Native Aquatics Biologist I/II (2 positions)



Native Aquatics Biologist I/II (2 positions)

Salary

$20.23 - $32.21 Hourly

Location

Grand County, UT

Job Type

Full Time

Job Number

36120

Agency

560 Department of Natural Resources

Unit

5720 DNR SERO NATIVE AQUATICS MGMT

Opening Date

02/16/2023

Closing Date

3/5/2023 11:59 PM Mountain

FLSA

Exempt

Recruiter

Karen Weir / kweir@utah.gov / 801-538-7425

# of Openings

2

Schedule Code

TL - Time Limited - This is a career service exempt at will position.

Benefits

This position is eligible for a full benefits package. See benefits tab below for details.

Driver License Requirements

Employees hired for this recruitment will be subject to the Driver Eligibility standards found at the following link: https://adminrules.utah.gov/public/search/driver%20eligibility/Current%20Rules

EEO Statement

The State of Utah is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, or Veteran status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. For accommodations, dial 711 or TTY: 800-346-4128.

Job Description

Wildlife Resources

Job Title: Native Aquatics Biologist - Wildlife Biologist I/II  (2 positions)

*These positions may be filled as a Wildlife Biologist I or Wildlife Biologist II depending on qualifications. 

*Wildlife Biologist I - starting salary range will be between $20.23 to $23.51 per hour depending upon experience and qualifications. Incumbents in this class may participate in the collection of biological data, analysis and preparation of technical reports. Or Incumbents in this position may participate in fish culture activities in state owned fish hatcheries. Incumbents may supervise full time and part time wildlife specialist or technicians. This is an entry level position.
*Wildlife Biologist II  - starting salary range will be between $22.30 to $25.95 per hour depending upon experience and qualifications. 
Incumbents in this job do one of four things: 1. collect data for biological research and investigations in fisheries, game, non-game or other wildlife areas including range and habitat management. 2. Plan, budget, manage and execute the development and management of habitats including wetland preserve, game, non-game, or fish habitats. 3. Manage wildlife populations and be involved in recovery efforts of endangered or sensitive species. 4. Act as assistant to the hatchery supervisor in all aspect of fish culture at state owned hatcheries. Incumbent may supervise full time employees. Incumbents may design and/or use questionnaires, surveys or other instruments used in the collection and analysis of data. This is a working level position.


Job Description:
The UDWR Moab Field Station is looking for two (2) Native Aquatics Biologists (Wildlife Biologist I or II, depending on experience) to join our team. Incumbent will lead (as Principal Investigator and/or Trip Leader) and assist various fisheries projects on the Colorado, Green, and San Juan Rivers with the goal of monitoring, researching, managing, and recovering the endangered and threatened fishes of the Upper Colorado River Basin. Candidates must have a strong desire to spend a long field season (March-October) on multi-day river trips in some of the most beautiful and remote canyons of the Desert Southwest.  

Preference will be given to candidates with a bachelor’s degree in a natural resources field.  Additional preference will be given to candidates with a master's degree in a wildlife-related natural resources field or other applicable field that is beneficial for the position. Preference for years of demonstrated successful full-time work experience will vary based upon the specific position.


Principle Duties:
As a native aquatics biologist, you will:

  • serve as Principal Investigator for several  fisheries research, monitoring, and management projects; design, plan, and implement scientific studies.
  • lead and assist with multi-day field efforts in remote river locations with crews up to 9 people.
  • collect, record, and manage accurate scientific data in accordance with complex sampling protocols.
  • capture fish using various methods including raft and boat-mounted electrofishers, seines, trammel nets, light traps, and hoop nets.
  • identify, measure, and PIT tag endangered, native, and nonnative fish of the Upper Colorado River Basin.
  • analyze data to answer research questions, model population trends, and support management decisions.
  • report and present and present findings in formal and informal settings, in written and verbal forms.
  • treat coworkers and the public with dignity, equity, empathy, and respect using respectful and direct communication. .

The Ideal Candidate:
The ideal candidate will have:
Required:
  • exceptional verbal and written communication skills.
  • skills, experience, and personality traits that contribute  to and augment a kind, inclusive, and respectful work environment.
  • experience electrofishing, netting, trapping, identifying desert southwest native fishes, handling, measuring, and PIT tagging fish.
  • experience navigating rafts and motorized boats
  • experience collecting and recording scientific data
  • experience supervising teams in remote, inclement, and highly variable settings
  • experience designing and implementing scientific studies (Bio II)
  • experience analyzing, writing, reporting and presenting scientific data (Bio II)
Preferred:
  • experience navigating rafts and motorized boats on large river systems and in Class IV whitewater
  • experience designing and implementing scientific studies (Bio I, required for Bio II)
  • experience analyzing, writing, reporting and presenting scientific data (Bio I, required for Bio II)

Why you should join our team:
The Native Aquatics Program at the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources Moab Field Station provides an excellent opportunity to participate in native species conservation, research, and management in remote canyon reaches of the Green, Colorado, and San Juan Rivers. The work has a wide variety of project objectives, project locations, species, sampling methods, and data analysis techniques. Come join a skilled, respectful, inclusive, enthusiastic, committed team of biologists and technicians. This position is based out of Moab where you can enjoy a vibrant community, natural beauty, and endless backcountry after work, on your days off, and during a flexible off-season. This job provides opportunity for career advancement through job experience, training, salary improvement plans, and/or education assistance programs. Additionally, the State of Utah offers a generous benefits and leave package. Click the benefits tab to learn more.  

