Terrestrial Wildlife Research Biologist 2

Arizona Department of Administration•Phoenix, AZ

18h•Hybrid

About The Position

Join the only state agency in Arizona responsible for conserving and protecting more than 800 wildlife species. Be part of a passionate group of people who want to make a positive impact on outdoor recreation in Arizona by managing resources for safe, compatible opportunities for current and future generations. From fishing, boating and off-highway vehicle use to shooting sports, hunting and wildlife watching, Arizona Game and Fish supports it all. Our biologists use the best available science in their management actions, and our wildlife managers are on the ground in your communities making a difference every day. Opportunities abound beyond the field at AZGFD, so check us out and see what we’re all about! Consider joining our workforce today. AZGFD celebrates the diversity of Arizona's people, landscapes and of course, wildlife. However you choose to enjoy Arizona’s wildlife and wild places, the outdoors is open for all. The Arizona Game and Fish Department manages fish and wildlife in Arizona and under the authority of the Arizona Game and Fish Commission, creates and implements scientific methods and regulations to effectively manage fish and wildlife habitat via conservation, enforcement, hunting, fishing, watercraft and off-highway vehicle recreation, and shooting sports. The Arizona Game and Fish Department dedicates itself to excellence, values its employees and supports a culture of stewardship, teamwork and partnerships. WILDLIFE SPECIALIST 2 “Terrestrial Wildlife Research Biologist” WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT DIVISION / RESEARCH BRANCH / PHOENIX, AZ BASED FLSA- Exempt / SALARY GRADE 21 / HIRING SALARY RANGE $48,000-$55,000 CLOSING DATE: 09/07/2026 Joining this workforce means entering an environment that values its employees, fosters teamwork, and provides a stable, highly rewarding career path. Your Mission in the Wild Wildlife Impact : By designing research studies, collecting data, and publishing results, your work directly addresses the agency's critical wildlife management needs. Hands-On Conservation : Your fieldwork—which could include trapping, marking, and tracking wildlife—provides the raw insights needed to protect Arizona’s wildlife species. Shaping Scientific Knowledge : By analyzing data and drafting peer-reviewed manuscripts, you contribute to the global body of wildlife science, ensuring Arizona stays at the forefront of conservation. Fostering Future Conservationists : By supervising technicians, interns, and volunteers, you directly mentor and shape the next generation of wildlife professionals. Community Engagement : Making scientific and public presentations ensures the agency's research findings are transparently shared with the communities working with and relying on wildlife.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in wildlife science or a closely related field.
Three years of professional wildlife research or management experience (an advanced degree can replace one year).
Proficiency in study design, statistical and spatial data analysis, and field data collection.
Valid driver's license.
Passing a post-offer physical exam.
Knowledge of the southwest, wildlife ecology, scientific methods, wildlife research and management techniques, data collection methods, statistical analysis, scientific report and manuscript preparation, and proper operation and maintenance of field equipment and various vehicles, e.g. four-wheel drive, all-terrain vehicles.
Knowledgeable and experienced with working, navigating, and camping in remote and harsh environments.
Skilled in collecting and analyzing field data, preparing and writing reports and scientific manuscripts, and presenting research study results.
Ability to use office equipment and perform both manual labor and office-related duties.
Ability to communicate verbally and in writing.
Ability to work alone and as part of a team.
Ability to work in remote locations for extended periods where overnight camping will be required.
Ability to work nights and weekends depending on field work needs.
Ability to fly in an airplane or helicopter to conduct surveys, captures, or habitat assessments.
Bachelor’s degree in wildlife science or a closely related field from an accredited college or university.
Possession of and ability to retain a current, valid state-issued driver’s license appropriate to the assignment.
Successful completion of the Electronic Employment Eligibility Verification Program (E-Verify).

Nice To Haves

Graduate degree in wildlife sciences or a closely related field.
Experience with planning, designing, conducting, analyzing, and reporting on scientific research projects.

Responsibilities

Designing research studies, collecting data, and publishing results.
Conducting fieldwork, which could include trapping, marking, and tracking wildlife.
Analyzing data and drafting peer-reviewed manuscripts.
Supervising technicians, interns, and volunteers.
Making scientific and public presentations.
Conducting field surveys for various taxa including large mammals, small mammals, herpetofauna, and avian species.
Conducting vegetation surveys and camera trap surveys.
Trapping, marking, and tracking wildlife using aerial and/or ground telemetry techniques.
Designing wildlife research studies and writing draft study plans to address wildlife management information needs.
Collecting field data and analyzing data using statistical software.
Preparing draft reports and scientific manuscripts.
Making public presentations on wildlife research studies.
Working in remote locations and camping in primitive conditions for up to 8 continuous days.
Handling logistics for camps and fieldwork.
Managing and maintaining field equipment.
Operating four-wheel drive vehicles and ATVs in rough terrain.
Entering, managing, and analyzing data using laptop computers and statistical software.
Supervising subordinate personnel, including wildlife technicians, interns, and volunteers.
Performing other duties as assigned.

Benefits

13 days’ of vacation
12 sick days
10 paid holidays
Tuition Reimbursement Program
Participation in the nationally recognized Arizona State Retirement System
Superior health care options
Vision care, dental care, pharmacy benefits, and flexible spending account (options available)
Life, long-term disability, and short-term disability insurance options are available
Many more benefit programs are available
Paid Parental Leave program