Aquatic Biologist (Wildlife Biologist II)

The State of Utah is hiring an Aquatic Biologist (Wildlife Biologist II) for the Southeastern Regional Office in Salt Lake City, UT. The role involves managing Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) to protect fisheries, conducting inspections, leading fish population monitoring, and developing outreach strategies. Candidates should have a relevant bachelor's degree and experience in biology or ecology. The position offers a full benefits package and requires fieldwork in diverse environments.
Job Title: Aquatic Biologist (Wildlife Biologist II) - Southeastern Regional Office (SERO)

Job Description:
This biologist is responsible for ensuring that Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) of various types (mollusks, noxious weeds, illegally moved fish, etc.) do not negatively impact our fisheries management and conservation efforts. Responsibilities include conducting AIS inspections of hatcheries, fish trap/spawning sites, and wild fish transfer sources within the assigned region to prevent AIS spread through fish stocking activities. The role will also lead fish population monitoring, invasive vegetation removal, and management strategies for illegal fish introductions at specific regional waters. Additionally, this position will develop and implement regional AIS outreach and survey strategies in collaboration with Salt Lake Office (SLO) and regional aquatics sections.

Southeastern Utah is one of the most diverse and unique environments in the United States, this position involves working within many unique settings helping our team better understand the threats and impacts of Aquatic Invasive Species to our fisheries. This position is eligible for a full benefits package including medical, dental, life insurance, long-term disability insurance, a retirement plan, plus paid leave to include annual, sick and holiday pay.

For more information about working for the Department of Natural Resources please click here.
• Conduct comprehensive monitoring and sampling for AIS, including plankton tows, artificial substrate sampler deployment, and
• shoreline surveys at priority locations.
• Lead fish population monitoring efforts at multiple waterbodies.
• Support the development of management strategies to address illegal fish introductions.
• Design and execute research projects to enhance the understanding of AIS and their effects on Utah's fisheries.
• Develop and implement projects for invasive vegetation removal in regional waterbodies.

Required/Minimum Qualifications:
• Bachelor's degree, preferably in a biology or ecological field, particularly fisheries or wildlife science and management, or
aquatic ecology, or directly related work experience equivalent.
• Ability to supervise a team of technicians.
• Ability to manage a budget and associated contracts.
• Ability to design and implement research-level projects.
• Familiar with and have a basic understanding of how to use taxonomic keys for species identification.
• Ability to independently and through a team process lead the region’s Aquatics Invasive Species Program.
• The ability to operate a boat safely, and pull a trailer with a truck.
Preferred/Ideal Candidate:
• A basic understanding of laboratory equipment such as microscopes.
• The ability to independently and collaboratively lead the region’s Aquatics Invasive Species Program.
• Capable of learning and understanding AIS issues, including ecology, biology and management of AIS species.
• Knowledge or experience with water sampling techniques.
• Ability to supervise a team of professional ecologists and others to conduct AIS sampling and monitoring.
• Ability to design and implement research-level projects
• Preference will be given to candidates with a bachelor’s degree in a natural resources field. Additional preference will be given to candidates with a master's degree in a wildlife-related natural resources field or other applicable field that is beneficial for the position. Preference for years of demonstrated successful full-time work experience will also be given.

Working Conditions:
• Ability to lift 50 pounds, strenuous physical activity while working in adverse weather and environmental conditions.
• Significant travel throughout the administrative region required, potential for out-of-state travel. Weekend and holiday work may be required.
• Ambient temperatures can exceed 110 degrees during summer months.
• Safely operate a boat in rough conditions.
• Camp and work in adverse conditions from bad weather to extreme heat.
Required Certifications/Licensed required at the time of hire or must obtain during probationary period or designated timeframe:
• Driver's license
• Pesticide applicators license
• Fishing License