Fisheries Biologist

The State of Oklahoma is hiring a Fisheries Biologist in Norman, OK, responsible for managing aquatic resources, developing management plans, conducting surveys, and supervising staff. The role includes data collection, project planning, and public engagement. The biologist will work closely with various agencies and assist in grant proposals and budget management. This position requires familiarity with fish and wildlife management principles and involves extensive public interaction.
Under general supervision of the Regional/Program Supervisor, participate in the development of both short- and long-range fish and wildlife management and research projects. Is responsible for planning, organizing, and directing the successful completion of assigned projects within predetermined guidelines. Must be familiar with the principles and procedures of fish and wildlife management and research. Use scientific methods to gather data regarding fish/wildlife populations and/or habitat. Collect fish/wildlife samples, specimens, and data. Record and analyze scientific data and prepare and submit detailed reports. Supervise both full time and temporary employees. Serve as advisor or Department representative in areas of special expertise. May have extensive contact with a variety of public and private individuals and groups. Biologists perform a variety of duties depending on the specific program or area they are assigned to and may be responsible for the supervision of a technician and seasonal interns. Below is a short summary of the emphasis for each position.

POSITION: Regional Management Biologist

LOCATION: OK Fisheries Research Lab, 500 E Constellation, Norman, OK

Regional Management Biologist – Proactively manages aquatic resources within one of 7 fisheries management regions by developing and providing annual updates to 5-year regional management plans, monitoring regional lakes and reservoirs, and conducting fisheries surveys. Provides annual fish stocking requests and assists hatchery personnel with fish stockings. Additional duties include coordinating the development of regional boating and fishing access projects, and the maintenance of equipment, buildings, roadways, campsites, restrooms, signs, fences, and other infrastructure. Promotes public use and awareness of regional resources via news releases, interviews, presentations, and social media.

Job Duties May Include

Participate in the planning, development, coordination and implementation of fish and wildlife research and management projects. Assist in establishing project goals and participate in the development of the Division objectives. Submit grant proposals and partnerships to corporate foundations, public and tribal entities.

Interpret policies to subordinates and interested public. Develop or implement existing procedures for accomplishing assigned projects.

Coordinate work with Hatcheries, other Biologists, other Divisions and state, federal and municipal agencies.

Assist with the development of management or research plans which include definition of proposed projects, specifications, time schedules, expenses, equipment, supplies and personnel needed to complete the projects; i.e., creel and economic analysis surveys.

Prepare and submit annual project budgets and reports including salaries, equipment, supplies, maintenance, etc. for assigned projects. Submit claims for expenditures, and maintain expenditure ledger(s), equipment inventory and equipment maintenance logs.

Schedule work to be completed by contractors, cooperators or subordinates during appropriate time of year to meet project objectives.

Assist in conducting public hearings on seasons, regulations and other Department actions.

Present programs to local civic, educational, youth, professional, sportsmen and environmental groups.

Conduct fish population surveys to determine distribution of species, age and growth, condition, food habits, population enumeration and management recommendations.

Apply limnologic techniques to determine characteristics such as areas, depth, and temperature and water chemistry to various waters.

Apply standard creel census techniques to determine fishing pressure, harvest and characteristics of a fishery.

Apply fish culture techniques in transporting fish, collecting eggs, transporting fry, and introduction of fish into varied habitats.

Furnish technical advice and assistance to private pond owners and municipalities.

Investigate pollution caused fish kills to identify cause and determine loss. Findings subject to use as court evidence.

Review professional and non-professional fishery and wildlife literature to keep up to date with current fish and wildlife management fields.

May be required to perform other duties, management or non-management, as assigned by Supervisor.

Must Have The Ability To
• Operate boats, motor vehicles, lawn mowers, tractors, and ATVs with various attachments.
• Operate and use firearms, cutting torch, and welding equipment.
• Lift and carry a minimum of 50 pounds for a distance of 100 yards.
• Ability to push / pull a minimum of 50 pounds to hook up trailers, load boats, and various other equipment.
• Walk and jog over rough terrain for extended periods of time.
• Must be able to swim.
• Work alone in remote areas.
• Endure various extremes of outdoor weather conditions.
• Work extended hours, weekends, and stay overnight out of town.
• Handle wild animals in live and dead condition, including field dressing wild game.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships, work independently, and be professional and courteous with the public and other agencies.
• Communicate clearly and effectively in public speaking situations and be able to express oneself clearly and concisely in writing.
• Operate and use small and handheld equipment and supplies.
• Use personal computer and various office equipment.
• Operate and use field traps, survey gear, and lab equipment.
• Conduct day / night audio and visual surveys.

Requirements

EDUCATION:

Requires a bachelor’s degree or higher in Aquatic Resource Management or closely related field from an accredited college or university.

You must attach a copy of your transcript to be considered for this position. Applications without an attached transcript will not be considered.

EXPERIENCE: No previous experience is required. Experience with GIS applications is preferred.

Knowledge And Skills

Must have knowledge of principles, practices and techniques of fish and wildlife management. Understand basic farming operations and equipment use and basic supervision principles. Must have skills in exercising good judgment in analyzing situations and making decisions. Collect, evaluate and present information clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.