Fishery Biologist 1- American River Escapement Survey Crew Leader

• Lead and participate in survey crews that conduct fishery presence/absence research, recreational/commercial fishing surveys, anadromous fish escapement surveys (carcass, redd, trap/weir, snorkel, etc.), or tag detection and mark recovery surveys. Make standardized observations such as species identification, length, weight, behavior, growth, survival, reproductive condition, and/or signs of parasites, diseases or pathogens, fin clips or tags.
• Assist researchers in investigations of long term and short term fisheries resource management problems. Collect biological samples, record data, perform routine analyses of data, and contribute draft sections to scientific papers for publication.
• Lead and perform data entry for data from recovered tags, representative biological samples, and telemetry devices. Error check the data and update database.

Knowledge Required by the Position:

• Knowledge of fishery biology (including ability to identify adult steelhead trout and Chinook salmon).
• Knowledge of fish husbandry.
• Knowledge of aquatic habitats.
• Knowledge of the scientific method.
• Knowledge of personal computer applications such as word processing, spreadsheets, e-mail, publishing software, presentation software, database software, topographic software, and statistical analysis packages.
• Knowledge of technical writing protocols.
• Knowledge of database management. 

Additional Mandatory Skills:

• Completion of a bachelor's degree majoring in a biological science
• Previous field work experience
• Experience leading or supervising work groups
• Ability to operate and trailer a jet boat and kayak
• Ability to walk 3-5 miles per day in inclement weather on uneven, slippery surfaces and in-river over large cobble
• Ability to swim
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds repeatedly throughout the day, every work day
• Possession of a valid driver’s license
• Ability to identify adult steelhead trout and Chinook salmon
• Must be willing to handle rotten fish carcasses all day
• Ability to record neat and accurate field data
• Ability to operate a computer and various PC-based software programs
• Must be able to read, write and speak English at a level required for successful job performance
• Follow oral and written directions
• Ability to work as part of a team, especially under stressful conditions

Demands can range from sedentary, to moderate --where there is walking, climbing stairs and ladders, reaching, lifting, and bending, to rigorous.  In the latter case, the employee must be able to handle buckets of water or gear weighing up to 50 pounds.  Long daily periods of hiking, carrying equipment, swimming, and/or standing may be required.  Camping out for extended periods may be required. Some work requires the ability to maintain footing in fast-moving water. Work requires ability to walk 3-5 miles per day in inclement weather on uneven, slippery surfaces and in-river over large cobble.

 

Work Environment:

Some work is performed in an office setting with adequate lighting, heating and ventilation.  Some work may be performed in fish processing labs, fish holding areas, and/or in the field.  Employees may work on narrow, elevated walkways and platforms that are over or adjacent to water.  Field work involves exposure to all types of weather, slippery rocks or docks, trails, irregular terrain, insects, poison oak, rough or fast-moving water, or cold water temperatures. Work at high elevations or aboard boats may be required.

Qualifications

A range of education and experience may be presented. Candidates must present successful completion of a full 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor's or higher degree that included a major in biological science with at least 6 semester hours in aquatic subjects and at least 12 semester hours in the animal sciences.  An equivalent combination of experience and education is also qualifying.

 

 

Location

CDFW Rancho Cordova

Project Length

6 months or less

Travel Requirements

None

Benefits

Employees accrue sick time at a rate of 0.047/hour with a maximum of 96 hours per year. Employees also receive 12 paid holidays each year, paid time for jury duty and bereavement leave.

Driving

State Vehicle - Valid driver's license required. Offers of employment contingent upon passing driving records check.

Salary Target

$21.71-34.96/ hour