3-Year Temporary Fish & Wildlife Biologist I

State of Nebraska • Lincoln, NE

8d • Onsite

About The Position

This is a three-year temporary position with a flexible start date, approximately January 11, 2027, through December 31, 2029. The term depends on annual project funding, and the position may be terminated if funding is not received. The role works on the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s federally funded Missouri River Sub-Basin Invasive Carp Project, focused on controlling, containing, and removing invasive carp species.

Under the primary direction of the Missouri River Program Manager, and with support from the Aquatic Invasive Species Program Manager, Rivers and Streams Program Manager, and District Managers, the position leads Nebraska’s statewide invasive carp project. Working under limited supervision, it focuses on invasive carp control, containment, and removal in the Missouri River and interior rivers and streams, especially preventing expansion into waters not currently invaded.

The position includes field sampling, biological and habitat data collection, fish and macroinvertebrate handling and measurement, telemetry assistance, equipment and vehicle maintenance, laboratory work, and data entry. It also involves data analysis, reporting to the contracting agency, and presenting findings at scientific and public meetings. Travel and sampling may cause daily work hours to fluctuate; overnight travel of one to three nights per week and occasional weekend and holiday work are required.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, ecology, fish or wildlife management, or a closely related biological science field; experience may substitute for education on a year-for-year basis.
• A general qualification guideline is a bachelor’s degree in fisheries management, limnology, biology, or a related field plus two years of fisheries management experience.
• Knowledge of fisheries management practices, fish-handling protocols, fish and macroinvertebrate identification, technician supervision, and the operation, care, and repair of fisheries equipment and vehicles.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite and relevant statistical or graphics software.
• Ability to communicate effectively; set goals and objectives; maintain records; assemble, analyze, and interpret data; prepare written reports; and present information at scientific meetings.
• Ability to operate and maneuver powered boats and perform physical labor outdoors in adverse weather conditions.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule to complete sampling and survey efforts as needed.
• Valid driver’s license required.

Responsibilities

• Lead Nebraska’s statewide invasive carp project, focused on control, containment, and removal in the Missouri River and interior rivers and streams.
• Help prevent invasive carp from expanding into waters that are not currently invaded.
• Deploy and retrieve sampling gear.
• Collect and record biological and habitat data.
• Weigh and measure fish and macroinvertebrates.
• Assist with telemetry projects.
• Maintain and repair fisheries sampling equipment, boats, and trucks.
• Complete laboratory work and enter data.
• Analyze data and prepare monthly and annual reports for the contracting agency.
• Present project findings at scientific and public meetings.
• Attend project-related meetings and training sessions.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Eligible temporary assignments may include health, dental, and long- and short-term disability benefits; eligibility varies by position, agency, and employment status.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level