Resource Biologist

This position is responsible for assisting in developing and implementing various fish/wildlife and stream restoration programs, along with other matters related to the District’s overall compliance requirements (associated with its FERC license) and actively participating in field activities that support the District's natural resource management plans, resident fish programs, habitat development/preservation, etc.  

Essential Functions:

·         Operate Box Canyon Dam upstream fishway weekends and most holidays when in use (April through July and September through December).

·         Perform nighttime boat electroshocking fish collections, mobile radio telemetry surveys, download, sort, and summarize fish movement data from radio and pit tag telemetry receivers daily 

·         Perform radio and PIT tag implant surgeries, and gas bubble trauma surveys and necropsies. 

·         Provide technical assistance and expertise to the Natural Resources Department, in order to meet natural resource protection and enhancement requirements included in the Districts’ FERC licensing order for the Box Canyon project

·         Responsible for hands-on design, implementation, oversight, and reporting on a variety of wildlife and fisheries, water quality, erosion prevention and riparian habitat projects. This may include but is not limited to such things as designing and implementing stream and/or riparian restoration projects, monitoring fish and bird, and aquatic plant populations, implementation of fishway prescriptions and water quality monitoring, stream habitat assessment and monitoring of fish habitat improvements

·         Related to the above, actively engage in the design and implementation of various field studies to ensure accurate and meaningful information is collected, analyzed, and applied. Will perform both routine and complex data collection and monitoring activities on a variety of wildlife and fisheries programs

·         Assist in the completion of regulatory permitting processes (BA’s, BE’s, JARPA’s, SEPA’s, 401 Certification, HPA’s, etc.), preparing analyses, reports and interacting with federal/state agencies and tribal biologists

·         On occasion, may be required to represent the District in agency consultation meetings, hearings, conferences and related events

·         Develop new and update existing GIS maps for annual reports, project proposals, and management plan revisions.

·         Perform statistical analysis of a variety of fish population and behavior data

·         Will be expected to maintain professional competence through continuing education opportunities and professional development/involvement

Requirements

Successful completion of a full 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor's or higher degree that included a major field of study in biological science that included at least 6 semester hours in aquatic subjects such as limnology, ichthyology, fishery biology, aquatic botany, aquatic fauna, fish culture, or related courses in the field of fishery biology; and at least 12 semester hours in the animal sciences in such subjects as general zoology, vertebrate zoology, comparative anatomy, physiology, entomology, parasitology, ecology, cellular biology, genetics, or research in these fields. A Master’s of Science degree in fisheries or related field along with some experience in natural resources field related activities is preferred.

The successful applicant must be self-motivated, able to work independently at times, and have good attention to detail. This position requires a strong working knowledge of data analysis and technical writing. In addition, the applicant must have the ability to work with minimal supervision, keep accurate records, adapt to varying work schedules, perform moderate to strenuous physical labor, and work outside in a variety of weather conditions. Bachelor’s Degree in Fisheries and Wildlife, Hydrology or related Environmental Sciences

Three (3) years experience “hands-on” experience utilizing scientific research methods.

Experience in understanding, interpreting, and complying with federal, state, and local laws, rules, and regulations pertinent to wildlife and related environmental sciences including ESA, SEPS, NEPA.

Practical, working knowledge of statistical research methods, spread sheet and database manipulation and a basic understanding of wildlife/fisheries issues as they relate to hydroelectric facilities. Must have a basic knowledge of fish, wildlife, and botanical monitoring/sampling techniques, as well as a familiarity with habitat evaluation and restoration methods.

Ability to plan, organize, implement, and oversee projects (both short and long term) and work successfully in a dynamic, fluid environment. Must also be self starting and self directed, and able to meet internal/external deadlines by providing high quality deliverable (e.g. written reports, presentations, data files etc.). Must be able to communicate effectively in a clear, concise, and scientifically accurate manner, both internally and externally.

Ability to complete the necessary permitting requirements for projects they oversee, as well as perform contract development and administration. Should be familiar with applicable environmental regulations and natural resource laws. 

Required to perform a majority of the work in the field, which will vary by season and established priorities.  Field-related activities may include extended hours under variable time/weather/terrain conditions. Must be able to safely transport and operate 4x4 trucks, power boats and related equipment.  Travel will be within the county for most field-work; however regional travel for meetings with regulatory agencies may also be required.

Benefits

The District offers a competitive benefits package that includes Medical, Dental, Vision, FSA for medical and dependent care, HRA VEBA, a variety of life insurance and ADD options, Deferred Compensation (401a & 457b), PERS, Short- & Long-Term Disability, and a generous personal leave bank. This is Non-Union full time position with a salary range of $71,910 to $124,845 DOE.