Fisheries Ecologist - Field Data Collection

Think Tank, Inc. is hiring a Fisheries Ecologist for a full-time onsite position in Silver Spring, MD, or associated field stations in WA or OR. The role involves ecological research and data analysis of marine and anadromous fish species, supporting fisheries management and conservation efforts. Candidates must have relevant education and experience, strong quantitative skills, and effective communication abilities. Travel is anticipated, and US citizenship is required.
*US Citizenship Required

*Full time Onsite Position at the NWFSC, Seattle, WA or at one of its associated field stations in WA or OR

*Travel is anticipated

*Anticipated Start: 4th quarter FY 2026

*Position is Subject to Contract Award

POSITION DESCRIPTION

The Fisheries Ecologist supports the Northwest Fisheries Science Center (NWFSC) Fish Ecology Division in conducting ecological research and quantitative analyses of marine and anadromous fish species throughout the Pacific Northwest and California. Working collaboratively with interdisciplinary teams of scientists, natural resource managers, and tribal representatives, the Fisheries Ecologist contributes to research that informs fisheries management, conservation, habitat restoration, and sustainable harvest opportunities under the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (MSA), Endangered Species Act (ESA), and other applicable authorities.

The position combines field research, laboratory work, ecological data analysis, scientific communication, and development of decision-support tools to improve fisheries management and ecosystem understanding. The Fisheries Ecologist plays a key role in collecting and analyzing biological and environmental data, developing reproducible scientific workflows, and disseminating research findings to management agencies and scientific communities.

REQUIREMENTS

Education – Bachelor's degree, or higher, from an accredited college or university with a major in a field of study related to the requirements of the task order with emphasis in fisheries, ecology, natural sciences, mathematics, statistics, oceanography, or hydrology.Experience – Three (3) years of experience related to the task order, including familiarity with the species and habitats managed by NOAA Fisheries in the West Coast region. An Advanced Degree (MS or PhD) in a related field may be substituted for two (2) years of experience.Excellent verbal and written communication, and experience writing reports and publishing peer-reviewed articles. Familiarity with common software used in the workplace such as Google Suite and Microsoft Office.Strong quantitative skills including familiarity with modeling and data analysis. Familiarity with software such as R, GitHub. etc.Ability to manage workload, stay organized, and produce high-quality work products efficiently.Ability to work both independently and on interdisciplinary teams.The proposed personnel must possess and maintain the following skills/certifications and/or credentials during the period of performance: valid driver's license.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Advanced degree (MS or PhD) for Tasks 1-3 highly preferred.Peer-reviewed publication record in fisheries ecology, quantitative ecology, or related field.Collaboration with tribal representatives and regional resource management partners.Presenting results at regional and national scientific meetings and conferences.Familiarity with Pacific salmon, groundfish, or other NOAA WC managed species.Experience with Bayesian or hierarchical modeling approaches.ABOUT THINK TANK INC.

Think Tank Inc. (TTI) is a CMMI Level 3 (DEV/SVC) appraised, ISO 9001, 27001, 20000-1, 31000, and 42001 certified provider of scientific, technical, and professional support services to federal agencies, including NOAA Fisheries under the ProTech 2.0 Fisheries IDIQ. Learn more at www.ttinc.com.

Think Tank Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.