Regional Aquatic Program Manager

State of Utah•Cedar City, UT

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

Lead the team that protects, conserves, and enhances Southern Utah's aquatic ecosystems and fisheries. The Regional Aquatic Program Manager oversees regional fisheries management and native species conservation, and coordinates work on habitat restoration and aquatic invasive species prevention. The role balances ecological preservation with high-quality angling opportunities across the region. The position directs regional aquatic biologists and collaborates with regional leadership, statewide aquatics and hatchery teams, federal agencies, water districts, angling groups, and private landowners. It combines office and field work, including regional travel and extended field assignments. The position is based at 1470 N Airport Rd, Cedar City, Utah, and is hybrid. The stated schedule is Monday through Friday, eight hours per day and 40 hours per week. Fieldwork may involve long days, early mornings, and multi-day overnight camping. Work takes place in remote lakes, streams, and backcountry sites in severe weather. Physical activities include hiking rugged terrain while carrying up to 50 pounds, operating watercraft, and performing heavy field labor. Routine equipment use includes 4WD vehicles, trailers, and boats. The role requires a driver's license and pesticide applicator license. Background check and drug test are not required. The position is full-time, eligible for a full benefits package, and pays $27.34–$43.36 per hour. The application deadline is October 25, 2026; the posting may close earlier if a sufficient applicant pool is received after the minimum advertising period.

Requirements

A degree in Fisheries Biology, Aquatic Ecology, Wildlife Management, or a related natural resources field, or equivalent experience.
Driver's license.
Pesticide applicator license.
Ability to perform fieldwork in remote outdoor locations and severe weather, including hiking rugged terrain carrying up to 50 pounds, operating watercraft, and performing heavy labor.
Ability to travel regionally and work long days, early mornings, and multi-day overnight field assignments.

Nice To Haves

Proven supervisory and program management experience.
Master's degree in Fisheries Science or a related field.
Certified Fisheries Professional (AFS) certification.
Knowledge of Utah native species, including Cutthroat trout lineages, and quagga/zebra mussel containment strategies.
Experience with stream and lake restoration techniques and basic familiarity with Western water law and instream flows.
Proficiency in ArcGIS and fisheries analysis tools such as R, FAST, and MARK.
Experience with Federal Aid (DJ) or WRI grant administration.
Experience presenting to public groups or boards, such as RACs and public committees.
Experience leading multi-agency projects involving USFS, BLM, USFWS, or water districts.

Responsibilities

Direct regional sportfish and native aquatic species programs.
Supervise, train, and mentor staff, including regional aquatic biologists.
Manage regional budgets and state and federal grants.
Oversee population monitoring, scientific research, and data analysis to inform management and fishing regulations.
Develop, implement, and adhere to management plans.
Represent the DWR at Regional Advisory Council meetings and engage with key stakeholders.
Coordinate regional work on habitat restoration and aquatic invasive species prevention.
Collaborate with regional and statewide leaders, federal agencies, water districts, angling groups, and private landowners.