Native Aquatics Biologist I

State of Utah • Moab, UT

2d • Hybrid

About The Position

The UDWR Moab Field Station is looking for a native aquatics biologist I (Wildlife Biologist I) to join our team. The incumbent will serve as Principal Investigator on various fisheries projects on the Colorado, Green, and San Juan Rivers with the goal of monitoring, researching, managing, and recovering the endangered and threatened fishes of the Upper Colorado River Basin. The candidate must have a strong desire to spend long field seasons (March-October) on multi-day river trips in remote canyons of the Desert Southwest.

Requirements

• Applicants who are currently enrolled in a Bachelor's program will be considered.
• Experience designing, planning, implementing, and synthesizing scientific research and field studies.
• Proficiency with data collection, management, and QA/QC.
• Data analysis experience including a strong working knowledge of statistical software for biological data analysis (Program R, Excel) and experience modeling and estimating population parameters.
• Proficiency with technical scientific writing and oral presentations of findings.
• Must possess or be able to obtain a valid driver's license.
• Experience leading fisheries field work including: Operating oar-powered inflatable rafts and motorized boats
• Raft and boat-mounted electrofishing, netting and trapping fish, fish identification, handling, measuring, and PIT tagging
• General gear maintenance and troubleshooting experience
• Trailer towing
• Respect and clear communication (oral and written)
• Ability to work in a leadership role and support role
• Ability to work well with others as part of a team to foster a respectful and inclusive work culture

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in fisheries, aquatic ecology, or related field
• Experience modeling populations using Program MARK
• Experience managing large data sets with complex statistical analysis
• Navigation of Class IV whitewater
• Jet and propeller motorboat operation on large rivers
• Outboard motor (props and jets) motor repair and maintenance
• Swiftwater rescue training, wilderness medical training
• Maintenance and repair of rafting, camping, and sampling gear
• Experience working with endangered species
• Experience with ETS electrofishers mounted to rafts and jon-boats, hoop nets, trammel nets, larval light traps, and seines

Responsibilities

• Serves as Principal Investigator for several fisheries research, monitoring, and management projects; design, plan, and implement scientific studies.
• Lead multi-day field efforts in remote river locations with crews up to 9 people.
• Collect, record, and manage accurate scientific data in accordance with complex sampling protocols.
• Capture fish using various methods including raft and boat-mounted electrofishers, seines, trammel nets, light traps, and hoop nets.
• Identify, measure, and PIT tag endangered, native, and nonnative fishes of the Upper Colorado River Basin.
• Analyze data to answer research questions, model population trends, and support management decisions.
• Report and present findings in formal and informal settings, in written and verbal forms.
• Treat coworkers and the public with dignity, equality, empathy, and respect.

Benefits

• This position is eligible for a full benefits package.
• Job Stability: Enjoy the security and reliability of employment within a well-established organization.
• Career Growth: Develop valuable skills and gain opportunities for leadership within a large organization.
• Meaningful Work: Contribute to an important service that benefits the community and supports organizational goals.
• Supportive Work Environment: Be part of a team that values cooperation, strong work ethics, and mutual support.

What This Job Offers

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