NMFS-SEFSC Fish Biologist Surveyor

The NMFS-SEFSC Fish Biologist Surveyor positions at NOAA Cessrst involve conducting fisheries surveys and data collection for marine resources. Locations include Beaufort, NC; Miami, FL; and Pascagoula, MS. The role includes extensive fieldwork, data analysis, and collaboration on conservation projects. The job is full-time and offers telework eligibility, with opportunities for promotion. Candidates should apply through USAJobs during the specified application period.
Position: NMFS-SEFSC Fish Biologist Surveyor Vacancy Announcement
Location: Beaufort

Overview

Southeast Fisheries Science Center of the National Marine Fisheries Service in the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is excited to announce we are recruiting for two Fish Biologist positions to conduct fisheries surveys and data collection of living marine resources.
• Title: Fish Biologist
• Open and Close Dates: 3/26/26 – 4/1/26
• Locations: Beaufort, NC;
Miami, FL; and Pascagoula, MS
• Pay Scale & Grade: Fish Biologist, ZP-482-2/3
• Appointment Type: Permanent
• Work Schedule: Full Time
• Telework Eligible: Yes
• Promotion Potential: Yes, ZP-3 (equivalent to the GS-11/12)

Apply for these positions through USAJobs
• ZP-2 (DE)
• ZP-3 (DHA)

Duties

Marine Mammal and Turtle Division

Location(s): Pascagoula, MS;
Miami, FL; or Beaufort, NC

You will help oversee projects from design to data dissemination, supporting the conservation of protected species under the Marine Mammal Protection Act and Endangered Species Act, including Deepwater Horizon restoration monitoring.

Key Responsibilities:
• Coordinate and conduct visual, acoustic, and aerial surveys for marine mammals and sea turtles.
• Oversee biopsy, drone operations, acoustic deployments, and biological sampling.
• Manage field logistics, heavy equipment, and boat trailering.
• Collaborate across divisions to support fisheries and ecosystem research.
• Conduct in-depth data analysis and oversee data management efforts using the latest tools and approaches, including AI and Cloud-based solutions.

Population and Ecosystems Monitoring Division

Trawl and Plankton Branch

Location
:
Pascagoula, MS

The position will serve in a variety of roles (e.g., Field Party Chief, Watch Leader, or Watch Stander) during bottom trawl (and plankton) surveys conducted by the Trawl and Plankton Branch in the U.S. Gulf of America. This role involves extensive offshore fieldwork, biological sampling, and logistical coordination.

Key Responsibilities:
• Spend 90–120 days at sea annually on 12–20 day research cruises, often in harsh weather.
• Identify fishes and invertebrates and process fish samples for life history data (removal of otoliths, tissue samples and stomachs).
• Manage pre- and post-cruise activities, including gear maintenance, supply procurement, and cruise reporting.
• Maintain and update critical survey databases.

Requirements

While a cover letter is not required, it is highly recommended — it’s a great opportunity to explain why you are a great fit for the position. It’s also a great spot to clarify your duty location. Please make sure you are also really clear with your coursework and make sure it’s abundantly obvious that relevant courses count towards your educational requirements.

Copy/paste and link from the Course Catalog if you can find it! Ensure you attach transcripts that show you meet the educational requirement for the position.

To ensure your resume receives consideration, we highly recommend using the USAJobs resume builder to ensure all required elements are in your resume.

However, if you prefer to use your own format, please ensure all of the below information is included. If not, you may be disqualified:
• Job Title (including job series and grade, if federal)
• Descriptions of duties/work performed (include duties that detail you meet the specialized experience listed in the announcement)
• Starting and ending dates for each position (month AND year)
• Hours worked per week and/or full-time or part-time. If identifying as part-time you must state the number of hours per week.

Also, ensure you check and double check that your application package contains all of the “Required Documents” as outlined in the vacancy announcement.
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