Biologist

The United States Fish & Wildlife Service is hiring a Biologist for a temporary GS-0401-12 position in Helena, MT. Responsibilities include conducting consultations under the Endangered Species Act, preparing biological opinions, and collaborating with interagency groups to mitigate impacts on listed species. Candidates must have relevant education and experience. The role offers a federal benefits package and may extend up to five years or become permanent.
About the position

The Biologist position at the Department of the Interior is a GS-0401-12 role based in Helena, MT, specifically within the R6-Montana Ecological Services Field Office. This position is classified as a temporary promotion, not to exceed one year, with the potential for extension without further competition, up to a maximum of five years. Additionally, there is a possibility for this temporary promotion to be made permanent without further competition. The selected candidate will be responsible for conducting consultations under the Endangered Species Act, which includes the preparation of biological opinions. The role requires participation in interagency and interdisciplinary groups to assess and mitigate the impacts of agency projects on listed and sensitive species. The Biologist will serve as an expert in the biology of these species, particularly focusing on listed fishes and riverine ecosystems. Coordination and negotiation with other agencies to promote conservation efforts will also be a key aspect of this role, along with keeping colleagues and management informed about project progress and concerns.

Responsibilities
• Conduct consultations under the Endangered Species Act, including preparation of biological opinions.
,
• Participate in interagency and interdisciplinary groups to understand and minimize the effects of agency projects on listed and sensitive species.
,
• Function as an expert in the biology of listed species and their habitats, especially listed fishes and riverine ecosystems.
,
• Coordinate and negotiate with other agencies to promote the conservation of listed and sensitive species.
,
• Keep colleagues and management informed about the progress of and concerns regarding assigned projects.

Requirements
• Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
,
• Possess a Bachelor's or higher degree in biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or related disciplines appropriate to the position.
,
• OR possess a combination of education and experience that includes courses equivalent to a major in the biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or related disciplines, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
,
• For GS-12 level: 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-11 grade level in the Federal service, which includes designing, implementing, and analyzing studies for fish and/or wildlife; analyzing project effects on species and ecosystems under the Endangered Species Act; participating in interagency groups to solve environmental problems; and maintaining relationships and negotiating with agency staff.

Nice-to-haves
• Experience with the Endangered Species Act and related environmental laws.
,
• Strong communication skills, both written and oral, to prepare reports and build consensus among diverse groups.
,
• Ability to manage competing priorities and organize data records.

Benefits
• Access to a comprehensive benefits package as a federal employee, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.