Fisheries Biologist III

Government of the Virgin Islands

4d•Onsite

About The Position

This is advanced biological and scientific work at the fully experienced level involving responsibility for initiating, planning and coordinating programs and plans necessary for the study of distributions, habitats, life history and the classification of marine, recreational or commercial specific within the Virgin Islands. An employee in this class works under the supervision of the Chief, Bureau of Fisheries Program, but is given full responsibility for seeing that the programs, management plans and other operations are developed and carried out properly. Work is reviewed through conferences and reports to ensure that acceptable standards are met.

Requirements

Ph.D. in Fisheries Science, Fisheries Management, Zoology or other related field, which includes a relevant thesis topic, and if course work is required, includes such courses as fisheries science or management, general zoology, ecology, etc.; plus two (2) years relevant experience.
OR Masters Degree in Fisheries Science, Fisheries Management, Zoology, and/or other related field which includes a relevant thesis topic, and if course work is required, includes such courses as fisheries science or management, general zoology, ecology, etc.; plus four (4) years experience in a related field.
OR Two (2) years at the Fisheries Biologist II level.
Scuba diving certification is required of all applicants/employees assigned to this position.
Knowledge of the principles of fisheries management, conservation and preservation.
Knowledge of conventional research guides, precedents, methods and techniques pertaining to fishery biology.
Knowledge of the habitats of fishing.
Knowledge of departmental rules, regulations, and administrative procedures governing the management of fishing.
Ability to draft lucid and concise reports of research work performed and conclusions reached.
Ability to established and maintains an effective and harmonious working relationship with employees, agency officials and the general public during the course of work.
Ability to swim in the sea and display snorkel proficiency.

Responsibilities

Develops detailed plans to systematically study and obtain new or additional information regarding certain aspects of the life history or ecology of a commercial important species in a particular fishery refuge.
Organizes and oversees the work of lower level personnel engaged in research studies and projects.
Studies of distribution, habitats, life history and classification of fisheries.
Collects, compiles and analyzes data collected on research and survey projects for possible utilization in the improvement of fisheries program.
Trains and instructs scientific and technical personnel in proper techniques, biological and physical control of fisheries management.
Prepares reports and or manuscripts suitable for publication in professional journals, as well as scientific articles for division use and publication.
Assists in the compilation and preparation of data specifications for federal grant-in-aid programs to be used in conserving and developing fish resources.
Presents talks and lectures to various groups and the general public to disseminate information regarding divisional activities, policies, and program objectives as it relates to fisheries programs.
Maintains gear and laboratory equipment.
Performs other related duties as may be required.