Biologist

Overview

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service seeks a dedicated Biologist to join efforts in native fish species rehabilitation and conservation within the Lake Superior basin. This role involves diverse fieldwork including acoustic tagging, gamete collection, and electrofishing surveys, alongside data analysis and collaboration with partner agencies.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the planning and execution of native fish rehabilitation projects, including lake sturgeon acoustic tagging and brook trout population surveys in tributary ecosystems.
• Evaluate and interpret biological datasets from various monitoring activities and ensure proper data collection and management using relational databases.
• Cultivate and maintain partnerships with resource agencies that align with conservation goals for native species across the Great Lakes.
• Create detailed reports and presentations to communicate findings and project outcomes effectively to stakeholders and partner organizations.
• Work with team members to manage procurement of supplies and service needs essential for daily operations and equipment maintenance. Participate in educational outreach initiatives.

Qualifications and Employment Conditions

• U.S. citizenship or national status is mandatory.
• Applicants must satisfy merit promotion and time-in-grade federal employment requirements.
• Successful background check and possession of a valid state driver’s license are required, due to operational travel duties.
• Wearing the official USFWS uniform is compulsory.
• New hires will undergo a probationary or trial period (1 or 2 years) to assess suitability and performance.
• Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must be registered with the Selective Service System.

Educational and Experience Requirements

Applicants must meet both a foundational degree requirement and the minimum qualifications as outlined.

• Basic Requirement: A relevant degree in biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or a closely related field; alternatively, a combination of education and experience demonstrating equivalent knowledge and skills.
• Minimum Qualification (GS-09): At least one year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-07 level performing fish or aquatic biology work including project planning, data collection and analysis, and reporting; OR two years of progressive graduate study in relevant fields; OR a comparable combination of education and experience amounting to full qualification.

Credit is given for both paid and volunteer experience, including service through programs such as Peace Corps or AmeriCorps.

Additional Considerations

• Telework may be permitted with supervisory approval.
• Multiple positions might be filled in the immediate geographical area.
• Applicants eligible under the Career Transition Assistance Plan (CTAP) may be considered.
• Reasonable accommodations are provided for candidates with disabilities.

Probation Period Details

• Employment continuation is contingent upon satisfactory performance and alignment with agency goals during probation/trial periods, which last one or two years depending on conditions.
• Final appointment is subject to affirmative certification of continued public interest by the agency.

Commitment

Ideal candidates will be motivated to enhance Federal government efficiency, uphold Constitutional values, and contribute meaningfully to the mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Benefits

Full-time federal employees gain access to an extensive benefits package tailored to improve career satisfaction for employees and their families. Eligibility and details vary based on employment type and status.