Fishery Biologist 2 (PCN 111447)

The State of Alaska is hiring a Fishery Biologist 2 for a full-time seasonal role at the Kodiak Island Limnology Laboratory. Responsibilities include managing field sampling, laboratory processing, and data collection to support salmon production efforts. The position requires travel in remote areas, handling hazardous materials, and a flexible schedule. Candidates need a relevant bachelor's degree and experience in biology or fisheries science.
About the position

The Alaska Department of Fish and Game, Division of Commercial Fisheries is seeking a Fishery Biologist 2 to manage the Kodiak Island Limnology Laboratory. This position is a permanent full-time seasonal role that involves overseeing the planning and implementation of field sampling and laboratory sample processing for the Westward Region (Region IV) and beyond. The primary goal is to produce high-quality limnological data that will assist research and management staff in maximizing salmon production. The Fishery Biologist 2 will play a crucial role in gathering and providing robust information used in assessing water quality, forage availability, freshwater productivity, and rearing habitat quality that drives juvenile salmonid productivity. The data collected will inform stocking recommendations, escapement goal reviews, and approaches to fishery management, contributing to the overarching goal of sustainable fisheries for Alaska. The position requires preparation for the field season starting in February, which includes preparing sampling equipment and drafting a sampling schedule. The field season runs from May through September and involves limnological sampling and lab components from May through December. The role also includes ensuring data entry and validation and conducting site visits with lab contractors. The position demands frequent travel in a float plane, often working in inclement weather and cold-water conditions, and requires a flexible schedule, including some night work to achieve sampling objectives. Additionally, the role involves handling hazardous materials and the proper use of personal protective equipment.

Responsibilities
• Manage day-to-day operations of the Kodiak Island Limnology Laboratory.
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• Oversee planning and implementation of field sampling and laboratory sample processing.
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• Gather and provide information on water quality, forage availability, and freshwater productivity.
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• Inform stocking recommendations and escapement goal reviews.
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• Conduct limnological sampling and lab analyses from May through December.
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• Ensure data entry and validation for collected samples.
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• Conduct site visits with lab contractors.
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• Prepare sampling equipment and gear for the field season.

Requirements
• A bachelor's degree from an accredited college in biology, limnology, biometrics, oceanography, forestry, fisheries science, or natural resource management.
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• One year of professional experience as a biologist or fish culturist, or equivalent experience.
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• Knowledge of limnological sampling methods and platforms.
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• Knowledge of chemistry methods for determining freshwater nutrient concentrations.
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• Experience in entering and editing data in databases and spreadsheets.
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• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.

Nice-to-haves
• Training in specialized areas such as hydroacoustics, microscopic analysis, underwater research, or fish habitat restoration or enhancement.

Benefits
• Opportunity to gain expertise in limnological sampling methods and analyses.
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• Engagement with multiple stakeholders in beautiful remote locations of Alaska.
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• Experience with operation of an autonomous underwater vehicle.