Typical Qualifications

Requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree in fisheries, natural sciences, conservation, or related field. Or directly related work experience equivalent.
  • experience leading fisheries fieldwork, including:
    • raft and motorized boat operation
    • raft and boat-mounted electrofishing
    • netting and trapping fish
    • fish identification, handling, measuring, and PIT tagging
    • gear maintenance and repair
    • trailer towing
  • data collection, analysis and reporting experience
  • respectful and clear communication (oral and written)
  • ability to work in a leadership role and support role
  • ability to work well with others as part of a team
  • In addition to the above qualification, Bio II candidates will have:
    • experience designing, planning, implementing and synthesizing scientific research and field studies
    • proficiency with data collection, management and QA/QC
    • data analysis experience including a strong working knowledge of statistical software for biological data analysis (Program R, Excel)
    • experience modeling and estimating population parameters
    • proficiency with technical scientific writing and oral presentation of findings
Preference:
  • Master's degree in fisheries, aquatic ecology, or related field
  • experience modeling populations using Program MARK
  • navigation of Class IV whitewater, jet and propeller motor boat operation on large rivers; outboard motor (props and jets) motor repair and maintenance
  • swiftwater rescue training; wilderness medical training
  • maintenance and repair of rafting, camping and sampling gear
  • experiencing working with endangered species
  • experience working with native fish in the Upper Colorado River Basin
  • experience with ETS electrofishers mounted to rafts and jon-boats, hoop nets, trammel nets, larval light traps, and seines
  • digital data recording with hand-held data loggers (i.e. Juniper systems, DataPlus)
  • experience supervising large teams (5 or more people) on multi-day trips (3-10 days) in remote locations
  • DEI, emotional intelligence, and workplace respect experience and trainings.

Supplemental Information

Working Conditions:

  • Risks which require the use of special safety precautions and/or equipment, e.g., working around operation machines, working with contagious diseases or hazardous chemicals, etc.
  • Work requires physical exertion. May require the ability to stand, walk over rough surfaces, bend, crouch, stoop, stretch, reach, and lift moderately heavy items (up to 50 pounds) in a recurring manner and/or for long periods of time.
  • Must be able to row heavy rafts in Class III - IV whitewater and/or operate motorized jon boats in shallow, riverine conditions. 
  • Must be able to lift 50+ lbs, work on unstable surfaces, work long hours in rugged and remote areas in inclement (very hot, very cold, wet, windy, dark) weather. 
  • Must be able to work in these conditions while maintaining a respectful, inclusive, and team-oriented attitude that contributes positively to group morale. 
  • Must be willing and eager to spend a long field season on up to 10 days trips in remote locations. 
  • Must have a strong desire to be part of a team.
Certifications/Licenses required at time of hire or must obtain during probationary period or designated timeframe:
  • Wilderness Medical Training (WAFA,WFR, or WEMT)- (to be completed within 1 year of hire)
  • Swiftwater Rescue Training- (to be completed within 1 year of hire)
Other requirements:
  • Must posses or be able to obtain a valid driver's license.
Miscellaneous:
  • Overnight field work in remote river locations for extended periods (up to 10 days at a time, 80 days a year). 
  • Schedule is highly variable during field season (March-October). 
  • Affordable housing in Moab is difficult to find and while we hope to be able to assist with this financial burden in the future, there is currently no housing or housing stipend or COLA provided.
  • Actual allowable moving expenses may be reimbursed up to $2,500 for new hires; internal promotions or lateral transfers check current policy 

Benefits:
The State of Utah offers eligible employees a variety of benefits including medical, dental, life and disability insurance, as well as a comprehensive leave program. Please click the following link for a detailed information page: Benefits. To access a Total Compensation Calculator in Excel format click HERE.

FMLA General Notice: 
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01
Your resume and work history must validate your answers on this application. If not, you may be disqualified or receive a lower overall score eliminating you from consideration. "See resume" is not an acceptable response. You must provide adequate and enough detailed information in your responses to support your selections.
  • I acknowledge that I have read the statements above.
02
Please indicate which position you would like to be considered for.
  • Native Aquatics Biologist I only
  • Native Aquatics Biologist II only
  • Both positions
03
For new employees (nonstate or seasonal state employees) the starting wage for the position will be between $20.23-$23.51/hr (Native Aquatics Biologist I) and $22.30-$25.95/hr (Native Aquatics Biologist II).
For existing state employees DHRM rules and agency/division policy will determine the starting salary. Periodic COLAs, salary improvement plans, and other opportunities for salary increases may be available. Are you willing to accept this salary?

Applicants selecting "NO" will not be considered or interviewed.

