Fish and Wildlife Biologist

United States Fish & Wildlife Service • Bozeman, MT

393d • $72,553 - $94,317 • Onsite

About The Position

The Fish Health Biologist position at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service involves conducting health assessments and diagnostics on aquatic species to ensure their well-being and manage fish health programs. The role requires expertise in parasitology, bacteriology, virology, and molecular biology, with responsibilities including analyzing tissue samples, performing health inspections, and collaborating with various federal and state agencies.

Requirements

• Degree in biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or related disciplines.
• One year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-09 in the Federal service, including work in bacteriology, virology, and parasitology.
• Experience in processing and interpreting molecular tests such as PCR and qPCR.
• Knowledge of laboratory and field procedures for diagnosing fish diseases.
• Experience performing aquatic animal health inspections.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS).
• Prior fish health training or certifications.

Responsibilities

• Conduct parasitological, bacterial, virological, and molecular assays on aquatic species tissue samples.
• Analyze and interpret assay results for various regional fish and aquatic programs.
• Conduct comprehensive health inspections and certifications of federal hatchery facilities.
• Perform necropsy, tissue sample collection, and laboratory pathogen screening.
• Maintain chain of custody records and accurate laboratory case histories for each submission.
• Independently conduct specialized analysis of aquatic species samples to detect parasites and pathogens.
• Examine moribund fish, tissues, and blood samples for diagnostic purposes.
• Communicate with federal, state, tribal, and NGO partners to coordinate wild fish health survey collections.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package as a federal employee.
• Access to health insurance, retirement plans, and paid leave.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Administration of Environmental Quality Programs
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree