Fisheries Technicians

The Idaho Department of Fish and Game is hiring three full-time Fisheries Technicians in Coeur d'Alene, ID, for seasonal positions supporting research on Lake Pend Oreille. Responsibilities include biological sample processing, data entry, and fieldwork. Positions range from 4 to 8 months, with flexible start dates between August 18 and 29, 2025. A high school diploma is required, and no prior experience is necessary.
Position Overview

Application Deadline: 07/18/2025
Hours per Week: At least 40
Salary: $17.32 per hour
Education Required: High School Diploma
Experience Required: None

Description

The Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG) is hiring three full-time Fisheries Technicians to support research on Lake Pend Oreille. Based in Coeur d’Alene, these seasonal positions will assist with various fisheries research and monitoring projects. Temporary housing is available in Farragut State Park.

Positions include one 8-month benefitted, one 8-month non-benefitted, and one 4-month non-benefitted role. Work involves collaborating with IDFG staff and commercial gillnet crews, with responsibilities ranging from fieldwork to lab-based sample processing and data entry. The schedule may include long or irregular hours, weekend shifts, and overnight field stays.

Responsibilities
• Process and collect biological samples from gillnetted fish
• Euthanize target species and release bycatch
• Sample and tag Bull Trout, Rainbow Trout, and Westslope Cutthroat Trout
• Track acoustic tags and conduct spawning ground surveys
• Assist with kokanee and Bull Trout spawning ground surveys
• Enter, organize, and QA/QC biological data
• Prepare aging structures and coordinate angler science outreach
• Assist with additional research tasks as needed

Minimum Requirements
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Comfortable working in inclement weather and rugged terrain
• High attention to detail and ability to follow protocols
• Professional conduct with the public
• Valid driver’s license

Preferred Qualifications
• Bachelor’s degree in Fisheries or related field, or equivalent experience
• Data management experience in Microsoft Suite or R
• Knowledge of fish anatomy, age and growth analyses
• Laboratory experience with biological samples
• Experience reading otoliths or fin rays for age estimation
• Skilled in operating boats and towing trailers

Additional Notes
• Positions run from August 2025 through either December 2025 or April/May 2026
• Start dates are flexible between August 18 and August 29, 2025
• Equal Opportunity and Veteran’s Preference employer
• May close early if qualified applicants are identified

How to Apply
• Register with the Idaho Department of Labor at: https://labor.idaho.gov (Reference Job Number 2389477)
• Complete the Temporary Employment Application: https://idfg.idaho.gov/jobs/application-temporary
• Email (preferred), mail, or drop off the following to the contact below:
• IDFG Temporary Application
• Cover letter
• Resume
• Three professional references

Contact:
Jeff Strait
Idaho Department of Fish & Game
2885 W Kathleen Ave, Coeur d’Alene, ID 83815
Email: jeff.strait@idfg.idaho.gov (preferred)
Phone: 208-770-3779