deposit and successfully pass E-Verify employment verification.
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license throughout employment.
• Must wear a uniform and comply with uniform standards.
• Must be able to work outside normal duty hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Must possess or obtain and maintain USFWS-approved Motorboat Operator Certification (MOCC) certification(s) within six months of employment, or by June if hired before the field season.
• May be required to serve a one-year probationary period; continued employment is subject to written agency certification.
• Must meet all qualifications by November 16, 2026, and meet applicable Time-in-Grade requirements.
• For experience to be credited, the resume must specify full-time or part-time work and hours worked per week.
• Qualify through one of the stated pathways: one year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-4 or higher involving avian or wildlife surveys, scientific data recording and reports, collecting and recording avian information, and identifying and observing avian population dynamics and conducting nest searches; a qualifying four-year bachelor's course of study or at least 24 semester hours in specified scientific fields, including at least 6 semester hours directly related to the occupation; or a qualifying combination of experience and education.
• Applicants using education to qualify must submit transcripts; foreign education must be evaluated as equivalent to U.S. education.
• Must reside within 75 miles of Errol, New Hampshire, at the time of application and provide proof of residency.

Responsibilities

• Assist biologists with wildlife surveys, habitat management, and maintenance of avian nesting structures.
• Survey and observe avian populations and document abundance, behavior, habitat, sex and age structure, territory occupancy, reproductive success, survivorship, band re-sights, and seasonal movements.
• Identify birds by sight and sound.
• Conduct field work independently by motorboat on rivers and open lake conditions.
• Use databases and reporting systems to store, compile, and analyze study data.
• Collect biological samples and ensure their documentation, reporting, storage, transport, and delivery.
• Enter and organize data in automated databases and conduct preliminary analyses using standard statistical methods to prepare reports.
• Summarize data using database software or other presentation approaches, maintaining detailed and accurate records and data transfers.
• Enter and retrieve data using geographic information systems (GIS) and other information management systems.
• Monitor and assist with control of invasive plants.
• Provide basic information about conservation resources and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to groups and individuals.
• May provide work direction for volunteers.
• Assist the team with general tasks around the duty station and office.
• Load and unload materials and equipment; clean grounds; collect and dispose of refuse; and perform light maintenance and housekeeping using hand and power tools and equipment.
• Assist with outdoor projects such as trail maintenance.

Benefits

• Career-seasonal appointments include the same benefits as permanent appointments.
• Uniform allowance.
• Federal employee benefits package; specific benefits depend on position type and eligibility.

What This Job Offers

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