Native Aquatics Biologist

State of Utah • Vernal, UT

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources is hiring a Native Aquatics Biologist II for its Native Aquatics Program in Vernal, Utah. The position plans and implements projects under Utah’s Wildlife Action Plan, including conservation work for Species of Greatest Conservation Need managed under multi-agency agreements. Species mentioned include Bluehead Sucker, Flannelmouth Sucker, Roundtail Chub, Boreal Toad, and some mollusk species. The work includes on-the-ground restoration and collecting information on imperiled aquatic species to inform conservation decisions and help preclude federal listing under the Endangered Species Act.

The role combines field and office work. Fieldwork focuses primarily on native fishes, and also includes amphibians, reptiles, and mollusks. It may involve electrofishing, netting, passive detection, overnight camping, and supervising field crews. The position also manages and analyzes collected data, oversees habitat restoration projects, coordinates with other agencies, provides management recommendations, prepares technical reports and presentations, and identifies new conservation work. The position is full-time, in-office/on-site, scheduled for 40 hours per week, with overtime as needed. Weekend and overtime work may be necessary depending on seasonal project needs.

Requirements

• Bachelor of Science degree in biological sciences, fisheries, or a related field, or directly related experience equivalent.
• Two years of professional full-time experience; more than 24 months total if temporary seasonal experience is included.
• Ability to lead a crew and conduct fieldwork unsupervised.
• Applicable knowledge of fish survey techniques, including electrofishing and netting.
• Skills in data collection and organization, statistical analysis and interpretation, technical report writing, proposal preparation, and project development.
• Valid driver's license.
• Ability to hike in moderate to rough terrain and work in inclement weather and wilderness settings.

Nice To Haves

• Master of Science degree in biological sciences, fisheries, or a related field.
• Experience with or working knowledge of Colorado River basin fish species.
• Experience with or working knowledge of Western Toad conservation.
• Experience with specialized fish survey techniques such as acoustic or radio telemetry, weir traps, larval sampling, or PIT tags.
• Ability to navigate rafts in Class III or higher whitewater.
• Experience operating motorboats on rivers.

Responsibilities

• Plan, prepare for, and organize sampling and conservation efforts for native fishes, amphibians, reptiles, and mollusks.
• Conduct field sampling, including electrofishing from rafts, boats, barges, and backpacks; trammel, fyke, and gill netting; and passive detection using PIT antennas.
• 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 concept through funding, permitting, and implementation.
• Coordinate with other agencies to determine research activities and 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 partner agencies.
• Draft technical reports for research activities and give presentations at statewide conservation team meetings and professional conferences.
• Perform statistical analyses and provide biologically meaningful interpretations of data through graphical representations.
• Identify and implement new scopes of work that further species conservation and prevent listings.

Benefits

• Full benefits package eligibility.
• Job stability through employment within a well-established organization.
• Career growth and opportunities to develop skills and gain leadership experience.
• Meaningful work benefiting the community and supporting organizational goals.
• Supportive work environment emphasizing cooperation, strong work ethics, and mutual support.

What This Job Offers

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