Fisheries Project Assistant (Biological Science Assistant)

State of Oregon

2d

About The Position

Note: Effective Feb. 1, 2026, the compensation plan for this position will be increased to reflect a Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) of 2.5%. The salary listed in this posting does not reflect the COLA. Hiring a seasonal position with anticipated duration of April 1, 2026 – June 30, 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). MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN OREGON’S NATURAL RESOURCES! Opportunity Awaits, Apply Today! We especially encourage students, early career professionals, and anyone interested in a career in fish, wildlife, and natural resources, to apply! Come learn and train with ODFW and help us fulfill our mission: To protect and enhance Oregon's fish and wildlife and their habitats for use and enjoyment by present and future generations. As a Fisheries Project Assistant (Biological Science Assistant) with the Ocean Salmon/Columbia River Program (OSCRP) in Clackamas, Oregon, you will help conduct studies important to management of fisheries resources in the Columbia River basin and Oregon in general.

Requirements

• This position requires a Boater Education Certificate obtained through the Oregon State Marine Board within the first thirty days of appointment.
• Your application must include both a resume and a cover letter.
• The cover letter should be no longer than two pages and must: Express your interest in the position Address your qualifications in relation to the Desired Attributes listed above Failure to include a cover letter or to address the requested information may result in your application being removed from further consideration.

Nice To Haves

• Experience conducting fish surveys, identifying adult fish species (especially salmonids)
• Experience collecting biological samples from fish and accurately recording field data
• Experience operating a powerboat
• Experience trailering vessels or other equipment
• Experience with lab protocol and microscopes
• Experience recording and analyzing biological data
• Anyone who possess or is in pursuit of a Fisheries or Wildlife Science degree or related degree in biological/ecological sciences.

Responsibilities

• Collect and record information on fish and fish habitat in the field: Deploy various fishing gear, such as boat electrofishing equipment, gill nets, set lines, seines, fish traps, and artificial substrates.
• Identify fish species, measure, tag, and sample fish.
• Collect biological samples such as scales, fin spines, gut contents, gonads, and eggs.
• Preserve samples for lab analysis.
• Record biological data and habitat data on data sheets and handheld computers.
• Drive agency vehicles to tow 26 ft boats to and from field sampling and for maintenance.
• Tow, launch, and operate boats up to 26 ft in length.
• Laboratory, data and supply maintenance: Enter accurate and precise data into spreadsheets and databases with line-by-line verification Assist with laboratory analysis and biological sample preparation/processing Maintain and perform minor repairs on equipment such as vehicles and boats, mending nets, checking oil level of vehicles, changing sparkplugs and oil on inboard and outboard boat motors.
• Clean boats, trucks, and sampling equipment

Benefits

• 11 paid holidays a year and a competitive benefits package
• Advancement and learning opportunities that will help grow your career with the State of Oregon

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: No Education Listed
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees