Native Aquatics Biologist

State of Utah Office of the Governor • Vernal, UT

3d • $25 - $29 • Onsite

About The Position

The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources is looking for someone with a passion for rare native fishes and amphibians! This position is responsible for planning and implementation of projects conducted under Utah's Wildlife Action Plan, which includes several Species of Greatest Conservation Need managed under multi-agency conservation agreements (e.g., Bluehead Sucker, Flannelmouth Sucker, Roundtail Chub, Boreal Toad, and some Mollusk spp.) The successful candidate will have the unique opportunity to implement on-the-ground restoration work and collect information on imperiled aquatic species that can directly affect decisions to preclude federal listing under the Endangered Species Act.

Requirements

• BS in biological sciences, fisheries, or a related degree or directly related experience equivalent.
• 2 years of professional full-time experience; >24 months total if including temporary seasonal experience.
• Ability to lead a crew and carry out field work unsupervised.
• Applicable knowledge of fish survey techniques (i.e. electrofishing and netting).
• Data collection and organization, perform statistical analysis and interpret data, writing technical reports, proposal preparation and project development skills.
• Valid Driver's License.

Nice To Haves

• MS in biological sciences, fisheries, or a related degree.
• Experience with or a working knowledge of Colorado River basin fish species.
• Experience with or a working knowledge of Western Toad conservation.
• Specialized survey techniques for sampling fish (i.e. acoustic or radio telemetry, weir traps, larval sampling, PIT tags, etc.
• Navigating rafts in class III or above whitewater.
• Operating motorboats on rivers.

Responsibilities

• Plan, prepare for, and organize sampling and conservation efforts for native fishes (largest portion of workload), amphibians/reptiles, and mollusks.
• Field sampling often includes electrofishing (raft, boat, barge, and backpack), netting (trammel, fyke, and gill nets), and passive detection (PIT antennas). Field sampling may include overnight camping.
• Supervise field crews of up to eight personnel while conducting surveys.
• Manage, organize, analyze, and interpret data collected through field activities.
• Oversee habitat restoration projects from the concept stage through funding, permitting, and implementation.
• Coordinate with other agencies to determine research activities, management priorities, conduct surveys, and accomplish conservation goals.
• Provide management recommendations to the Native Aquatics Project Leader, Utah Division of Wildlife Resources Salt Lake City staff, and associated partner agencies.
• Draft technical reports for research activities and provide presentations for statewide conservation team meetings and professional conferences.
• Perform statistical analysis on datasets with the ability to provide biologically meaningful interpretations of data through graphical representations.
• Identify and implement new scopes of work that further species conservation and prevent listings.

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: Mid Level