  • Yes
  • No
04
Preference will be given to candidates with a bachelor's degree in a natural resources field. Additional preference will be given to candidates with a master's degree in a wildlife-related natural resources field or other applicable field that is beneficial for the position. Select the highest level of academic education that you've completed.
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Associate's degree
  • Bachelor's degree
  • Master's degree or higher
  • None of the above
05
What was the field of study of your academic education above?
  • Fisheries or aquatic ecology
  • Conservation ecology or management
  • Biology or other natural science
  • Environmental studies
  • Other
  • None of the above
06
If you selected a degree to the previous questions, please indicate your degree/major/area of study (if applicable). If you selected none of the above enter "n/a".
07
How many years of full-time work experience in a wildlife-related natural resources field or other applicable field that is beneficial for the position?
  • No experience
  • Less than 1 year experience
  • 1 - 2 years experience
  • 3 - 4 years experience
  • 5 - 10 years experience
  • More than 10 years experience
08
Do you have directly related professional work experience in fisheries management, aquatic ecology, conservation or a related field? If yes, please select your years of experience. Ensure this information is included on your resume. Note: experience obtained through education and/or coursework does not count towards professional experience unless it can be clearly demonstrated that it was in addition to your degree/program requirements.

One year is equal to 12 months of work experience even if that year requires multiple calendar years of work to accumulate (i.e. two field seasons lasting six months each total one year of experience).

  • No experience
  • Less than 1 years experience
  • 1 - 2 years experience
  • 3 - 4 years experience
  • 5 - 10 years experience
  • 10 or more years experience
09
From the options below, select your level of proficiency with rowing whitewater rafts.
  • None: no/minimal experience
  • Beginner: proficient at independently operating oar-rigged rafts in Class II whitewater
  • Intermediate: proficient at independently operating oar-rigged rafts in Class III whitewater
  • Advanced: proficient at independently operating oar-rigged rafts in Class IV whitewater
10
From the options below, select your level of proficiency with operating motorized boats.
  • None: no minimal experience
  • Beginner: proficient at operating motorized boats in calm conditions or with supervision
  • Intermediate: proficient at operating motorized boats independently in moderate conditions
  • Advanced: proficient at operating motorized boats independently in extreme conditions
11
Select the fisheries sampling techniques with which you are proficient:

Select all that apply

  • None: no experience, training and supervision needed
  • Raft and boat-mounted electrofishing
  • Trapping and netting (i.e. trammel, gill, light traps)
  • Seining
  • PIT-tagging
  • Handling ESA listed species
  • Identification of Upper Colorado River Basin fishes in various life stages
12
From the options below, select the number of years of experience you have analyzing project data, drafting technical reports, and disseminating results at professional meetings and conferences.
  • No experience
  • Less than 1 year experience
  • 1 - 2 years experience
  • 3 - 4 years experience
  • 5 - 10 years experience
  • 10 or more years experience
13
Select the data collection and analysis techniques with which you are proficient:

Select all that apply

  • No experience
  • Digital data collection (i.e. Juniper Systems, DataPlus)
  • Data management (i.e. QAQC, STReaMs database)
  • Statistical programming and computing (i.e. Program R)
  • Population estimation and modeling (i.e. Program MARK)
  • Spatial analysis and mapping (i.e. ArcGIS)
14
Select your proficiency reporting and presenting scientific data:

Select all that apply

  • No experience
  • Technical scientific writing
  • Annual and programmatic reports
  • Peer-reviewed publications
  • Oral dissemination of technical information to public
  • Oral presentation of findings to experts, technical groups, and decision-makers
15
From the options below, select the number of years of experience you have supervising employees and teams. Note: seasonal technician positions and/or temporary internships do not count towards full-time professional experience unless it can be clearly demonstrated that a crew leadership role was a main responsibility.
  • No experience
  • Less than 1 year experience
  • 1 - 2 years experience
  • 3 - 4 years experience
  • 5 - 10 years experience
  • 10 or more years
16
This is a physically demanding position (e.g., rowing heavy rafts in large rivers, lifting heavy gear on uneven surfaces) where you will be required to work and camp in remote locations in inclement weather for up to 10 days at a time and up to 80 days a year.
Are you willing and able to perform field work in these conditions?
  • Yes
  • No
17
Please indicate how you heard about this specific job posting.
  • State of Utah job site (www.governmentjobs.com/careers/utah)
  • Referred by a Friend or Family
  • Indeed
  • Other External Job Board or Site
  • LinkedIn
  • Social Media (Facebook, Twitter, etc.)
  • DWS job website (www.jobs.utah.gov)
  • Advertisement (Digital Ad, Billboard, Print, etc)
  • Professional Network (Association, Membership, Work Colleague)
  • University Network (Handshake, School Job Board, Career Center, etc)
  • Contacted by a Recruiter
  • Career or Job Fair
  • Internship
  • Interviewed for different position
  • Internal communications (Agency/Division, etc)
  • Other (not listed above)

Required Question

Agency
State of Utah
Address
4315 S. 2700 W., Suite 2100

Taylorsville, Utah, 84129