Sportfish Research Biologist 2

Arizona Department of Administration•Phoenix, AZ

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Sportfish Research Biologist 2 serves as an aquatic research biologist in the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s Research Branch, which conducts research and provides scientific information to support sound management and stewardship of Arizona’s fish and wildlife resources. Under the direction of the Aquatic Research Program Manager, the biologist implements statewide research projects focused on sport fish management and supervises at least one research technician and seasonal interns. The position may offer remote work within Arizona, depending on department business needs and continued achievement of performance measures. The role includes conducting complex data analyses, preparing study plans and reports, sharing research through publications and presentations, supporting partners and the public, and maintaining research equipment. Work can involve harsh, remote field conditions, extended periods in temperatures above 100°F, overnight travel, camping, and traversing uneven terrain while carrying equipment.

Requirements

A bachelor’s or advanced degree in wildlife or fisheries, or a closely related field, from an accredited college or university.
Three years of professional experience in fisheries and/or wildlife research or management.
Knowledge of fish and wildlife management; fish biology and life history, particularly sport fishes; basic fish capture and monitoring techniques; physical sciences; advanced mathematics and statistics; data management; experimental design; the scientific method; specialty fisheries equipment; and vehicle and boat operation.
Skill in computerized and manual data and information management, advanced data-analysis tools or programs, preparing manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals, collecting, handling, tagging, and measuring aquatic wildlife, applying fish biology, behavior, and care techniques, training and overseeing others, time management, leadership, public relations, and problem-solving.
Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing; build positive relationships with the public and staff; develop, review, and follow standardized operating protocols; learn quickly; make critical decisions; and work independently and as part of a team.
Ability to work in harsh, remote environments, including temperatures above 100°F, for 8–16 hours; camp in the field for several days; regularly traverse 2–5 miles and occasionally more than 5 miles over uneven terrain; lift 50 or more pounds to chest height and/or carry heavy equipment for extended periods; and travel overnight.
Possess and maintain a current, valid state-issued driver’s license appropriate to the assignment.
Complete a post-offer medical/physical examination; employment is contingent on the agency’s ability to reasonably accommodate any restrictions.

Nice To Haves

Graduate degree in fisheries and/or wildlife sciences, or a closely related field, from an accredited college or university.

Responsibilities

Supervise research technicians and interns; provide training and professional development and fulfill supervisory administrative responsibilities.
Analyze complex research data using analysis software and statistical programs to develop scientifically sound conclusions.
Review and prepare materials for publication in technical journals and magazines and for presentation to scientific conferences, department personnel, partner agencies, the public, and media.
Prepare strategic plans, study plans, and reports, and review popular and technical publications to maintain proficiency in specialty fields.
Provide effective work-unit leadership and customer service to individuals and public and private groups inside and outside the agency.
Provide guidance and expertise to internal and external partners through training and responses to requests for assistance or support.
Maintain research equipment; plan and assess work-unit staffing and equipment needs; and assist with budget and purchasing requests.
Participate in public outreach and education.
Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

13 days of vacation
12 sick days
10 paid holidays
Tuition reimbursement program
Participation in the Arizona State Retirement System, with enrollment eligibility effective after 27 weeks of employment
Health care options
Vision care
Dental care
Pharmacy benefits
Flexible spending account options
Life insurance options
Long-term disability insurance options
Short-term disability insurance options
Paid parental leave program
Other benefit programs